By Julia Hennessey
About Pinatas
Pinatas are made from paper mache and covered with brightly colored tissue paper. Commonly, they are used at parties to hold treats or other party favors. The pinata is hung from a branch or the ceiling and, one at a time, blindfolded guests attempt to hit the pinata. Once the pinata bursts open, treats fall out and partygoers collect the goodies.
Origin
Marco Polo may have discovered the first pinatas in China. These pinatas were made in the form of cows, oxen and buffalo, and filled with seed. At new year celebrations, they were decorated in the year's color and hit to spill the seeds. The husk was then burned for good luck.
Pinatas in Europe
Pinatas arrived in Europe in the 14th century and were used to celebrate the first Sunday of Lent in Italy and Spain.
Symbolism
Because pinatas were used in religious celebrations, the body of the pinata came to signify the devil, papered in bright colors to attract unwitting people. Sometimes pinatas were covered in seven cones that represented the seven deadly sins. The blindfolded person hitting the pinata represents the blind faith in God needed to defeat unseen evil forces.
Appearance
The shape and size of pinatas are only limited by the imagination. Though traditionally pinatas were star-shaped, today they can be made to look like cartoon characters, rockets, fruit and even political figures.
Filling
Pinatas can be filled with any type of small treat, the most popular items being fruit and wrapped candy. "Traps" are pinatas that are filled with flour, confetti or flowery water.
About the Author:
Julia Hennessey has been a professional writer and editor since 2003. Her work can be found in the "Paralegal Times" magazine and the "New U" newspaper. She lives in California and her interests include careers, people and music. She graduated from the University of California with a degree in literature.
Photo Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
