The origin of the Piñata actually comes from old China in the celebrations of New Years :) and its original form was represented by animal shapes. Then the Pinata traveled to Italy and then to Mexico with the discovery of America. The Catholic Priests and Families from Spain brought the Pinata.
In Mesoamerica also natives had similar traditions they would hide in clay containers. candies made of fruits they would decorate them with colorful feathers and ribbons in honor of the God Huitzilopochtli.
The actual STAR form of the Piñata arrived in XVI in Mexico City, the Catholic Priests started to
celebrate Christmas Masses, it was used to bring joy to the people of the New World, and the natives that were converting to Christians specially children who would enjoy hitting the Piñata and run to get some delicious peanut and coconut candies :)
A stick was used to hit the Pinata. The celebraion of baby Jesus was all joy! Normally, there is always a Piñata in a Mexican Family Home at Christmas Time, Posadas reunions and chants dedicated to Christ, hope you can enjoy and share a nice decorated Piñata that you can make with your kids!
Merry Christmas! Feliz navidad!
Noel.
Lucy Campbell Diaz
Love and Light ( Yoga Flow/Art) Kids Therapy.