RALEIGH — The Latino population is one of the fastest growing groups in North Carolina and Sunday afternoon a special celebration took place in Raleigh.

Their booming numbers were evident at the State Fairgrounds.. where they celebrated at the first Cinco De Mayo Festival in the Capital City.

With music, entertainment and food adding up to a lot of pleasure, festival organizers said their event was not for Latinos alone -- anyone in the community was invited to join in.

Cinco de Mayo marks Mexican independence, but Mexicans are joined by natives from many other Central and South American countries in hailing the day.

Paula Guzman, a local businesswoman, said many Latinos find North Carolina, and especially the Triangle, attractive due to the many jobs available.