Throwing a Fiesta-Themed Birthday
How to Use a Mexican Fiesta Theme for Your Next Birthday Bash
Jul 4, 2008
Calling a party a fiesta just makes it more fun. Whether you are turning 3 or 30, a Mexican theme is great if you plan age-appropriate activities. For a grown-up celebration, think music and dancing. Tango, anyone? If it is a kid-oriented affair, stick with classics like “Pin the tail on the donkey” and candy-filled piñatas. Colorful decorations and tasty menus complete the party planning and you can make them as simple or as elaborate as your tastes and budget allows. Read on for ideas to create a fiesta birthday party your guests, young or old, will have a hard time leaving.
Easy Fiesta Decorations
When decorating for a Mexican fiesta, you only need to think of two things: traditional Mexican themes and bright colors. You’ll find both of these in party kits many stores sell because a fiesta is such a popular party theme. If you want something more original or less expensive, get creative using these tips as inspiration.
- Let your serving pieces and dishware set the stage. Buy plates, cups, utensils, napkins, and platters in different colors such as red, orange, and yellow. For a kid’s party, these may be all the décor you want to worry about besides the piñata, of course.
- Order individual decorations from a party supply company. You buy only what you need and can pick a consistent pattern for all your supplies, i.e. all chili peppers or fringed sombreros.
- Make your own banners. Find and print a template for a Mexican motif (pepper, cactus, sombrero) you want to infuse throughout the décor. Trace several onto cardstock of your choice, and, after cutting them out, punch holes in the top and string with twine.
Delicious Party Menus
With Mexican food, there is usually something to please even fussy eaters since you have many yummy dishes from which to choose. Let your budget and the ages of partygoers guide your menu planning. Here are two options to try.
- Since kids tend to be most choosy, have a taco bar. They can pick all the ingredients they want whether they go for supreme toppings or cheese-stuffed shells. Bonus: make a game out of creating the biggest or silliest or most whatever kind of taco. Up the ante for adult tastes by serving a tapas bar.
- If you have a smaller or more formal party planned, a sit-down meal is a better choice. You can fix the same recipes—burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas—for all ages. Just keep ingredients simple for the kiddos and try more gourmet flavors for the older set. Even with dishes like these, a tray of tortilla chips and a bowl of salsa set out beforehand is a great appetizer.
- Don't forget dessert. Whip up some sopapillas along with a margarita or two for the adults. Kids will be happy with a cactus-shaped cake or simple cupcakes with brightly colored frosting.
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