Traditionally, the piñata game is played as the highlight of a party – at both children's and adult's parties. It is often used to replace more traditional games such as Pin the Tail on the Donkey or Pass the Parcel as the main event of the party.

The piñata can be filled with nearly anything, though small, fairly light, non-breakable items such as sweets and small toys are best. The piñata should be sufficiently filled that everyone taking part in the game gets at least a couple of goodies.

The piñata should be filled with the goodies before guests arrive at the party so that the treats inside will be a surprise for everyone. To fill the piñata locate the door hidden somewhere under the tissue paper decoration. The door is usually marked with a sticker that reads 'To Open Press Here', and that area will give with gentle pressure. Elusive doors may require the use of scissors or a sharp knife to create an opening by cutting a 'U' shape and pulling the flap up2.

During the party (before the game) the filled piñata can serve as a decorative table centrepiece, especially for a themed party, later taking it to the designated game-playing area for busting.

To suspend the piñata use a strong length of rope or washing line cord to attach to the reinforced loop on the piñata. Select somewhere to hang your piñata, somewhere outdoors is recommended. A branch of a tree, a basketball or netball hoop or a taut washing line all work well. Two adults each holding the end of a long rope taut with the piñata hanging in the middle might work for younger children. Do not hang a piñata from a light fixture (indoors or outdoors) or from any electrical wiring.

Playing the Game

While there are several variations on playing the game, outlined here is the most basic version. The rules can be tailored to suit the age and temperament of the guests. The main thing is to have fun!

Piñata games should be played under adult supervision at all times! Even when it's adults playing the game.

•Line up all the players starting with the smallest to the tallest. Traditionally, children over three years old are blindfolded but younger children usually won't need to be.

•Spin the 'basher' around a few times, give them the piñata-busting stick3 and set them in the direction of the piñata to hit it.

•Onlookers can shout encouragement to the basher, helping to guide them towards (or away from) the piñata.

•Allow each person to hit the piñata at least a couple of times before you move on to the next basher.

•For safety reasons, make sure that while someone is hitting the piñata everyone else is kept well away, a 15-feet radius is recommended. Also ensure that the basher has completely stopped hitting the piñata before you allow anyone to go and grab the goodies spilled on floor.

•To make the game more fun, the piñata can be swung up and down, and other guests encouraged to misdirect the piñata basher4.

•Make sure that everyone gets some sweets and treats at the end of the game to avoid tantrums and tears.