The history of pinatas starts in Europe. Many agree that the origin of the pinata party game originated there in ancient times. Legend has it that it started simply as a painted clay pot decorated with colorful paper and filled with candy treats and coins. Even today, many party-goers in central and southern Mexico are still using the clay pot as opposed to the paper Mache pinata North Americans are used to.
The traditional star-shaped pinata design was a kid party game at early Christmas posadas representing the Star of Bethlehem that guided worshippers in their search for refuge. Today, the star-shaped pinata is a favorite party supply for Mexican fiesta theme parties.
The tradition of the pinata party game spread to the New World and flourished. Although breaking a pinata at a child birthday party is very much a tradition among Hispanics, this fun kid party game has spread throughout the entire United States since the 1960's. It has replaced the game of "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" as the kid party game of choice.
Nowadays pinatas are used at all kind of parties, but especially at birthday parties and Mexican fiesta parties. Today there are pinatas for almost every holiday. Pinatas are also a source of creative party ideas: they are not only popular party games but are used as well as festive party decorations and centerpieces.
Throw a Mexican fiesta party for your next celebration with a "burrito" pinata and matching fiesta party supplies. A great party idea for your fiesta is to teach guests about the history of pinatas. |
