181 BEST Fun Facts Cinco de Mayo (For Kids)
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Are you looking for fun and interesting facts to help your kids learn about Cinco de Mayo?
Look no further!
This post provides 181 of the best fun facts about Cinco de Mayo that are perfect for kids.
From traditional Mexican culture, to delicious food dishes, to popular activities - this list has it all!
It's the perfect way to get your children interested in learning more about this important holiday.
With these fun facts, you won't have any trouble finding something new and exciting to share with them during your upcoming celebration.
So take a look at our list of interesting facts - they'll make planning for Cinco de Mayo much easier and less stressful!
1. Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that celebrates the victory of the Mexican army over the French in 1862 at The Battle of Puebla.
2. It is celebrated annually on May 5th and usually includes lots of decorations, music, food, and dancing.
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3. In Mexico it’s not widely celebrated - mainly just in Puebla where the battle took place - but in many cities across America there are huge parades and celebrations for this special day!
4. A popular food dish served during Cinco de Mayo is tacos – made with corn or flour tortillas filled with various meats like beef, chicken or pork and topped off with lettuce, onion, cheese & tomatoes (yum!)
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5. An interesting fact about tacos is that their origin dates back to pre-Hispanic times when they were called “tlahco” which means “half” as they were traditionally eaten folded into halves so you could easily fit them into one hand while working!
6. Another popular dish served during Cinco de Mayo are enchiladas – rolled up tortillas stuffed with meat or veggies and then covered in sauce! Yummy!!
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7. May 5th is also the Mexican Army’s Day of Honor which commemorates all those who have served in the military and fought for their country.
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8. Cinco de Mayo is sometimes called “El Día de la Batalla de Puebla”, which means “The Day of the Battle of Puebla”.
9. The colors of the Mexican flag are red, white & green and they represent independence, religion and unity respectively!
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10. Many towns in Mexico celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a parade featuring traditional folk dances such as La Danza de los Viejitos (the old man dance) or El Jarabe Tapatío (the Mexican Hat Dance).
11. Playing the traditional game of lotería (similar to bingo) is also a popular way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo!
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12. In some cities, a pinata is hung up for kids to play with - this is especially common in Hispanic communities because it’s believed the breaking of the pinata releases all your wishes and dreams!
13. The Conquistadors were Spanish soldiers who conquered many parts of Mexico including Puebla during the 16th century.
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14. In some places they even have special mariachi bands that come out to play traditional Mexican music throughout the day!
15. A popular drink served during Cinco de Mayo is tequila – made from the blue agave plant and usually served with lime & salt (yum!)
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16. The fifth of May also marks Mexico’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1821, so it’s a double holiday for Mexicans!
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17. Another popular dish served on this day is chile relleno which consists of poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, meat or veggies and then fried in egg batter! Delicious!!
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18. It's believed that the Battle of Puebla was considered a miracle victory as the Mexican army had only 2,000 men while the French had 6,500 – yet they still won!
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19. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in many countries around the world, but it’s particularly popular here in the United States.
20. The traditional Mariachi music that’s played at celebrations has its roots in rural Mexico and dates back to the 19th century!
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21. It's believed that eating Mexican food such as tacos during Cinco de Mayo brings good luck throughout the year!
22. A common tradition for some families on this day is to cook a pot of pozole – a type of soup made with pork or chicken, hominy (dried corn) & spices – which symbolizes unity and family togetherness!
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23. In 1950, President Harry Truman declared May 5th an official holiday honoring Mexicans living in America - today there are more than 50 million people who identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino in the U.S., making them one of the largest minority groups in our country!
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24. Decorating with papel picado – colorful paper cutouts – is another way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo as they represent hope and joyfulness during difficult times like wars or struggles against larger forces (like France).
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25. Have fun painting papel picado (colored paper cutouts)!
26 .Create festive masks out of construction paper for decoration or playtime fun !
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27 .Learn more about Cinco de Mayo by reading books or researching online !
28. Have a dress up day! Kids can dress in traditional Mexican clothing to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
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29. Make your own piñata out of cardboard and paper mache, fill it with candies and have an exciting time trying to break it open!
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30. Learn the words to some traditional Mexican songs and sing along with family and friends!
