It's almost Mayo, which means it's almost Cinco de Mayo! But where to celebrate? For starters, bring a picnic blanket to the city's annual festival, happening in Dolores Park on May 2 from 10 AM–6 PM. Music-filled and alcohol-free, it's a perfect spot for a family-friendly picnic; pick up supplies at the many nearby taquerias and Mexican stores, including Papalote, La Taqueria, La Cumbre, Taqueria Can-Cun and Pancho Villa.
For fun of the more inebriated kind, these spots are always good for a shot: Puerto Alegre, Tres Agave and Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant. Or head to Zeitgeist and pray that the Tamale Lady, Virginia Ramos, stops by to offer a little fuel for your boozin'.
Finally, for a little bit of everything, head to community kitchen La Cocina, where Luis Vazquez (Oakland's Chaac Mool Cafe) will be hosting a Yucatecan-themed event on May 5. Guests will not only eat and celebrate, but also learn to cook a traditional Mayan dinner and properly sip mescal (6:30–8:30 PM; $65 per person; 2948 Folsom St.; click here to purchase tickets).