Cinco de Mayo Parties for Kids

Posted by Bill Dick on May 24, 2008
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Cinco de Mayo is a great time to have a kid’s party — not only is it a lot of fun, but a great way to teach. This holiday isn’t one made up by the greeting card companies, its a celebration of history. On May fifth in 1862, Mexico and the United States worked together to help Mexico get a victory against the French.

One of the most important aspects of the party is the dcor.

You can’t have ordinary decorations for this party. Add to the festive Mexican atmosphere by having streamers and balloons in the Mexican flag colors. At least one Mexican flag is a must, and the number 5 (in vibrant colors, of course) should be featured about the room.

Any party will be more enjoyable when you add a craft project. Each child could make a sombrero using only paper cups and paper plates. Simply tape the cup to the center of the plate, and the child can decorate it however they see fit. If you’d like, you can provide string, glitter, pom-poms or any other little thing that can be glued or taped on, so each child can create their own unique party hat.

Making Maracas is Easy

Another use of paper cups is to make maracas. All the children need to do is fill one cup with beans or other items that will clack together. Then just tape another cup on top of the first one (with both open ends facing together so that the items can slide between the two cups).

Give It a Mexican Twist

Most children’s party games could easily be turned into a fun Cinco de Mayo game with a little imagination. The ordinary can be turned into the extraordinary with just a few small twists.

As an alternative to Pin the Tail on the Donkey, try making a game with a famous Mexican figure, like Pin the Medal on Benito Juarez (a victorious Mexican general). To give your musical chairs game a Mexican feel, play some Mariachi music as the participants walk around. Similarly, you could incorporate Spanish words into games like charades, or play Pictionary with Mexican terms (like a sombrero or an enchilada.)

Folk Dancers

If you’re looking for something fun to do at a birthday party for children, hire some Mexican folk dancers, who can teach traditional dance steps. For added fun, try to find some skirts for the girls to wear, and hats for the boys. The kids will really enjoy the cultural experience, and learn something from it, too.

Sometimes Simple Is Better

Don’t forget that all the children will remember was the fun that was had, and not how much time and effort was put into creating the fun for them. Don’t make it too difficult, don’t let it stall, and whatever you do, don’t forget about snacks! Then you will have created the perfect Cinco de Mayo celebration for children.

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