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Cinco de What?

A playful fifth birthday party.

Yes, we know the actual meaning of the holiday Cinco de Mayo, but we could not help ourselves. For this sweet girl’s fifth birthday, we mixed it up a bit. The “Cinco de Carma” celebration was a Mexican-inspired family birthday dinner, complete with flower crowns for the girls and a piñata.

The handmade invitation set the tone for the event—playful, wacky, and oh so fun. Moms often ask, “How do you get your kids on board with your party themes? My girls are obsessed with Elsa and Ana. Or, all we talk about is Thomas the Train.”

The thing is that kids get excited about what their families are excited about. Have a creative idea for a party? Talk it up! Start crafting. Sketch some ideas. You’ll find that the enthusiasm is contagious, and soon enough the kids will be swept up in the fun.

Handmade invitations topped with mini sombreros (search Etsy for something similar) build excitement for the party—and not just for the guests.
This was a family birthday dinner, outdoors on a hot summer day. We went all out with Mexican fabrics and a few dozen handmade cardboard cacti.
Ribbons are always a great addition to a party scene, and a great way to create an outdoor “room” feel. They are magical, especially if there is a breeze.
Appetizers were fresh and easy…watermelon, jicama, and Tajin, Mexican Street Corn (as a dip) – recipe from Damn Delicious, and various salsas.
The girls loved their flower crowns, made with plastic headbands, oversized flowers, and lots of hot glue.
We enjoyed a Mexican-inspired dinner al fresco.
And wrapped up the party with a cactus piñata. No peeking!