Sunshine, vibrant colors, and a love of all things festive. Latin countries are known for celebrations of all kinds. And who could blame them? Good food, friends, and music make for unforgettable parties. In fact, the rest of the world is beginning to take notice of Latin America’s knack for soirees and wondering how to bring it home. The good news is, it’s quite simple!
Cinco de Mayo celebrations are popping up all over the U.S., and with them come the music, food, and culture that has enraptured the rest of the world. Strolling downtown in any city this time of year, visitors may see countless Papel Picados, or cutout paper flags, being hung across streets, between trees, or indoors over dance spaces.
These whimsical flags are a form of Mexican folk art that can be seen near any fiesta. Made of tissue paper and cut using dies and hammers, the flags are hung to commemorate special occasions, such as wedding, or religious holidays.
Many brides-to-be in the U.S. have caught on to the Mexican Wedding Flags’ ability to transform a space. They are a low-cost decoration that can be hung over a ceremony, in a dance hall, or all over an outdoor space for a whimsical vibe. Some brides prefer to hang all-white flags, while others choose a rainbow of colors for a bright, cheery atmosphere. The magic of Papel Picados is evident when they dance around in the sun as a breeze blows through.
The flags can be ordered from Mexico or handcrafted in the U.S. Brides are also opting for eco-friendly flags made of fabric that can be given away or kept as a keepsake. A few brave brides are even choosing to make them on their own!
Papel Picado’s trademark, creative designs can be added to a wedding invitation in the form of a print or cutout. And because they are so inexpensive, the flags can be incorporated into almost any aspect of a wedding: table decorations, cake icing, and gifts can all use a Papel Picado touch.
So, whether you are planning a wedding, or a party in honor of Cinco de Mayo, hang Papel Picado and remember: ¡Viva la Fiesta!
This post is sponsored by Atlanta, Idaho, wedding and party planners.
Photos courtesy of Sarah Parrott, Mel!ka, and linkogecko via Flickr Creative Commons.
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