In some cultures, birthdays are a special time for family and friends to gather together for a meal and entertainment. In the United States, the tradition usually includes a cake and a singing of the classic birthday song, “Happy Birthday to You.”
People celebrate their birthdays by giving gifts to themselves or others, having a party, or both. Birthday parties can include games such as a pinata, balloon pop, or ring toss, as well as food and drinks. People may sing, dance, or give a toast to the celebrant. A special birthday message or speech by a loved one can also be included.
The most common activity on a birthday is receiving presents. These are often given by a person’s close friends and family members, who may present the gift during a birthday dinner or other celebration. The celebrant is usually wished a happy birthday in some way by the guests present, and often receives a card with personalized wishes from their friends.
If you’re an introvert, spend your birthday relaxing on your own with a good book or movie and some popcorn. Alternatively, go out and treat yourself to an ice cream dessert—whether you’re a macarons or cupcake fan, this is a great indulgence that shows you care about yourself.
Make your friends feel involved in the planning of your party by having a potluck. Encourage your friends to bring drinks, snacks, a special dish, or plates and bowls for the occasion. You can use an online invite service to create a signup sheet so that your friends can coordinate their contributions.
If there’s a charity that’s near and dear to your heart, make a donation on your birthday. You can do this by spreading the word through social media or simply telling your friends and family that you’ll be donating to a cause you care about on your birthday in lieu of gifts.
Whether you’re a fashionista or not, a new outfit can always be a birthday treat. If you don’t want to splurge on an entire wardrobe, consider getting a subscription service like FashionPass, Nuuly, or Rent the Runway.
You’ve got friends who live far away, so make your birthday a great opportunity to plan a visit with them. Spending quality time with your closest pals is a surefire way to brighten up your day.
If you’re having a birthday party with friends, have them record a short video wish for you. Using VidDay, you can turn these messages into a beautiful group video, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard on your special day. It’s easy to do and will be a birthday treat you’ll remember.