A birthday is the anniversary of the day you were born. It’s a special occasion that calls for celebration and a chance to reflect on the past year of life. It’s also a time to make new resolutions and wishes for the year ahead.
The word birthday derives from the Old English byrddaeg, which means “festival of rebirth.” Originally, it referred to a festival of the rebirth of a saint or king, but in the fourth century the Catholic Church decreed that all people should celebrate their birthdays. It’s now one of the most celebrated holidays in the world, and it’s also a great excuse to have a party and eat cake!
While you’re celebrating, send your loved ones a heartfelt birthday message to let them know how much they mean to you. Whether you’re looking for a funny birthday card or a sweet sentiment, we have plenty of ideas to help you say happy birthday to your favorite person.
Whether you’re celebrating with a big crowd or just with your loved ones, we have all the birthday decorations you need to make the occasion one to remember. From bunting banners to selfie frames, you can add a festive flair to any party space. And don’t forget a personalized photo album or birthday calendar that will serve as a year-round reminder of how much they’re loved.
We all love to give gifts, but it’s often the thought that counts more than anything else. There’s nothing better than a heartfelt wish from someone who loves you. That’s why we love to take the opportunity of a birthday to tell our friends and family how much they mean to us.
The first mention of birthday celebrations dates back to ancient Egypt, around 3,000 B.C.E. However, these weren’t birthdays in the sense of a person’s birth; they were coronation dates, marking the pharaoh’s transition into godhood.
While it’s not known how widespread these ceremonies were, there is evidence that they were common for a while. It is believed that they largely remained a practice of upper-class royalty, like the Egyptian pharaohs or American presidents, until the nineteenth century, when they were adopted by the masses.
Many cultures and religions place a larger significance on specific birthdays than others. For example, the Japanese celebrate Coming of Age Day on their 20th birthday, while Jewish boys and girls mark their bar or bat mitzvah on their 12th or 13th. In Brazil, children are congratulated on their Quinceaneras, marking the transition from childhood to young adulthood.