There's nothing like helping students explore and learn about different cultures! Take a "trip" to Mexico and have a classroom fiesta this year in May for Cinco de Mayo. The children will get to experience all the sights and smells of Mexico. Here are some ideas to kick off a fun, delicious, and colorful celebration in your classroom!
Mexico is a country filled with unique traditions and celebrations. The sights and smells are beautiful and full of color! A classroom fiesta should have these details as well; a picturesque backdrop , traditional serape woven table runner, mini piñata table assortment, fiesta fan decorations, fiesta banner, fiesta fringe garland, and a fiesta fun piñata mylar balloon all help to set the perfect scene.
Fiesta Activities
Students will use Sharpie Markers to color their DIY unfinished fiesta shapes. Feel free to use paint, glitter, and stickers! Shapes include a sombrero, guitar, donkey, and maracas. Make it a little competition and have students vote for the best one! This activity not only supports their creativity but also allows them to practice and use their fine motor skills.
Add a game to your celebration with a sombrero ring toss. It's excellent for improving hand-eye coordination. You can create partner or group competitions for prizes too!
Fiesta Treats
A classroom fiesta wouldn't be complete without some goodies and a piñata! Place treats inside small metal fiesta pails. Sweets will include sombrero lollipops and cactus lollipops. Children can then put their candy inside "fiesta muchas gracias" gift bags.
Fiesta Pastries
"Postres," or pastries, are a must during any fiesta. Let children enjoy the tastes of Mexico with some pan dulce (sweet bread) and empanadas. Top these sweets with some cake toppers for an extra festive touch. Accent the background of your dessert table with some mini piñata decorations and fiesta fan picks.
At the end of the day, announce your winners for the sombrero ring toss and DIY wood shapes decorating. Send them home with favor-filled fiesta cups.
Olé! I hope this serves as inspiration for your own classroom fiesta!