Cinco de Mayo celebrates the May 5, 1862 victory of Mexicans over French invaders and is celebrated by people all over the world. Ultimately, it is a celebration of Mexican pride! And everyone loves the day, kids and adults alike.

Are you considering planning your own Mexican fiesta with your nieces and nephews? There are many ways to bring the day alive for your family.

1. Decorate with the colors of the Mexican flag: white, green, and red. Blow up balloons, hang streamers, and buy tableware in these vibrant colors. Partyware and decorations can be had conveniently (order and delivered to your door), which I love. No overspending at the local party store!

2. Add bunches of bright-colored flowers (tissue paper flowers work well), sombreros, piñatas, and maracas for additional festive touches.

3. The party will certainly revolve around wonderful Mexican food, including tacos, fajitas, burritos, guacamole/salsa with nacho chips, and fried bananas. Don’t forget fruity drinks! www.FamilyFun.com has wonderful recipes for this celebration.

4. Have the kids break a traditional piñata for fun!

5. Wear sombreros, play Mexican music, and encourage everyone to dance!

6. Have a taste-test for the kids using different Mexican ingredients, including lime juice, salsa, chopped tomatoes, cilantro, beans, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

7. Make bean bracelets.

8. Make Mexican maracas.

9. Top your festivities off with a wonderful dessert: sombrero cookies.

Enjoy your fiesta! Olé!

Photo: Kittikun Atsawintarangkul
Published: April 30, 2013