Fiesta time!
Today is April 6–do you know what that means?
Less than a month to Cinco de Mayo!
A common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s independence day. It does not.
(That would be Diez y Seis de Septembre, or September 16, 1810, when the people of Dolores responded to Father Hidalgo’s call for Mexico’s indepependence from Spain.)
Rather, Cinco de Mayo marks the date of the Battle of Puebla in 1862. In that encounter, Mexican soldiers, outnumbered two to one, defeated the French army–the strongest army of the time, and one that had not suffered defeat in decades.
The improbable Puebla victory was a trememdous boost to Mexican morale and national unity. Eventually, however, the French won the war, established the Second Mexican Empire and installed Maximilian I as Emperor–for a few years.
Nowadays in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is observed primarily in the state of Puebla. But in Southwestern states like my own Texas, Cinco de Mayo is a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage and culture. Perhaps it’s a bit like St. Patrick’s Day on the East Coast?
In any event, it’s a great day for a fiesta–don’t forget your piñata!
(Click on the image for a separate view of the project. Then click again for a close up.)
The ’Swinging Piñata’ 3×3 note card was created for the 3×3 swap hosted by Ellen (Chipper) on Stampin’ Addicts.
RECIPE – ‘Swinging Piñata’ 3×3 note card
- Ink: Melon Mambo
- Paper: Melon Mambo (textured), Pretty in Pink, Wild Wasabi (smooth and textured), Sweet Stitches DSP
- Stamps: Cumpleaños
- Etc.: Punch (1 3/8″ Circle), Crop-a-Dile, gold eyelet, linen thread, paper snips, Stampin’ Dimensional
- Techniques: fussy cutting
Thanks for the history lesson! To it I’ll add that when I was in Mexico recently we were told that it’s also a time for people to unite in their home town. They usually have several days of church activities culminating in a shared meal at the end. I’m guessing that like all holidays, the exact traditions vary from place to place.
Adorable pinata.
What an adorable card! The piñata looks great with the Sweet Stitches DSP!
You are a wealth of information! Love getting the history lessons that you give! Cute card too!
Love that pinata stamp! Is it almost May already? Hand me a margarita!
Cool card. I love the pinata in contrast to the flowers.
that’s so clever – I like the way you made the pinata swing!
I’ll take Cinco de Mayo over St. Patrick’s Day any time! Green beverages for both, but love the one with the ice cubes and salt a whole lot better! Your pinata card is just adorable!