The decorations were hung in mass and the mariachi music tingled students ears as they took time to enjoy a drink at the Pub Wednesday afternoon in celebration of Cinco de Mayo.

The holiday commemorates the victory of the Mexicans over the French Army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 and not Mexico’s Independence, which is observed Sept. 16.

Since the Pub is located in SF State’s Student Center, it gave students a chance to relax and enjoy the holiday in between classes or get an early start on the evening.

Senior Jessica Norm said because of her heavy work load she would not be able to go out to celebrate, so she was thankful she could take some time in between her classes, which lasts until 10 p.m., to partake in the celebration if only for an hour.

"With all the decorations hung, the Pub really looks great," she said. "It’s a great way form me to escape from a long busy day."

Todd Singer, a 22 year-old engineering student, said he went down to Mexico for spring break and that the decorations really helped to give the Pub a cantina feel.

"It’s fantastic," he said. "I came to the Pub this afternoon not knowing what to expect but am pleasantly surprised at the transformation of the Pub."

While the handful of students hung out and talked, the Pub Manager Ferras Jweinat was preparing tubs of ice cold Mexican cervazas, which were on special all day. He said each year the celebration is more successful than expected, and although a lot of students make their way to the Pub, the scene always has been mellow.

In between prepping the Pub for the evening, serving beer and food, and striking up a friendly conversation with a customer, Jweinat helped the Golden Brands delivery guys, who were sent out to decorate bars and Mexican restaurants.

"Today we didn’t do any deliveries were just mostly going out and decorating, putting banners and balloons up in time for everybody’s parties they are having tonight," Manfred Cortez said.