Piñatas! Forever Stamps, 2023 Booklet – Celebration Cards and Party Invitations

The star and donkey are the most popular piñata shapes in Mexico, introduced in the 1500s by Spanish missionaries. These missionaries used piñatas to connect with the locals, incorporating shapes representing aspects of the Nativity. The star symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem and the seven deadly sins, while the donkey represents the burro Mary rode to the manger.

Early piñatas were clay pots adorned with colorful feathers and paper, filled with fruit and sugar cane. Over time, cardboard and papier-mâché replaced clay pots. Today, most piñatas are filled with candy but can include toys, fruit, or other items.

Since 2006, Mexico’s Museum of Folk Art has hosted an annual piñata contest celebrating their history and artistry. The museum also conducts piñata workshops and features piñatas in its permanent collections.