Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
  • Holidays
  • Gardening
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Shop
  • Rooms
  • News
  • Beauty & Style
  • Health & Family
  • Pets
  • Local Services

Profile Menu

My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Insider
  • BH&G Magazine Archive
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 7 of the Most Common Perennial Garden Mistakes to Avoid

      Are your plants not looking as lush and colorful as you hoped? Make sure you haven't made any of these missteps. Read More Next
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More Next
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are stoked with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More Next
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays

    This Is Why We Send Paper Valentines on February 14

    The tradition began more than 1,500 years ago.
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • Hanukkah
    • New Year's
    • Halloween
    • Valentine's Day
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
    • Father's Day
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you’re a beginner baker who’s just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We’ll help you set up a baking kit for beginners with 21 essential tools. For those who already own these tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflĆ© dish. Building your essential baking toolbox starts here!
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating

    Pantone Predicts the Bold, Happy Colors You'll See Everywhere in Spring 2021

    If these trendy hues are any indication, brighter days are coming. Here's how to use these stunning shades around your home.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    With so many types of house styles, narrowing the list down to your favorite can be overwhelming. We'll show you the top 10 most popular house styles, including Cape Cod, country French, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, cottage, Mediterranean, ranch, and contemporary. Here's how to tell the differences between each architectural style.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Shop
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • News
  • Beauty & Style

    Beauty & Style

    See All Beauty & Style

    Here's Exactly How to Find Your Perfect Nude Nail Color

    Truth be told, there's no such thing as a universal nude.
    • Anti-Aging
    • Hair
    • Skin Care
    • Makeup
    • Style
    • Nails
  • Health & Family

    Health & Family

    See All Health & Family

    7 Small But Impactful Ways to Fit Self-Care Into Your Day Right Now

    Staying atop of your wellbeing is a must, especially during uncertain, stressful times. These tips will help you make time for self-care for a mental health boost every day.
    • Family Activities
    • Reunions
    • Conditions
    • Parenting Skills
  • Pets

    Pets

    See All Pets

    50 Perfect Calico Cat Names for Your Beautiful Kitty

    Use your pet's unique coat as inspiration on what to call them.
    • Dogs and Puppies
    • Cats
    • Caring for Your Pet
  • Local Services

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Insider
  • BH&G Magazine Archive
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Holidays
  3. Traditions
  4. 17 Easy Ideas for an Outdoor Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Home

17 Easy Ideas for an Outdoor Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Home

By Sarah Martens
Updated February 26, 2021
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Host your own Cinco de Mayo celebration to celebrate Mexican culture! Borrow these ideas for your own high-color, low-stress Cinco de Mayo complete with a few of our favorite authentic Mexican recipes.
Start Slideshow

1 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

On Cinco de Mayo, keep things colorful and casual at home with a Mexican-theme party filled with food, family, and fun. We give you tips for party presentation, along with our best Mexican recipes.

1 of 17

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Festive Decor

These easy Cinco de Mayo decorations bring a touch of color to any outdoor summer night. Line your deck or porch wall with DIY tissue paper poms that provide a bright and festive backdrop for an appetizer or drink station. For an extra festive touch, use the poms to create a DIY photo booth wall!

2 of 17

3 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Floral Centerpieces

Bold blooms are one of our favorite Cinco de Mayo decorations. Place stems of bright flowers and bold cactus plants in old glass jars to set the mood for a Mexican fiesta. Let the party begin!

3 of 17

Advertisement

4 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Adults-Only Bar Table

Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Set up a Cinco de Mayo party bar area with colorful cocktails arranged on a bold tablecloth or against a bright backdrop. Let family members mix their own margaritas or palomas to get the party started—or mix up a big batch of our nonalcoholic Rhubarb Agua Fresca!

4 of 17

5 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Tasty Food Spread

A family-style Cinco de Mayo spread helps keep with the party's casual tone. Offer diners an array of tasty Mexican appetizers like salsas and sauces to try, and bring hot dishes directly from the oven to the table. If you can, prepare salads and appetizers the day before, so you're not scrambling to finish dinner.

5 of 17

6 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Colorful Drinkware

Don't worry about providing different glasses for each kind of drink served—these colorful glasses work for margaritas, cocktails, and nonalcoholic drinks alike! The mismatched floral patterns add a gorgeous pop of color and pair well with plain glasses if you need to supplement a few extras for a large crowd.

6 of 17

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Cinco de Mayo Place Setting

It wouldn't be a Mexican fiesta without a bright and fun place setting. Pair bright plates and napkins with metallic utensils for a burst of color. Using vibrant serving ware means you don't even need a tablecloth—the dishes and linens speak for themselves! And don't worry about matching dishes and napkins; one of our favorite Cinco de Mayo party ideas is mixing and matching the bright colors.

7 of 17

8 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Burnt-Orange Anejo Sour

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

This margarita-whiskey sour combo is a must-have at any Mexican-theme celebration. Our tasty recipe combines dark tequila, orange liqueur, sweet vermouth, and classic orange soda to create a cocktail your guests will be raving about long after the party ends. To get the perfectly garnished look, brûlée orange slices (with a kitchen torch or in the oven) to place directly on the drink's surface.

