piñatas

Piñatas are hollow containers traditionally made from clay pots or papier-mâché, decorated with bright tissue or crepe paper. They are filled with candies, small toys, or coins and used in celebratory events, especially in Latin American communities and at children's parties around the world.

Traditional piñatas were clay pots but contemporary versions are typically constructed from paper-mâché or cardboard, with a lightweight frame. The outer surface is covered with multicolored tissue or crepe paper to create a festive look, and the shape ranges from simple spheres to star-shaped seven-point forms and animal or character figures.

During celebrations, participants, often blindfolded, take turns striking the piñata with a stick until it breaks, releasing the contents for all to collect. The practice is commonly associated with Christmas Posadas in Mexico and with birthday parties in the United States and other countries, though variations exist.

Some forms, such as the seven-point star piñata, come from Mexican Catholic practice and are said to symbolize virtues or sins, though symbolism can vary by community.

Modern piñatas are mass-produced for commercial and personal use, including reusable plastic versions; many shops offer ready-to-fill piñata kits. They remain a popular element of festive celebrations and a familiar cultural symbol in many societies.