Cinco de Mayo - Creating New Traditions

Happy Cinco de Mayo! While the origins of this holiday celebrate an important victory for 19th century Mexico over the French, today, Mexican families and others around the world use it as an opportunity to acknowledge the diverse culture of Mexico. Whether you're stuffing tamales, hanging a piñata or singing songs with your family & friends, there's many ways to celebrate on May 5th (or year round), these are a few of our favorites.

Cooking with Kids

Cooking is an important skill that I hope all kids get the chance to learn. It helps them develop healthy eating habits, fine motor skills, creativity and confidence. Getting involved in the cooking process creates a fun and educational experience that will benefit them for years to come.

There's not a more kid-friendly, rewarding, satisfying Mexican treat to make than a tamale. It's perfect for a big groups to all lend a helping hand and will certainly make any celebration one to remember. Watch this video from a New Mexico morning show featuring kids making tamales! And try this vegan tamale recipe from Gordon Ramsey's Master Class.

Making a Piñata

Making a piñata for Cinco de Mayo is another highly rewarding activity because, well, CANDY!, amirite? It's a great way to be creative and use your imagination. The piñata has its origins in Mexico, where it was originally used as a religious object. It's since been transformed into a popular party favor. Try following this video to make your own. I watched it once and decided I was a pro and designed a bell version. Download the template here. Once the piñata is complete, fill it with candy or treats for everyone involved and get whacking! 

Singing Songs

Last, but certainly not least, music. This could be your new favorite version of the song that doesn't end. Similar in style to the popular tune, "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall." Un Elefante Se Balanceaba is a nursery rhyme often sung by parents to help their children sleep but could also be perfect for a family get together, like a helping song for making tamales or assembling a piñata. The song involves a single elephant balancing on a spider web and keeps increasing the count of elephants. This song remains a favorite among Spanish-speaking communities, and its catchy melody and fun counting element make it a beloved classic for children of all ages.

You can find this song and lots of other colorful and easy-to-read music with lyrics, notation, and hand-signs for 12 beloved Spanish kids songs, in Libro de Canciones Infantiles.

By incorporating these activities into your Cinco de Mayo celebrations, you can create lasting memories and pass down cultural traditions to the next generation. Happy Musicing and Happy Cinco de Mayo!