8 of 17

9 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Shrimp Ceviche Tostada with Fennel and Grapefruit

Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

For an outdoor Cinco de Mayo party, these tasty tostadas—with shrimp, fennel, and grapefruit—are the perfect make-it-yourself option. Lay out the corn tortillas and all the toppings (you'll just need to prep the toppers the vegetables), and let each diner put together their own.

9 of 17

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Make-Ahead Chunky Guacamole

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Green onions, fresh cilantro, and hot pepper sauce make up this coarsely mashed crowd-pleasing Mexican appetizer. Because this guacamole is made with sour cream and lime juice, you can make it a day in advance and it won't brown in the refrigerator, saving you time on party day. Be sure to cover the guacamole with plastic wrap to keep out air that will also cause the avocado mixture to brown.

10 of 17

11 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Spoon Bread-Stuffed Poblanos

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Stuffed peppers topped with roasted corn will be the star of your Cinco de Mayo party food spread. Char the poblanos to make them soft and tender while giving them a smoky flavor that perfectly accents the mild heat of the pepper. This vegetarian dish packs just the right amount of punch.

11 of 17

12 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Pineapple Margaritas

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

A margarita is a must at any Mexican celebration. Try a sparkling margarita (made with a splash of champagne) at your Cinco de Mayo party, or mix up a big batch of classic lime on the rocks.

12 of 17

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Pickled-Jalapeno Fried Chicken

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

When you start planning your Cinco de Mayo party menu, fried chicken is likely not at the top of your list—but it should be. Our jalapeño marinade instantly turns an American classic into a spicy main dish that pairs well with the rest of your Mexican cuisine.

13 of 17

14 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Beef Enchiladas

Credit: Carson Downing
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

It wouldn't be a Mexican fiesta without enchiladas! These beef enchiladas are big on flavor, thanks to green onion, garlic, and jalapeño. For a fresh and fruity kick, top the enchiladas with fresh pico de gallo.

14 of 17

15 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Chocolate Banana Air-Fryer Empanadas with Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Credit: Alison Miksch
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

You're looking at the perfect Mexican party dessert. These hand pies are golden and delicious after just six minutes in your air fryer.

Test Kitchen Tip: Serve this Cinco de Mayo recipe with plenty of homemade whipped cream!

15 of 17

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Tres Leches Strawberry Shortcake

Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Put our delicious tres leches spin on this classic American dessert. To make the cake, pour the classic tres leches milk mixture over a freshly baked shortbread, then top with fresh berries. It's quick, easy, and so tasty!

16 of 17

17 of 17

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Tag Your Drink

Make it easy to remember which glass is yours with this fun Cinco de Mayo party idea. Simply use a zester to initial a lime wedge for each guest's drink.

17 of 17

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Sarah Martens

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook
Trending Videos
Advertisement
Skip slide summaries

Everything in This Slideshow

Advertisement

View All

1 of 17 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
2 of 17 Festive Decor
3 of 17 Floral Centerpieces
4 of 17 Adults-Only Bar Table
5 of 17 Tasty Food Spread
6 of 17 Colorful Drinkware
7 of 17 Cinco de Mayo Place Setting
8 of 17 Burnt-Orange Anejo Sour
9 of 17 Shrimp Ceviche Tostada with Fennel and Grapefruit
10 of 17 Make-Ahead Chunky Guacamole
11 of 17 Spoon Bread-Stuffed Poblanos
12 of 17 Pineapple Margaritas
13 of 17 Pickled-Jalapeno Fried Chicken
14 of 17 Beef Enchiladas
15 of 17 Chocolate Banana Air-Fryer Empanadas with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
16 of 17 Tres Leches Strawberry Shortcake
17 of 17 Tag Your Drink

Share options

Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Login

  • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
  • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
Better Homes & Gardens

Magazines & More

Learn More

  • About Us
  • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
  • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
  • Help
  • Media Kit
  • Content Licensing
  • Sitemap

Connect

Follow Us
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Other Meredith Sites

Other Meredith Sites

  • 4 Your Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Allrecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • All People Quilt this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Insights this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Surveys this link opens in a new tab
  • Cooking Light this link opens in a new tab
  • Daily Paws this link opens in a new tab
  • EatingWell this link opens in a new tab
  • Eat This, Not That this link opens in a new tab
  • Entertainment Weekly this link opens in a new tab
  • Food & Wine this link opens in a new tab
  • Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Hello Giggles this link opens in a new tab
  • Instyle this link opens in a new tab
  • Martha Stewart this link opens in a new tab
  • Midwest Living this link opens in a new tab
  • More this link opens in a new tab
  • MyRecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • MyWedding this link opens in a new tab
  • My Food and Family this link opens in a new tab
  • MyLife this link opens in a new tab
  • Parenting this link opens in a new tab
  • Parents this link opens in a new tab
  • People this link opens in a new tab
  • People en EspaƱol this link opens in a new tab
  • Rachael Ray Magazine this link opens in a new tab
  • Real Simple this link opens in a new tab
  • Ser Padres this link opens in a new tab
  • Shape this link opens in a new tab
  • Siempre Mujer this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living this link opens in a new tab
  • SwearBy this link opens in a new tab
  • Travel & Leisure this link opens in a new tab
BH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

View image

17 Easy Ideas for an Outdoor Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Home
this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.