Piñatas adults can shake a stick at

Meetings & Conventions: Short Cuts August 2000 Strictly for the birds
August 2000
Short Cuts:Piñatas adults can shake a stick at

To celebrate the Final Four men’s college basketball playoffs, sponsor Nike put a new twist on its post-game blowout. The party featured nearly 50 piñatas shaped like basketballs and emblazoned with Nike’s signature swoosh.

Miami-based Liliana Perez Piñata Factory (305-253-1970; www.choicemall.com/pinatasonline) offers traditional piñata shapes like drums and stars, but also will create custom piñatas of a company logo or signature product. Another supplier of custom piñatas is Irvine, Calif.-based Piñata Design (800-975-5597; www.pinatadesign.com), whose clients have included Bacardi, José Cuervo Tequila and the Clinton administration (Piñata Design created a model of the White House).

Piñatas are shipped empty and are stuffed with goodies through an opening in the back. Typical fillings include candy and trinkets; small, customized items can be used for themed events.

MARTHA COOKE