31. Sing karaoke in Spanish or English, depending on which language your child is more comfortable with!
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32. Visit a local Mexican restaurant for some authentic food that is sure to please the taste buds of kids of all ages!
33. Try making homemade tacos or tamales as part of a special meal for Cinco de Mayo !
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34 .Visit a museum or cultural center dedicated to Mexico’s history, art and culture during the holiday season !
35 .Learn about famous battles from Mexico’s past like The Battle Of Puebla that took place on May 5th 1862 !
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36. Have a cooking contest! Make your own Mexican-style dishes such as enchiladas or sopapillas and see who can make the best one.
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37. Create colorful paper flags to hang up around the house, each one representing a different state in Mexico.
38. Learn how to speak some Spanish words and phrases associated with Cinco de Mayo celebrations, like "Feliz Cinco de Mayo!" or "Viva México!"
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39. Take a virtual tour of some of Mexico's most popular tourist destinations, like Chichen Itza or Teotihuacan!
40. Visit a local botanical garden or park that celebrates Mexican culture and have fun exploring plants, animals and other attractions from Mexico!
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41. Learn about the culture of Mexico by reading stories, exploring art and trying out traditional Mexican recipes.
42. Make your own paper decorations like pinatas or maracas to hang around the house.
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43. Have a Mexican fiesta with family and friends by playing games like "La Loteria" which is similar to bingo but with pictures instead of numbers!
44. Enjoy singing along to traditional Mexican songs in either Spanish or English depending on your child's comfort level!
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45. Create masks out of construction paper for dress up fun or decoration!
46 .Visit a museum dedicated to Mexico’s history, art and culture during Cinco de Mayo season !
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47 .Try making homemade tacos, tamales, enchiladas or sopapillas as part of a special meal for Cinco de Mayo !
48 .Read books about Cinco de Mayo celebrations so that kids can learn more facts about this day in history!
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49 .Design colorful flags representing different states in Mexico and hang them up around the house!
50 .Take an online tour of some of Mexico's most popular tourist destinations - from ancient ruins like Chichen Itza
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51. Participate in a scavenger hunt and search for items that remind you of Mexico like sombreros, Mexican flags, and papel picado (colored paper cutouts).
52. Make paper flowers to decorate the house with or give as gifts to family and friends!
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53. Have a water balloon fight in honor of Cinco de Mayo!
54. Create your own piñata out of cardboard boxes and fill it with tasty treats like candy, chocolates or small toys for an exciting game!
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55. Consider dressing up in traditional Mexican clothing such as fringed skirts, embroidered shirts and colorful sombreros!
56. Have a movie night featuring films about Mexico’s history or culture such as The Book Of Life or Coco!
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57. Learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas or tamales through online videos or cooking classes!
58. Read folktales written by famous authors about Mexico's culture and history - it's fun learning new facts while being entertained too!
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59. Learn about the Cinco de Mayo holiday by playing a trivia game with friends and family!
60. Make traditional Mexican art like papel picado (colored paper cutouts), piñatas or maracas out of materials like construction paper, cardboard boxes or markers!
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61. Listen to traditional Mexican songs in either Spanish or Engli- Enjoy singing along to them!
62. Have a dance-off competition by playing popular Mexican music and showing off your best moves!
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63. Create a collage of pictures that represent Mexico - it could be anything from cities to monuments, plants, animals and more!
64. Visit local shops that sell items related to Cinco de Mayo celebrations such as flags, decorations, clothing and other souvenirs for fun shopping trips around town !
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65 .Take part in an online cooking class where you can learn how to make delicious Mexican dishes from scratch !
66. Have a taco-making contest and see who can make the most creative or delicious tacos!
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67. Learn about the traditional Mexican holiday of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) by making decorations like paper skeletons, sugar skulls and marigold flower arrangements to celebrate!
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68. Make your own piñata out of cardboard boxes, colorful crepe paper and tissue paper for a fun party game!
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69. Try some Mexican dance moves like salsa or merengue by following online tutorials or joining a class near you!
70. Enjoy some classic Mexican sweet treats such as churros, paletas (popsicles), buñuelos (fried dough) or dulce de leche ice cream sundaes for dessert after your Cinco de Mayo feast !
