Mexican Dinner Party

Hola! Throw a Mexican fiesta filled with food, fun, family and friends! Any time of year is appropriate for a Mexican dinner party, but Cinco de Mayo is a traditional time of year for the event. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican heritage because on May 5, 1862, Mexican soldiers and French soldiers fought in a battle, which was won by Mexico. Celebrate with food, fun, cocktails and, of course, tequila.

Mexican dinner party ideas include:

• Menu: There are tons of Mexican dinner party recipes to consider when inviting guests over for a meal. Consider guests’ preferences when planning the Mexican dinner party menu. Remember that some people crave spicy foods, while others prefer mild. A great way to satisfy multiple taste preferences is to create a taco and burrito buffet for guests. Serve lightly seasoned chicken and meat and offer seasonings on the side for those who like it hot. Be sure to include sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa and black beans. Serve chips and salsa or chips and guacamole dip on the tables.

• Cocktails: The traditional Mexican dinner party cocktail drink is a Margarita. Have a variety of flavors for guests to choose from, such as original, strawberry, watermelon and raspberry. Be prepared to make margaritas either frozen or on the rocks. Serve the margaritas in appropriate margarita style glasses, and add a garnish to the rim. Enjoy!

• Decorations: Decorations add to the excitement of the event. Decorate with bold and bright colors like blue, red, yellow and green. Incorporate these colors into the table cloth, plates, cuts, napkins and cutlery. Put out traditional Mexican pottery for table centerpieces and allow guests to select pieces to bring home with them after the party as a party favor. String colorful and decorative lights around the house and outside so that guests can easily identify the location of the party.

• Activities: Encourage guests to become actively involved in the party by passing out Mexican hats and maracas. Hire a band of mariachis, and entice guests to dance to the music while wearing their Mexican hats and shaking their maracas. Consider hanging a piñata filled with candy to give the kids a thrill!

Collaborate with friends to come up with a variety of fun Mexican party ideas to keep the celebration fun and spicy! Enjoy the fiesta!