While this party isn’t as authentic as one that takes place south of the border, the flavorful food, fun spirit, and warm company are exactly what’s called for at a Mexican Fiesta. Invite a crowd, try your hand at the yummy recipes below, then have fun with activities like a homemade piñata, hot chile pepper tasting contest, and a taco shell battle tournament for the ages. Get your cellphones ready because there’s plenty of photo ops coming your way!
Mexican Fiesta Menu
Start the party with Roasted Jalapeño Guacamole with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds.
Next comes delicious Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Grill some scrumptious Cilantro Turkey Burgers with Chipotle Ketchup.
Then finish off the festivities with JJ’s Tequila Treat.
Tips & Activities for Mexican Fiesta Fun
- Craft your own quick and easy homemade piñata in minutes, minus the mess of papier-mâché. Start by threading a loop of twine or yarn through the bottom of a paper bag. Then fill the bag with small toys, noisemakers, and individually wrapped dark chocolate squares. Roll the top and staple it closed, then glue on layers of fringed tissue paper in a rainbow of colors. Hang from a height and whack away!
- What’s a Mexican Fiesta without some heat? Host an adults-only hot pepper tasting contest. Buy a selection of peppers of varying heats and slice them thinly.* We like banana peppers, poblanos, jalapeños, serranos, and habaneros (in order from mildest to hottest). Place the peppers on plates labeled with the letters A through E, and have players taste and try to rank them by heat. Winner gets a Tequila Treat!
- Ready for a taco shell battle? Processed corn tortilla shells are a big no-no for your health, but they work beautifully as ammunition. Move the party outside if you haven’t already, and choose two contestants. Hand each a wooden spoon with a hard taco shell draped over the handle, also known as a Taco Stick. The rules are simple: both players try to break each other’s taco shells without letting theirs crack or fall. No hitting the other player, only their Taco Stick. Last taco shell standing is the winner!
Have a fantástico fiesta! If you try the recipes or party tips, don’t forget to comment below and share your pics on our Facebook page.
*It’s important to handle peppers safely, so wear food prep gloves and avoid touching your face or eyes. Provide contestants with forks for tasting.
