If you are looking for a fun excuse to throw a party, especially after a long drought of officially sanctioned party days, you might want to consider some days that are not widely celebrated in North America, but are popular nonetheless. Each of these events offers some great opportunities for decorating.



Chinese New Year: No one has been celebrating New Year's for longer than the Chinese, and this is reflected in the 15-day-long event. Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to decorate the house for more than two weeks, leading up to the culmination of the holiday, the Lantern Festival. Reds, blacks, and yellows are the big colors of the day. Traditionally, many Chinese families have decorated their houses with flowers and bamboo. Dishes of fruit (oranges and tangerines), and traditional candy trays. You will also want to include a lot of Chinese paper lanterns, a delicate and beautiful addition to the party décor. Dragons are also a part of the holiday, but remember that they are considered sacred so utilize this theme in an educated manner. Noise makers area traditional part of the Lantern Festival, and ward off evil spirits for the New Year, as well as being great party favors.

Cinco de Mayo: Cinco de Mayo offers great opportunities for party decorations. Lots of bright oranges, reds, and yellows are the color scheme for the day, and will add a Latin flavor to your house. Look into getting (or making) a chili pepper wreath to spice things up. Ribbons and streamers should be thick crepe, in the colors of the day. Don't forget to purchase a piñata or three for some extra fun!

Food can actually add to the feeling of great party décor, and the food for Cinco de Mayo illustrates this perfectly. Layered dip, black bean and corn salsa, and three-milk cake all add a splash of color to the well-set table!

St. Patrick's Day: It almost goes without saying, but the theme for the day is green. Buy green balloons and shape them like clover for a great effect. You can also purchase shamrock-shaped balloons and hang them about your house. Hang some Irish flags above the door for good luck, and use a lot of green and white ribbon. Get yourself some St. Patrick's Day paper plates and napkins and your theme is totally set!

For any special occasion, even other than national holidays, throwing a party is a great way to relax with your friends, neighbors or co-workers and socialize. These holidays are great because they are so colorful and full of tradition. Party supplies, that bring your party theme alive will make the event unique and will be something your guests always remember.