Scottsdale Restaurant Guide

History of the Pinata: Pinatas are centerpieces of birthday parties and other festive and celebratory events. Children try to break open the piñata to enjoy the bounty of candy and other goodies hidden inside. However, the pinata didn't always have its roots in children's entertainment.The pinata is associated with the Latin culture. Yet, historians point to Asia - namely China - as the original point of origin. It is surmised that upon visiting China, famous traveler Marco Polo witnessed the Chinese creating colorful figures of animals covered in paper that were strung up with harnesses. These figures were used in celebrations for the New Year. Polo brought the ideas of these early pinatas to Europe. Europeans linked the pinata with Lenten celebrations. The custom spread to surrounding areas, like Spain, where the Lenten celebration was transformed into a fiesta. The Spanish celebrated with the "Dance of the Pinata." They used a clay container for the pinata called la olla, the Spanish word for pot.The pinata is regarded as a symbol of fun and entertainment. It can be used during the Christmas season or at birthday parties, and is no longer just reserved for the Latin culture; people of all nationalities and backgrounds take turns hitting the pinata!