Instead of grabbing your keys and heading to the bar, have your own Cinco de Mayo bash. You get to have your favorite foods and drinks and there is no cover charge. Grab your most colorful clothes, throw on some salsa music, and start to plan your party. The best part about all this is you are in charge. The party is in the best of hands.

Plan your menu carefully. Delegate dishes to friends and family if you wish so you do not have to prepare it all yourself. Catering may also be an option to think about. Choose some exotic dishes you love like tamales, quesadillas, and individual flans. Set up a taco or a salsa bar. Provide enough beverages for all of your guests. If you are providing alcoholic drinks, a nice Mexican beer or tequila may be a good choice. Do not forget a non-alcoholic option for those who choose not to imbibe. Horchata and agua fresco are refreshing Mexican beverages suitable for any age.

Do not forget the decorations! They set the mood when your guests first walk in. Lots of party stores carry decorations for Cinco de Mayo if you want to go all out. You can get themed plates and banners; hang some chili pepper lights to create a festive atmosphere. If you are on a budget, make your own decorations. Tissue paper flowers, piatas, and maracas are fun for the whole family to make. Streamers in the color of the Mexican flag are an inexpensive, yet fun option.

Prepare your guest list and send out your invitations early enough so your friends can plan on attending. Ask that they RSVP so you have an accurate count for food and beverages.

Pick out some festive Mexican music to play during the party. Mexico has some beautiful folk music and who does not feel like having a good time when they listen to a mariachi band? Dancing is a great way for your guests to entertain themselves during your party.

If you are having a family party and there will be children present, you may want to plan some fun games. Kids enjoy piatas, pin the tail on the donkey (or burro) and other fun games. If you want to plan ahead, put together a scavenger hunt and pair up kids with adults.

Once you host one, you will discover how fun Cinco de Mayo parties can be. You may decide to make it an annual event. Take the time to really plan a great party and you will not be disappointed. Remember, it is not hard to throw a great party.

Once the partygoers are gone, you can gauge how the party went for all of your guests and yourself. Did it look like people were having a good time? How did you enjoy it? Would you do it again? The true test is: did the guest ask when the next party will be?