Unlike what many people think, Cinco de Mayo—or the fifth of May— does not celebrate the Mexican independence, but commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867).
While not a major holiday in Mexico, the Cinco de Mayo celebration has become a well-known holiday celebrating Mexican culture and tradition. The holiday is particularly celebrated in areas with large Mexican-American populations which every year throw parties featuring Mexican food and music.
The Cinco de Mayo customs consist of parades, mariachi music performances and street festivals in many cities across Mexico and the USA and are very widely held each year.
Lots of individuals hold their own parties for friends and family so home décor is a very important part of this fun and colorful celebration. Including handcrafted pieces from Mexican artisans is a great way to get into the spirit of Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
Food is a big, probably most important piece, of this holiday, so having the proper tableware and accents are vital to creating the proper atmosphere… The UNICEF Marketplace has comprised a wide selection of items made by Mexican artisans that showcase Mexican culture.
Hand-blown glasses and colorful pitchers are a great way to start with the table set up and give a place of honor to your sangria, lemonade or iced tea.
Mexico is well known for their glass work and the artisans in the UNICEF Marketplace have mastered this technique to bring you beautifully crafted pieces that will wow your guests!
Add color and Mexican flair with some of the beautiful handcrafted Talavera-Style Ceramic Covered Serving Plates, handcrafted Talavera platters, and handcrafted Talavera plates.
Go beyond the table and let a Mexican artisan bring you many different décor options that extend your theme throughout the house. You can add different décor touches not only for the ultimate Cinco de Mayo party but for your home.
Easily add décor interest with original wall art like the lively ‘Exotic Nectar in Red,’ which features a brightly colored hummingbird and red flower cut from steel and crafted by hand. Pieces like this can add a splash of color to any room of your home. You could also add a Kokopelli wall art piece (ancient American fertility god and music lover.)
Mexican colorful rugs are famous worldwide and would also make a great addition to your home décor and of course, your Cinco de Mayo party set up. Mix, match, and combine various decorative elements to make the atmosphere of your home as festive as possible!