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71. Make a paper-mache piñata and fill it with candy, chocolate or small toys for a fun game.
72. Learn traditional Mexican dances like the salsa or merengue by taking lessons online or in person.
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73. Try baking different kinds of delicious Mexican desserts such as churros, paletas (popsicles), buñuelos (fried dough) and dulce de leche ice cream sundaes!
74. Visit a museum to learn more about Mexico’s history, art and culture during Cinco de Mayo season!
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75. Have a dress up day by wearing traditional Mexican clothing like fringed skirts, embroidered shirts and colorful sombreros!
76. Have a piñata smashing party and see who can break it open the fastest!
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77. Make Mexican flags using colorful paper, markers or paint to show your pride in the culture.
78. Learn how to make traditional Mexican food like tacos, enchiladas or tamales through online videos or cooking classes!
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79. Read stories about Mexico's history and culture written by famous authors for some fun facts while being entertained too!
80. Decorate your home with paper flowers of bright colors for a festive look during Cinco de Mayo season!
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81. Go on a scavenger hunt around town to find items related to Mexico such as sombreros, flags and papel picado (colored paper cutouts)!
82. Participate in an online cooking class where you can learn how to make delicious dishes from scratch using authentic Mexican recipes!
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83. Visit ancient archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza which offer unique insight into Mexico's incredible past!
84. Make a "Fiesta in a Jar" by decorating a jar with colorful paper and filling it with paper cutouts of favorite Mexican items such as flags, sombreros, maracas and piñatas!
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85. Have an "Around the World" party by having each guest bring an item that is either related to Mexico or from another country!
86. Visit local stores that sell traditional Mexican items like flags, decorations and clothing to get ready for your fiesta!
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87. Play games like loteria (Mexican bingo) or charades to add some fun competition during your Cinco de Mayo celebration!
88. Watch movies about Mexico to learn more about its culture and history while being entertained too!
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89. Learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas or tamales by taking cooking classes online or in person!
90. Attend a local parade celebrating Cinco de Mayo where you can see classic cars, floats, dancers and more all dressed up in honor of the holiday !
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91. Find out how to make Mexican paper decorations like papel picado (colored paper cutouts) that you can hang up around your home!
92. Put together a Cinco de Mayo-themed scavenger hunt where kids can find items like flags, sombreros and maracas around the house or outside!
93. Make traditional Mexican dishes from scratch with the help of online tutorials or cooking classes!
94. Dance to Mexican music like salsa or merengue by following online videos or joining a class near you!
95. Play classic party games like loteria (Mexican bingo) and charades for some added fun during your celebration!
96. Learn about Mexico's history and culture by reading stories written by famous authors who are experts on the topic !
97. Create a Cinco de Mayo-themed craft project by making colorful paper flowers or decorations like papel picado (colored paper cutouts).
98. Have a piñata party and let the kids take turns smashing it open to find the candy and other surprises inside!
99. Make Mexican flags using colorful paper, markers or paint to show your pride in the culture.
100. Go on an adventure around town to find items related to Mexico such as sombreros, flags and papel picado (colored paper cutouts)!
101. Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico's Independence Day. Instead, it celebrates the country's victory over France in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
102. The holiday is celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico, where it remains a regional holiday in Puebla.
103. Kids can create their own papel picado, the colorful, intricately designed paper flags, to hang up around the house.
104. Another craft activity for kids is to make their own maracas or piñatas, which they can then fill with candy or small toys.
105. For a fun game, kids can try their hand at lotería, a traditional Mexican bingo game with colorful and festive game cards.
106. Kids can also learn about traditional Mexican dances, such as the Jarabe Tapatío or the Mexican Hat Dance, and practice them with family and friends.
107. Another delicious activity for kids is to make their own salsa and guacamole, using fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, avocado, and cilantro.
108. Kids can learn about Mexico's many indigenous cultures and their artistic traditions, such as weaving, pottery, and beading, and create their own crafts inspired by these traditions.
109. For a more active activity, kids can try their hand at Mexican wrestling, or lucha libre, and design their own colorful masks and costumes for the occasion.
110. Finally, kids can learn about the history and significance of Cinco de Mayo and its continuing importance for Mexican Americans and other communities in the United States.
