This Holidays

Writen by Gail Leino

Most people think of piñatas as just a fun activity for parties, but the history of the piñata reveals many interesting facts that go beyond the playing of a game, but piñatas certainly can be fun. Many people believe piñatas are Spanish, Mexican, or Latino in origin, but they probably actually originated in China. It is believed that Marco Polo discovered the Chinese making figures of cows, oxen or buffaloes, covered with colored paper, and adorned with harnesses, and trappings in special colors to greet the New Year. When the mandarins hit the figure with sticks of various colors, seeds spilled forth, and were burned. People then gathered the ashes for good luck throughout the year.

In modern times, piñatas are made in all shapes and sizes. They are common at all types of parties, from children's birthday parties, to Cinco de Mayo. They can be made to fit practically any theme, and filled with whatever you wish, from party favors like candies, pens, pencils, stickers, balloons, or whatever items you choose.

Piñatas are also easy to make and can be great as a party activity that guests cannot only make, but take home as their own party favor. It is important that this activity be one of the very first, so the piñatas can dry, before the party is over.

First make a finger paint recipe, which can be doubled or tripled, if necessary.
1/4 Cup cornstarch
2 Cups water
Food coloring

Mix the cornstarch and water in a sauce pan, and cook until thick. Allow it to cool, and add lots of food coloring, to make the paint bright and vivid.

Blow up a good sized balloon, and tie it off securely with a string or ribbon. Tape the ribbon to the table, but leave enough play, so it is easy to move the balloon and cover all sides.

Because finger paints can get messy, a wide, open space away from furniture, walls, or carpeting is best. Put an old, adult long-sleeved button-down shirt on each child, backwards to use as a paint smock. Be sure to cover the area they're painting on with plenty of newspapers or a drop cloth.

Let each child dip paper (butcher paper, or white paper works best, but you can use newspaper, paper bags, or gift wrap too) into the finger paint, and stick it to the balloons in layers, but be sure to leave an opening large enough to put in some goodies. Then take the strings, and tie the balloons to a clothesline, so they can dry. When they are dry, carefully push a pin into the balloon to pop it, add party favors, and stick a final piece of paper over the hole. These piñatas can be taken home as party favors!