IT was an evening of fun and fiesta at Chillitos in St Andrew on Saturday, May 7, as Heineken continued Cinco de Mayo celebrations. The premium brand, known for creating memorable experiences, did not disappoint consumers as it paid homage to Mexican culture and cuisine with a series of events starting May 3, which were hosted at five locations, each unique in its offering. From Holy Smokes to Trotters, Sea Island to Janga’s, patrons enjoyed the inclusivity that has always been part of Jamaican culture.

Spanish nationals from the Mexican Embassy were specially invited by Heineken to the Cinco de Mayo celebrations at the Jamaica Food and Drink Kitchen on Thursday, where they were treated to an evening aptly dubbed La Fiesta. The guests danced the salsa, flamenco, and bolero as other guests watched in appreciation for the grace and beauty of the movements.

Chillitos was the final leg of the festivities, where guests were treated to the food and beer but stayed for the culture and camaraderie. It was a sombrero-wearing kind of evening as fun-seekers were treated to complimentary colourful wide-brimmed straw hats upon entry. Signature Cinco de Mayo concoctions, chief among them guava margaritas served in cute clear pouches, were a hit. The ambiance was quite befitting as the décor was accentuated by coloured lanterns strung in keeping with what one would expect in a similar outdoor Mexican setting.

For Heineken’s Brand Manager Amoye Phillpotts-Brown, the event was more than a celebration but a way to bring cultures together.

“Heineken has always been a part of the big occasions in our consumers’ lives. We are here for the celebrations and for creating unique experiences that mean something. With Cinco de Mayo being one of the largest global celebrations, we had to partake in the festivities. This was an excellent opportunity to showcase what can happen when there is an appreciation of cultures. We amplified a total of five locations across the island, sharing that Heineken spark that brings occasions to life,” she said.

As the night progressed, friends greeted each other and made new acquaintances as they enjoyed the vibe that never waned throughout the evening.

Chillitos’s Front-of-House Supervisor Giovanni Allen said the evening, a major staple in the calendar of events, met and even surpassed their expectations.

“It’s a big celebration that fits into our heritage. It’s a fusion of Jamaican and Mexican culture so it’s quite true to our brand,” he shared.

“We received an even bigger support when Heineken came on board. We were able to extend our offerings and accommodate a lot more people for this year’s event. We look forward to partnering with the brand whenever we can and we extend an invitation to any person who missed this year’s celebration to be a part of the next one,” Allen added.