Cinco de Mayo Kids Party

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.

The decorations are an important part of any party

You can't have ordinary decorations for this party. Add to the festive Mexican atmosphere by having streamers and balloons in the Mexican flag colors. At least one Mexican flag is a must, and the number 5 (in vibrant colors, of course) should be featured about the room.

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.

Maracas Can Be Fun to Make

Paper cups can also be made to make maracas. The only thing that the kids need to do is fill one cup with any item that will make a clacking noise. Next, tape a second cup to the top of the first cup, making sure the open ends of the cups are touching, so the items can move between the two cups.

Give It a Mexican Twist

Add a Mexican twist to any standard party game for children, and it will be the perfect game for Cinco de Mayo. Using only your imagination and a little color will turn even the most basic children's party game into something fabulous.

As an alternative to Pin the Tail on the Donkey, try making a game with a famous Mexican figure, like Pin the Medal on Benito Juarez (a victorious Mexican general). To give your musical chairs game a Mexican feel, play some Mariachi music as the participants walk around. Similarly, you could incorporate Spanish words into games like charades, or play Pictionary with Mexican terms (like a sombrero or an enchilada.)

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.

Keep It Simple

Remember that the children won't remember all the preparation that went into the party, but they will remember all the fun they had together. To ensure that kids love your Cinco de Mayo celebration, keep things simple, have lots of entertainment, and don't run out of food.