The Hispanic Chamber of Columbus hosted its first-ever 5 de Mayo Run and Fiesta 5K on Sunday morning at Smith Farms in Columbus, drawing an estimated 500 participants to celebrate Cinco de Mayo weekend with a community run, live music, and a post-race fiesta.
The Hispanic Chamber of Columbus kicked off its inaugural Cinco de Mayo Run and Fiesta 5K at 8:30 a.m. at Smith Farms. The chamber is a nonprofit organization in Columbus that works to help support businesses and members of the Hispanic community. It also works to educate and raise awareness for those who want to learn more.
The Hispanic Chamber Columbus invited community members to celebrate Cinco de Mayo weekend with a family-friendly 5K. More than 200 runners registered ahead of the event. Organizers estimated around 500 people ultimately showed up to the event.
The event welcomed runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels. The race also served as a fundraiser for the Hispanic Chamber of Columbus, with proceeds supporting programs that include small business development, workforce training, education initiatives, and community engagement efforts. Participants ran a festive course with music along the route, and a post-race fiesta followed the finish. Registered participants received a commemorative event shirt while supplies lasted, according to race organizers.
Organizer Christian Espinoza described the event’s purpose: “As part of the Hispanic Chamber of Columbus, we’re trying to rescue the uniqueness of the Hispanic community here, all the businesses. We’re trying to help them to be more sustainable so a lot of the other members in the community get to know us.”
Hispanic Chamber of Columbus President Cesar Bravo said the event reflected both the organization’s growth and its broader mission. “We’re about 250 strong so far and we’re growing,” Bravo said. “This brings together not only just one culture, but many cultures, we’re like that bridge in the community. We’re very happy to invite everybody.” Bravo noted the chamber has been in operation for approximately 25 years.
Attendees echoed that sense of inclusion. “It takes a village and I think it’s great to see the colors, the races, just the ethnic backgrounds,” one participant said.
Cinco de Mayo, observed annually on May 5, marks the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The Hispanic Chamber of Columbus has not confirmed whether the 5 de Mayo Run and Fiesta will become an annual event. Community members seeking more information about the Hispanic Chamber of Columbus can visit hccolumbus.com.
Sources
- RacePenguin — “5 de Mayo Run & Fiesta (5K Run/Walk)” event listing, Hispanic Chamber of Columbus, March 11, 2026
- Hispanic Chamber of Columbus — hccolumbus.com
Last Updated: May 3, 2026 at 11:00 ET
Disclaimer: This article is based on information released by Columbus authorities and reputable sources at the time of publication. Details may change as investigations continue.