Piñatas made their way to North America at the beginning of the 14th century thanks to Spanish missionaries. These missionaries used piñatas to attract indigenous people to their ceremonies in hopes of converting them to their Christian faith.
Where does the piñata tradition come from?
Most people believe piñatas are a strictly Mexican tradition, however, the piñata originated in Italy during the Renaissance. In the early part of the 16th century, Italians played a game that involved blindfolding a person and having him or her swing a stick at a clay pot, which was suspended in air.
Is the piñata a Mexican tradition?
In Mexico the breaking of a piñata accompanies almost every festive occasion. I loved making and breaking piñatas before ever traveling to Mexico Experiences there brought home the fact that I was a latecomer to this wonderful and unique tradition.
What is important about the piñata?
The stick for breaking the piñata symbolized virtue, as only good can overcome evil. Once broken, the candies and fruits represented the just reward for keeping faith. Finally the piñata symbolized ‘Caridad’, Charity. With its eventual breaking, everyone shared in the divine blessings and gifts.
What is the meaning of the piñata hanging over the heads?
But the pinata has also been associated with other Christian values. With hope: when it dances on the rope, above the heads of the party guests, everyone turns –looking for the prize- their eyes towards heaven. And with charity: when it is broken, everyone can share the prize.
What does each point on a piñata mean?
The original piñata was shaped like a star with seven points. The points represented the seven deadly sins (lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy and pride) and the bright colors of the piñata symbolize the temptation to fall into these sins.
Are piñatas religious?
Traditionally made of a clay pot filled with fruit, candy or small toys, suspended piñatas are the central component to any Mexican birthday celebration. While most people think of them as fun activities, piñatas go beyond game playing. They have a long, rich, and often religious, history.