111. Kids can learn about the importance of traditional Mexican food, such as tamales, enchiladas, and churros, and try making their own versions at home.
112. Children can get creative with face painting, painting their faces with traditional Mexican designs and colors, such as green, red, and white.
113. They can learn about famous Mexican artists, such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, and create their own art inspired by their work.
114. Kids can take part in a fun and educational scavenger hunt to learn about Mexican culture, history, and traditions.
115. They can also have fun with a piñata-themed relay race, where teams race to break open a piñata and collect the candy inside.
116. Kids can learn about the history of Mexican music, from traditional folk songs to contemporary pop and rock, and try their hand at writing and performing their own songs.
117. For a fun science experiment, children can create their own volcano models and learn about the famous Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes in Mexico.
118. Kids can watch traditional Mexican dances and performances online or attend live performances in their community, such as ballet folklórico or mariachi concerts.
119. Children can learn about traditional Mexican games, such as trompo (spin top), balero (cup and ball game), and canicas (marbles), and try them at home or with friends.
120. Finally, kids can practice their Spanish language skills by learning common phrases and vocabulary related to Cinco de Mayo and Mexican culture.
121. Kids can learn about the significance of Mayan and Aztec calendars and make their own paper versions of these ancient calendars.
122. Another craft activity for kids is to make papel mache masks, decorated in colorful and vibrant patterns, and wear them for their own Cinco de Mayo celebration.
123. Children can learn about the importance of animals in Mexican culture, such as jaguars, macaws, and iguanas, and create their own animal masks or puppets.
124. Kids can explore the rich history and architecture of Mexico's ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans and the Aztecs, and create their own replicas of famous structures such as pyramids
or temples.
125. Kids can learn about the history and significance of Mexican flags, including the colors and symbols, and make their own flag designs out of construction paper or fabric.
126. Children can participate in a fun and educational cooking competition, where they can show off their culinary skills by creating their own spin-off dishes of traditional Mexican food.
127. Kids can learn about Mexico's many species of plants and create their own mini-garden of cacti or succulents, which are easy to care for and thrive in dry environments.
128. Children can learn about Mexican folk tales and legends, such as La Llorona or El Chupacabra, and create their own stories inspired by these tales.
129. Kids can learn about the traditional Mexican art of papel amate, or bark paper, and create their own versions of this unique artistic style.
130. Finally, kids can have fun and stay active by participating in traditional Mexican dances, such as the cumbia or the salsa, with family and friends.
131. Children can learn about the history of chocolate and its significance in Mexican culture, and create their own chocolate treats using authentic Mexican recipes.
132. Kids can make their own Mexican-style friendship bracelets or colorful woven wristbands, which can be exchanged with their friends or worn as a fashion accessory.
133. Children can learn about the history and significance of Mexican folk music, such as ranchera and corrido, and try their hand at playing traditional instruments such as the guitar or the accordion.
134. Kids can learn about the cultural significance of piñatas in Mexican celebrations and create their own unique designs using materials like paper, cardboard or balloons.
135. Children can get creative with clay and make their own pottery or figurines inspired by Mexican art, such as the clay figurines from Oaxaca.
136. Kids can learn about Mexican folklore and create their own versions of famous characters like the Sugar Skulls or the Catrina figures.
137. Children can learn about the importance of Mexican textiles and create their own woven or embroidered pieces using authentic Mexican patterns and designs.
138. Kids can participate in a fun and educational game of Lotería or Mexican bingo, which is a highly valued game in Mexican culture.
139. Children can learn about the history of Mexican wrestling, Lucha Libre, and create their own wrestling masks and costumes for a fun and exciting game of "lucha libre" in the backyard.
140. Finally, kids can learn about the importance of family and community in Mexican culture, and participate in traditional celebrations like a Mexican fiesta with food, music, and dancing together with family and friends.
141. Kids can learn about the history of Mexican jewelry and decoration, and create their own jewelry, such as beaded necklaces or bracelets using colorful beads and thread.
142. Children can learn about the traditional Mexican art of Amate Bark Painting and create their own painted artworks using materials like bark paper, paint, and brushes.
