Birthdays are a time for friends and family to come together to celebrate the individual’s life. Presents are usually bestowed on the person by their guests, a special toast or speech is often made by the celebrant themselves, and a cake is typically served for dessert. A number of different decorations and themes can be used to enhance the theme of a party.
Depending on the culture, some other common birthday activities include dancing, eating a variety of foods, and singing. Many people, especially those in the Western world, sing the traditional birthday song (often accompanied by a lit candle) on their big day. The song is normally sung to the individual in the presence of their friends and family, who are encouraged to join in. In the past, some parties may have included a pinata or other form of entertainment, such as a magician or clown.
Some people choose to skip the traditional party and spend their birthday giving back to the community by volunteering at a local charity. Others choose to spend their big day taking a trip, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a road trip to a nearby city.
If you’re not the type to volunteer, you can still give back on your birthday by donating to a cause that is meaningful to you. Whether it’s feeding the hungry at a soup kitchen or helping to clean up the beaches, you can make a difference on your birthday and feel great doing it.
Another way to make your birthday special is by treating yourself to something you’ve been craving. Whether it’s that divine-smelling perfume you’ve been eyeing or a first edition of your favorite book, buying yourself something you really want is a great way to celebrate your big day.
You can also make your birthday special by planning a special outing with friends and/or family. Some ideas for a fun outing include:
Go to a comedy show. Whether you’re celebrating with your significant other or a group of pals, a night of comedy is sure to bring on the laughs. Plus, many theaters and restaurants offer discounts on tickets to live performances on your birthday. For example, AMC offers a free popcorn if you buy a ticket through their rewards program and Baskin Robbins gives you a free scoop of ice cream if you join their club.
Take a class. Whether it’s a dance class, cooking class, or some other activity that you’ve always wanted to try, a class is a great way to experience something new. Plus, you’ll walk away with a new skill to add to your resume.
If food is your thing, plan a culinary adventure where you visit different restaurants to try their signature dishes. Or, if you’re looking for an unforgettable birthday treat, go on a NYC limousine tour that will allow you to see top local attractions while sipping champagne.