16 Cool Cinco de Mayo Party Ideas for Your Best Celebration Yet
All the food and decoration ideas you've ever wanted.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
When the fifth of May rolls around, everyone knows what that means — it's Cinco de Mayo! While there's a misconception that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day, that's not true. The date actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla, when the Mexican army was victorious over the French Empire in 1862. Today, the day is widely accepted as a moment to celebrate Mexican culture.
If you're throwing a get-together to celebrate, here are all the different wall decorations, fun and colorful desserts, authentic Mexican dishes, and other Cinco de Mayo party ideas that you need to try this year. And while you're at it, brush up on your Cinco de Mayo history and quick Cinco de Mayo facts to impress your friends and family.
Picado Streamers
Nothing lights up a room like some colorful banners inspired by Mexican folk art.
Chunky Guacamole
This quick appetizer is sure to get the party started! A chunky avocado dip like this one is sure to go fast.
San Antonio-Inspired Flower Crown
You don't need to head down to San Antonio for its Fiesta celebration to enjoy a lovely, handmaid flower crown this year.
"Piñata" Balloons
All you need is a little fringe for these festive balloons. Warning: don't swing at these with a bat!
Sweet Potato, Avocado, and Black Bean Tacos
Spicy sweet potatoes instead of ground beef make these tasty tacos vegetarian friendly.
Get the recipe for Sweet Potato, Avocado, and Black Bean Tacos »
Confetti Choco Tacos
Do these count as tacos? Because we wouldn't mind having a plate of these ice cream sandwiches for dinner.
Honeydew Margarita
There's sugar along the rim of this drink (instead of salt) for an extra sweet surprise.
Mexican Grilled Corn
Bring on the cotija cheese! Grilled corn is the perfect finger food (just cut it into smaller pieces for entertaining).
Margarita Macarons
If you're hosting an adults-only party, lime and salt macrons will go perfectly with your margaritas.
DIY Piñatas Cake
Just imagine the looks on your guests' faces when you cut the cake open and all their favorite candies are hiding inside.
Nacho Casserole
Feeding a crowd? You'll have plenty of leftovers with this quick casserole.
DIY Mini Maracas
Decorating Maracas can be a fun craft to do together, or the night before to hand out as party favors.
Taco Cake
Taco Tuesday is starting to look even better thanks to this remix that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Felt Saguaro
Cartoon cacti are actually a super easy last-minute craft — who knew?
Photo Fringe
Thanks to this DIY fringe photo wall (which, might we add, is about as festive as they come), you can definitely up your Instagram game.
Cactus Balloons
With a permanent marker and some hot glue, you can turn three little green balloons into the cutest floating cactus.
7 Simple Steps to Get Your Home Guest-Ready
46 Easy Potluck Ideas to Feed a Hungry Crowd
14 Antique-Inspired Colorful Glassware Sets
60 Fun Graduation Party Ideas
