President Obama’s last Cinco de Mayo in the White House had as special guest the Mexican rock band “Maná,” a band from the 80s that is beloved across Latin America.
"For us, Mexicans tapatios from Guadalajara, it is an honor and a dream to be here playing for Latinos at the White House," said vocalist Fher Olvera. "If you had told me 25 years ago that this would happen I would think I was dreaming, but here we are and here is also the heart of Mexico and the heart of Latinos."
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over French forces at Puebla on May 5, 1862.
"Feliz Cinco de Mayo!" Obama said in Spanish after the concert. "This is one of our best fiestas of the year," he added.
"A round of applause for our amazing artists, Maná. I thought I would go out and play, but decided I better not, better not ruin the party," he said jokingly.
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Prior to the concert it was announced that the menu for the celebration would include typical Mexican dishes, especially dishes from the state of Puebla, prepared by Chef Johnny Hernandez.
Obama's final Cinco de Mayo reception at the White House seemed more a celebration of him.
Obama entered the East Room to chants of "four more years." He responded that the Constitution doesn't allow it and neither would his wife, Michelle.
As he left the room someone shouted, "We miss you already."
Obama talked about rising high school and college graduation rates for Latinos and the 700,000 so-called DREAMers — immigrants who were brought into the country illegally as children — he says have benefited from his policies.
He says his inability to overhaul immigration law is "one of the most frustrating aspects of my presidency."
Based on the Associated Press.