Although originally observed to commemorate the Mexican army’s victory over the French, Cinco de Mayo has become a general celebration of Mexican food and culture. It’s a good reason to gather with friends and family at that perfect time in between spring and summer. But to make it even more special, why not put on your DIY hat and craft a few decorations for the occasion? Since it’s Cinco de Mayo, we’ll give you five ideas to get you started.

1. Colorful Fiesta Flowers

All you need for these crafty creations are scissors, tissue paper and ribbon. Simple, right? Each flower is made up of three different colors, so you can really get creative with your color schemes. Choose to match the colors of the Mexican flag or model your flowers after the bright natural colors of spring! Crafter and blogger extraordinaire Valerie has a helpful guide to tell you where to cut, fold and tie your flowers.

2. Succulent and Cacti Centerpieces

 

This simple splash of decor is a win-win because you use the jalapenos for your cooking and the can becomes a new pot for a cactus or succulent. Camille Styles gave us this idea from her whimsical fiesta post from a few years ago. It adds a distinct desert vibe to the table without taking up too much space — because you’ll probably want most of the room for delicious tacos, right? And that brings us to our next point.

3. Fancy Fish Tacos

 

You didn’t think we could leave a taco recipe off this post did you? Of course we had to include it — food’s the best part! But as long as you’re making tacos, you may as well add an interesting (and healthy) twist by making these chipotle-rubbed salmon tacos. It may not be traditional, but it sure is tasty. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, garnish your tacos with this unbeatable guacamole recipe.

4. Homemade Maracas

 

Amanda over at the Artsy Momma blog thought of a great way to recycle your plastic eggs from Easter into a bonafide music maker for Cinco De Mayo! With some tape, straws, and lentils or rice, you’ve got yourself some craft maracas ready for the shaking. Get the full set of instructions here.

5. Cactus Balloons

 

This fun decoration is equal parts simple and cute. All you really need are green balloons, pink pom poms, a sharpie, hot glue and some string! It’s a great way to greet guests as they enter your home for the fiesta, and they only take about 10 minutes to make. Plus, unlike real cacti, this one can’t prick you.

Here’s wishing you and yours a fun and safe Cinco de Mayo, and remember to wear your sunscreen and drink plenty of water! Let us know how your fiesta goes, and if you try out any of these DIY ideas, tell us about it in the comments!