The History of the Piñata

A piñata is a decorated container filled with candy and broken at celebrations. The tradition likely started in China as an ox shape.

The idea reached Europe in the 14th century. Ribbons really elevated the clay pot.

A participant spins around repeatedly during the ritual.

Augustinian monks modified piñatas in 1586. The 7 points represent the 7 deadly sins.

Today artisans use papier-mâché over balloons instead of clay. Balloons are significantly less litigious than clay.

About 400 families in San Juan de la Puerta produce roughly 16,000 piñatas each month.

Copyright holders like Marvel Comics have complained about infringement. Marvel takes intellectual property as seriously as piñatas take candy.

Some piñatas are traps filled with flour, confetti or water. Special baskets called colaciónes prevent hurt feelings.