Anytime I go somewhere, I have to bring back a gift for my daughter. When you travel a lot, souvenirs begin to pile up and you begin to realize that most of it is junk. Don't get me wrong, I am still a sucker for kitschy gifts-- I couldn't resist this Alamo Christmas ornament from San Antonio -- but I try to purchase items that are somewhat regional and will get some use.
While roaming though San Antonio's Market Square during Fiesta, it seemed that everyone was selling these little confetti eggs. Curiosity got the best of me and I asked what they were for. I was told that it is good luck to crack cascarones on the heads of your friends and family during Fiesta. If there is something that I cannot pass up, it is good luck gifts. Needless to say, I bought a dozen. At $2.75, I considered this to be a great deal.
I knew my daughter would go nuts over these confetti eggs, and I was right. Once I brought them home she immediately cracked one on my head. I should have warned her that cracking the egg directly on someones head can hurt, and instead, they should be crunched beforehand.
While cascarones are very popular during Fiesta, the tradition is also seen during Easter and other celebrations.
These confetti eggs proved to be a great souvenir. Since they're disposable, they won't sit and collect dust once the high of receiving them is over. We researched the history of cascarones and plan on saving the rest for Easter. Then, once they're gone, they're done.
To make cascarones: Pierce a hole in the bottom of a fresh egg to remove the yolk. Then, dye eggs color of choice. Once the eggs are dried, fill with confetti. Glue a piece of tissue paper over the hole where yolk was removed. Continue to decorate until ready to use.
Happy Fiesta!
Kasandria
Awww how fun and I must say confetti is a good look for you! 😉
Kas
NLM
I live in San Antonio and agree that cascarones are one of the things that make the place unique. Just FYI, you don't have to carefully pierce the egg, just crack off the very top (make an opening about the size of a quarter) and use the whole egg for cooking. Rinse and let it dry. People do this all year long, and save the hollow shells for Fiesta. Dye or decorate the shells. Put just a little confetti (maybe a teaspoon or two) into the egg, and glue a small square of tissue paper over the hole.
Then try to teach the kids to gently smash them on someone's head, rather than doing their usual karate kid impression.