Cinco de Mayo is the perfect time to throw a fiesta party! Get out the pinatas, sombreros, maracas, chili peppers and let's party!

When planning a Cinco de Mayo celebration, you must first set the stage of the fiesta by decorating your party area in festive Mexican colors, with lots of "south-of-the-border" motifs. This is the fun part, so why not gather a few friends in to help you with the set-up?

A Cinco de Mayo fiesta would not be complete without a Mexican pinata filled with candy and goodies. It should be the focal point of your party, with other decorations complementing it. Pinatas can be purchased at party supply stores or on-line. If you're really crafty and creative, you can make your own pinata.

Mexican blankets, serapes or Mexican print fabrics can be used to drape around sofas, chairs, etc to give your room a Mexican look. Striped fabrics in bright colors can also be used. Table covers can be made by using fabrics with the edges fringed. Props such as sombreros, maracas and guitars can add interest to the party area. Mexicans use tissue paper flowers in their festivities, so incorporate these into your decor also.

To add a festive look to your table, use a large sombrero to hold tortilla chips and dip. When ready to serve, just place the chips around the brim and place a bowl of dip, to the side of the chips. Strings of dried chili peppers, Mexican" theme cardboard cut-outs, and brightly colored confetti can be used to add pizazz to your table.

The Mexican flag is red, green and white, so try using these colors in your decorating when possible. If you have plastic plates, cups and silverware left over from Christmas, they're perfect for your Cinco de Mayo celebration. Other table accessories, such as brightly colored cocktail napkins, plastic glasses and colorful party straws will add a festive look to your table.

Other decorating ideas may include: floral arrangements using gourds, chili peppers and dried flowers; strings of party lights {chili pepper lights are popular}; festive signs written in Spanish or a map of Mexico. With careful planning, some creativity and hard work, your party decor will have an authentic Mexican flair!

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