Are you having a fiesta for Cinco de Mayo? I always intend on doing something really fun for the holiday, and then it comes and goes so quickly that I forget! This year, I’ve begun planning early. I see bright colors, Mexican food and music, hat-making and more in my future. Are you interested in doing something fun and cultural for your family for Cinco de Mayo too? Whether it’s an evening time dinner celebration or an all-day extravaganza, these are some ideas to help you pull it off. (*I might make a commission from qualified purchases you make using my included Amazon links.)
Costumes & Decor
Colors of the Mexican flag (red, green, and white) are smart choices for your décor and costumes, and special outfits and accessories will make your party a hit. Don't purchase any special attire; rather, creatively arrange an ensemble from the pieces you already own.
And what’s a Cinco de Mayo bash without sombreros? Nothing says good times like big hats! Sombreros are fun to wear for all ages, and make for great photos. You can make your own sombreros at home with a hot glue gun, plastic Solo cups, paper plates, and a few colorful embellishments. They're also easy to find at Party City, and while you’re there (or if you're picking up curbside), grab chili pepper necklaces plus colorful paper fans and streamers to spice up your décor.
Set the table with mini maracas, colorful paper ware, and a cactus centerpiece. Mariachi music? Absolutely! Add a candy-filled piñata for everyone to take a swing at, and you’ve got yourself a happy crew!
Tex-Mex for all!
Even if you don’t know your way around a kitchen, Tex-Mex is an easy cuisine to pull together. A taco salad, nachos (melted Velveeta cheese mixed with milk, Rotel, and add ground beef if you’d like), enchiladas (they’re super easy to make!), perhaps some margaritas for the "big kids", and the list goes on. Cinco de Mayo is the perfect day to make your famous homemade guacamole (or if you don’t make your own, pick up the delicious stuff at H-E-B). You might also consider celebrating at one of these Mexican restaurants in The Woodlands.
Activities & Entertainment
Have you heard of the Mexican hat dance? There are variations, but the simplest versions can easily be found with a quick search on YouTube. Try this one by DJ Dancing David – it’s fun, and the kids will catch on in no time.
You’ll also want to dance the "Limbo" (use a broomstick if you must).
To make the celebration count as "school time", take the time to teach the kids what Cinco de Mayo is all about. (It's often mistaken for Mexico's Independence Day). If you're feeling really inclined, find a few Mexican themed e-books or audio books from our library's electronic resources (there are plenty!) and learn more about Mexico and Mexican culture.
For entertainment, queue up a movie such as "Book of Life" or the hilarious oldie but goody "Three Amigos". Add maraca-making to the mix if it can fit into your party schedule.
Culinary Arts
Mexican desserts are delicious and easy to make. Google a highly-rated recipe for homemade churros (we recommend trying this one), or whip up some soft, warm sopapillas to serve with honey.
