Real Estate Innovation

Parties, Kids and Cinco de Mayo - a Great Combination

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.

Don’t forget the decorations for a great party

It’s essential to have great decorations for your party. Try finding lots of streamers and balloons in the colors of the Mexican flag–and incorporate at least one actual flag, while you’re at it. The number five should also be prominently displayed.

A good craft always makes a party more fun. One idea is to make sombreros with paper cups and plates. Show the children how to glue the cup in the middle of the plate, and set out decorations like pom-poms or string that they can use to dress up their hats any way they like.

Make Some Maracas

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).

Make It About Mexico With a Difference

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.

Giving a children’s party a south-of-the-border twist can be simple and fun. Rather than a game of “Pin the Tail on the Donkey”, why not play a game of “Pin the Metal on Benito Juarez, the Mexican resistance leader. Mariachi music makes musical chairs a Mexican experience, and even Pictionary takes a Mexican turn if you use Spanish words. If the children don’t know enough Spanish, acquaint them with Mexican culture by offering tacos to eat, or sombreros to wear.

Learn Some Folk Dancing

Another great activity idea is to bring in Mexican folk dancers that could show the kids how to perform a dance. To create an even more authentic atmosphere, why not provide skirts for the girls and hats for the boys? The dancers will not only provide a good time, but will also teach the children about some aspects of Mexican heritage.

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.