Rating: 8+

Part of the traditional Mexican birthday celebration, the piñata is a game for the birthday boy or girl to play, and all of the guests to enjoy. A piñata is always made out of papier-mâché, but the style can vary greatly. Sometimes it is made to look like an animal, or a hat, or a birthday cake. Piñatas are always beautifully decorated and stuffed with candy. Any number of players can play.

Hang the piñata from the ceiling, about a foot out of the player's reach. Give the player a stick, blindfold him, and spin him around. The player then has to figure out where the piñata is, and aim his stick in that direction. The player swings at the piñata while the rest of the crowd cheers him on, giving him directions. If he breaks the piñata, the candy comes out, and all of the guests rush to get their share. If not, the next player takes a turn.