Patch Picks 5: Top Cinco de Mayo Fiestas in Downtown St. Pete

1.) Vintage Ultra Lounge, 16 2nd Street North: Local music powerhouse Mighty Mongo will be hosting one of the biggest parties, "Cinco de Mongo," to celebrate the release of their first album, "Let's Make Serious Life Decisions." Stilt walkers and a real, live mariachi band will be the opener of what promises to be one of the most exciting events in the area. For a slim cinco dollars, you can enjoy a Cuervo-grade Margarita. Tijuana Flats is hosting a Taco Eating Contest earlier in the evening followed by other live music guests, including 10th Concession and Anchor Altantic. Mighty Mongo hits the stage at 9 p.m. as they play a slew of original hits along with some of their favorite covers. Foolish Pride Tattoos will also be on hand as they put on a Live Aztec Art Exhibition. A $5 donation at the door is suggested as the proceeds will go directly to the Pinellas PBA and the family of fallen officer, David Crawford.

2.) Jannus Live, 200 1st Avenue North: Together with 98 Rock, Jannus Live is hosting a rockin' good time that also happens to be free admission. "Cinco de Drunko" will showcase Canadian rock band, My Darkest Days, along with Danko Jones. Gates to the courtyard open at 5 p.m. sharp, and the crew at Jannus is expecting to hit max capacity fairly quickly. Along with the music, sip on $2.50 Coronas throughout the night. With no tickets necessary, the event is first come, first serve. Don't miss out on this night of hard rock and potent alcohol. The combination could make for your best Cinco de Mayo celebration to date. Jannus' directions for this event are simple: show up, walk in and rock on.

3.) Push Ultra Lounge, 128 3rd Street South: Since last year's first run was massively successful, Push Ultra Lounge is closing down the block of 2nd Avenue South and hosting the 2nd Annual "Cinco de Mayo Block Party." This is the longest running party considering it starts at noon and goes until 3 a.m. Red Mesa Cantina makes up the majority of the first floor of Push, so grab a bite of authentic Mexican cuisine before you get your drink on. Outside, the beverage specials include $5 16 oz. Dos Equis drafts and $5 Margaritas. Indoors, from 5-8 p.m. it's sink or swim Margarita time for only $10. That means all the Margaritas you can stomach for 10 bucks! There will also be Dos Equis bottles on sale for $4, indoors. DJ Benoit is spinning the latest and greatest hits for your musical senses.

4.) Scene Premium Night Club, 211 3rd Street South: What's a good party without some beads? Guys coming through the door receive a beaded necklace to give to the hottest girl throughout the night. At 2 a.m., the female with the most beads will win a free bottle and VIP table. Other pluses to the evening are $3 Coronas and $3 Margaritas. Ladies are 18 and up while guys must be 21. Scene is also taking VIP table reservations in advance of the event, so call 727-269-9345 to insure your spot. Attire is considered to be upscale, so leave the flip flops and Rays caps at home for this one. Doors open at 9:30 p.m.

5.) Bishop Lounge, 260 1st Avenue North: DJ Fresh and the Bishop Lounge are playing hosts to yet another "Certified Fresh" event. Enjoy $2 Coronas and $4 Cuervo Traditional Silver shots and Margaritas all night long. Prizes are up for grabs in the "Pinata Smash Giveaway." A free shot will be awarded to those dressing in their most festive Mexican attire. DJ Fresh, along with his crew of entertainment gurus, will be giving off the perfect party vibe from open 'til close. With two floors, three balconies and an indoor/outdoor bar, there's plenty of room for a fiesta at the Bishop Lounge. For VIP reservations, call 727-564-0938 (ext. 232).