The history of pinatas starts in Europe. Many agree that the origin of the pinata party game originated there in ancient times. Legend has it that it started simply as a painted clay pot decorated with colorful paper and filled with candy treats and coins. Even today, many party-goers in central and southern Mexico are still using the clay pot as opposed to the paper Mache pinata North Americans are used to.

The traditional star-shaped pinata design was a kid party game at early Christmas posadas representing the Star of Bethlehem that guided worshippers in their search for refuge. Today, the star-shaped pinata is a favorite party pinata for Mexican fiesta theme parties.

The tradition of the pinata party game spread to the New World and flourished. Artisans created animal and other pinata designs to delight all guests -children and adults- at every kid party. Although breaking a pinata at a kid party is very much a tradition among Hispanics, this fun kid party game has spread throughout the entire United States since the 1960’s. It has replaced the kid party game of “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” as the party game of choice.

Nowadays pinatas are used at all kinds of parties, but especially at birthday parties and Mexican fiesta parties. However, there are even pinatas for every holiday. Pinatas are also a source of creative party ideas : they are not only popular kids birthday party games but also serve as festive party decorations and centerpieces.

So don't forget to get a pinata for your next party! You can select one matching the party theme and fill it with our discount party supplies. A party idea that never fails is to throw a Mexican fiesta party with a "burrito" pinata and matching fiesta party supplies. And you can delight and teach all guests with the history of pinatas that we told you before!