143. Kids can create their own instruments, such as maracas or guiros, from materials around the house, and then create their own musical compositions.
144. Children can learn about the different types of Mexican cheese and how they're used in traditional Mexican cuisine, and create their own cheesy recipes to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
145. Kids can learn about the significance of the Day of the Dead, which takes place on November 1st and 2nd in Mexico, and create their own sugar skulls from materials like sugar and icing.
146. Children can learn about the history and significance of Mexican pottery and create their own clay artworks inspired by traditional Mexican designs, such as Talavera pottery.
147. Kids can make their own homemade tortillas using authentic Mexican recipes, and use them in their own versions of traditional Mexican foods like tacos or enchiladas.
148. Children can learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife found in Mexico, such as the Monarch butterfly or the jaguar, and create their own sculptures or drawings.
149. Kids can learn about the famous Mexican artist, Luis Barragán, and create their own architectural designs inspired by his unique and colorful style.
150. Finally, children can learn about the importance of giving back to their community and help organize or participate in a fundraiser or charity event to help support Mexican American communities.
151. Kids can learn about the history and significance of Mexican wrestling, Lucha Libre, and create their own wrestling masks and costumes for a fun and exciting game of "Lucha Libre" in the backyard.
152. Children can participate in a fun and educational cultural exchange by learning about Mexican culture and sharing their own culture with their Mexican pen pals.
153. Kids can learn about and try their hand at creating their own Mexican street art, such as graffiti or murals, using materials like spray paint, stencils, and markers.
154. Children can learn about the traditional Mexican technique of embroidery, and create their own embroidered artworks using fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk.
155. Kids can get involved in a community service project, such as cleaning up a local park, to celebrate and give back to their community on Cinco de Mayo.
156. Children can learn about the history of Mexican architecture and create their own miniature models using materials like cardboard, paper, or Legos.
157. Kids can celebrate Cinco de Mayo by creating their own photo booth, complete with traditional Mexican props like sombreros, maracas, and mustaches.
158. Children can learn about the importance of the Mexican Revolution and create their own illustrated timelines of key events and figures.
159. Kids can get creative with clay or Play-Doh and make their own Day of the Dead sculptures or figurines.
160. Finally, children can practice their Spanish language skills by participating in Cinco de Mayo-themed language games and activities, such as word searches or "Mad Libs" style games.
161. Kids can learn about the traditional Mexican art of Huichol beading and create their own beaded artworks using colorful beads and thread to honor Cinco de Mayo.
162. Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday celebrated on May 5th every year.
163. It celebrates the victory of the Mexican army over the French in a battle in 1862.
164. People celebrate this day by wearing traditional clothing, eating Mexican food and playing music.
165. Families also often decorate their homes with flags, banners and balloons to show their pride in Mexico's history and culture!
166. Kids can make paper decorations such as pinatas or maracas to hang up around the house for decoration!
167. A popular game that kids play is called "La Loteria," which is similar to bingo but using pictures instead of numbers!
168. Children can also put on a traditional dance performance for family and friends celebrating Cinco de Mayo together!
169. Kids can have fun creating arts and crafts projects like painting papel picado (colored paper cutouts) or making festive masks out of construction paper!
170. Lastly, kids can learn about Mexico’s rich history by reading books about Cinco de Mayo or doing research online!
171. Kids can make their own sombrero, a traditional Mexican hat, out of craft materials such as paper plates and construction paper!
172. Another activity kids can do is to make Mexican-style jewelry with colorful beads and ribbons!
173. Kids can enjoy playing Mexican folk music on instruments like the guitar or even just using an empty glass bottle for a makeshift maraca!
174. Children can also learn how to cook some delicious Mexican dishes such as tacos or quesadillas with the help of an adult!
175. Lastly, kids can explore Mexico's culture by reading folktales from popular authors like Rudolfo Anaya and Juan Rulfo!
176. Kids can make their own paper decorations, like pinatas or maracas, to hang up around the house.
177. Have fun playing a game called "La Loteria," which is like bingo but with pictures instead of numbers!
178. Learn how to dance traditional Mexican dances such as "La Raspa".
180 Make jewelry out of colorful beads and ribbons for decoration!
181. Play Mexican folk music on instruments or even just an empty glass bottle!
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