Why Are Pinatas Donkeys?

As mentioned before, the fiesta star pinata stood for the star of Bethlehem, which guided The Three Wise Men and shepherds to Jesus's place of birth, who came to worship the baby and bring him gifts. The donkey pinata stands for the "burro" that the expectant mother rode in her journey to Jerusalem.

What is the symbolic meaning of the pinata?

A traditional Mexican shape for piñatas is a spherical shape with seven conical points symbolizing the seven deadly sins—greed, gluttony, sloth, pride, envy, wrath, and lust. Inside the piñata, however, were tempting sweets and treats, representing the pleasures of life.

What animal is a traditional pinata?

Piñatas may have originated in China, being brought to Italy by Marco Polo when he travelled there in the 13th century. Figures of animals such as cows, oxen or buffaloes were covered with colored paper and adorned with ribbons for the new year.