A piñata is a decorated container, usually made of papier-mâché or cardboard, that's filled with candy and small toys and then hung from a rope or tree branch. At parties, especially birthday celebrations, blindfolded children take turns trying to break it open with a stick or bat while it swings in the air. When someone finally cracks it open, all the treats spill out and everyone rushes to gather them up.

Piñatas are strongly associated with celebrations in Mexico and have become popular at parties in many other places around the world. They come in countless shapes: stars, donkeys, cartoon characters, or anything else you can imagine. The tradition combines anticipation, excitement, and a bit of friendly chaos as kids spin around, swing at empty air, and cheer when the piñata finally bursts.

Making a piñata takes real skill. Layers of paper and paste must dry into a sturdy shell that's strong enough to stay together while hanging, but weak enough to eventually break. The best piñatas make you work for the reward, holding together through several solid hits before finally giving way in a shower of candy.