National Piñata Day is a holiday observed annually on April 18th that encourages everyone to enjoy a common celebratory centerpiece often associated with Mexico. A piñata is a container usually made of papier-mâché or pottery, formed into exciting shapes, decorated, and then filled with candy.

These containers are then broken as part of the celebration festivities to allow the released candy to be scooped up by eager hands. Although piñatas are commonly used at birthday or Christmas parties in Mexico and other countries around the world, they are chock-full of not only candy but also history, which is a big reason why many people may want to observe this holiday.

The History Of National Piñata Day

Currently, people are debating whether piñatas originate from Spanish traditions or actually come from Asian traditions. The Chinese created piñatas in the shape of an ox or cow for hundreds of years. These containers were covered with symbols, given lucky colors, and designed to help produce a favorable climate for the upcoming growing season.

These containers were filled with seeds and then hit with sticks. In the 14th century, the tradition of the piñata arrived in Europe. It quickly became associated with the Christian celebration of Lent. The first Sunday of Lent in Spain would become known as Piñata Sunday.

During the 16th century, the Spanish brought this tradition to Mexico, where it was immediately accepted because there was already a Mesoamerican tradition very similar to it. Over the years, the piñata became associated less with religious holidays and more with secular holidays, although it is used for both even to this day.

As far as the history of this holiday goes, all we can say for sure is that it was invented by Amy Watkins on her blog Cozy Reverie. She created the holiday in 2016 to celebrate this iconic celebratory item. It has been observed annually ever since.

Observing National Piñata Day

A fundamental way of observing this holiday is by making your own piñata or by heading out to the store and buying one. Once that’s done, it’s just a matter of filling it with candy, nuts, or other treats, and then inviting some friends over to bash the heck out of it. That’s all there is to celebrate this holiday. While you’re celebrating, just don’t forget to spread the love for this holiday using the hashtag #NationalPiñataDay online.