Piñata

Break open a piñata!

A piñata is traditionally used at an outdoor party to celebrate a child’s birthday. However, piñatas are becoming more and more popular and are being used for other outdoor get-togethers, like a barbecue event.

Piñatas are colorfully decorated, candy-filled papier-mâché (a.k.a. paper-maché or paper mache) objects, which originated in Latin countries. Along with candy, small toys may be found inside piñatas as well. The middle of the piñata has a loop in which rope or string is threaded through. The piñata is then hung into the air with each end of the rope or string held taut and tied to objects with some height (e.g., tree branches). According to Mexican tradition, children are blindfolded - one-by-one - and each are allowed a turn at hitting the piñata with a stick or baseball bat. The goal is to break open the piñata. Once the piñata is broken, the candy spills onto the ground, and all the children scurry to pick up as many pieces as they can.

Nowadays, you are likely to find a piñata at your local grocery store, especially in the Southwestern region of the U.S.; otherwise, visit a party supply store. Besides buying one, you can custom make your own unique piñata - it’s a fun and easy craft project! Visit your local craft store for art supplies (e.g., Michaels Arts & Crafts).

The following are simple, step-by-step instructions on how to make your own piñata.

How to Make a Piñata