How To: Throw a Cinco De Mayo Party

Ah, spring break, that time of year when students flee their institutions of education and carouse on a beach in Mexico.

While you and your white collar cohorts may not be jetting off to a week of beer and sand, you can still have a fabulous time reminiscent of those sunny Mexican beaches: pull out a few sombreros and learn how to host your own Cinco de Mayo party!

A Mexican Holiday Becomes a Night of Fun

Aptly named, Cinco de Mayo traditionally celebrates Mexico’s victory over French militia at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is mostly celebrated in Puebla, while in the US, it’s a national opportunity to celebrate! So shed your white button-down and grab some Cinco de Mayo costumes; here’s how to throw a fabulous fiesta!

Lights, Pinatas, Action!

Dress your house, backyard, or park for the occasion and bring in some authentic Mexican decorations.

• Pinatas are Cinco de Mayo must-haves; you can easily make one or buy from a party store. Fill them with candy, and they do double time as fun and decor.
• String the house, trees, deck, or picnic shelter with tiny lights; colored lights are reminiscent of vibrant traditional Mexican art.
• Brightly-colored paper lanterns add spice to normal lighting fixtures and look festive simply hanging from ceilings or trees. 

There’s No Fiesta Without a Feast!

Who doesn’t love the delicious spice and mouthwatering aroma of Mexican food? Authentic Mexican food (and some tasty drinks) are must haves  for your Cinco de Mayo party. Whether you choose to break out the cookbooks or call a caterer, here are some great dish additions. Don’t forget the tequila!

• Tamales. A delicious corn-based dough traditionally wrapped in corn husks and boiled, tamales are fairly simple but time consuming. A local Mexican grocer should be able to help you out.
• Chiles Rellenos. Hailing from Puebla, chiles rellenos are peppers stuffed with cheese and meat, which are then battered and fried. These tasty morsels can be found at specialty or Mexican stores.
• Roasted corn. A Mexican street food favorite, roasted corn is easy to make. Skewer freshly shucked corn and grill until golden. Sprinkle with lime and chile powder or serve with mayonnaise and cream for authentic flair. 

Break Out the Maracas

Music is a must-have at a Cinco de Mayo get-together. Dancing is a traditional way to celebrate the holiday: encourage your guests to shake some maracas and join in the fun!

• Set up the speakers and turn up the volume on traditional Mexican music like mariachi, cumbia, and Tejano. Pass out maracas for fun, or teach guests an authentic Mexican dance. An internet video can help you learn the moves.
• Mix in some modern Mexican favorites with the traditional. You can find CDs at music stores or download hits from online.

You have all the ingredients to have a fabulous Mexican fiesta! Just add a crowd of friends and co-workers, some sombreros, and chances are good you’ll have more fun than any of your spring-break counterparts!

Ole!

What will you be doing the fifth of May this year?

Image: Flickr.com/MarkScottAustinTX