With or without alcohol, a margarita is always a good way to kick off a Cinco de Mayo fiesta. — Photo by Tara Donne

Impala Margarita

Combine 2 ounces blanco or silver tequila with 4 ounces fresh lime juice, 2 ounces water, and 2 ounces agave nectar (or simple syrup) in a shaker. Shake vigorously with ice and pour into an unsalted glass. Add a handful of frozen strawberries with a few candied ginger slices, or a handful of blackberries with a sprig of rosemary. Tip: To prevent watered-down drinks, freeze lime juice or limeade to use as ice cubes.

Festive Music

A fine fiesta needs music, but mariachi isn't your only choice. Demi Stevens, owner of the tequila-focused restaurant Ortega 120 in Los Angeles, suggests Latin-fusion music from bands like L.A.-based Ozomatli and New York City's Aventura. Though Aventura broke up last year, it has released six albums in the romantic Dominican bachata style, with an R&B and hip-hop flair.

Lotería is sure to be a hit will all ages attending your celebration. — Courtesy of Alex Covarrubias

Great Games

For breaks in the dancing, bring out the colorful Mexican bingo game lotería. You can find it for about $5 online at sites like amazon.com and Stampington & Company.

You may also like: Pancho's original margarita recipe.