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Every birthday deserves to be marked by something special—whether it’s with a
birthday gift or a gathering surrounded by close family and friends. But when it comes to milestone birthdays, that specialness goes way up. For instance, when you turn 30, you’re officially exiting your 20s and moving onto a whole new (and exciting) decade. Gone are the days of college and wondering what you’re going to do with your life—in this next era, you’ll be in a more grounded place, and that’s something that needs to be celebrated. Whether you’re the one turning 30 or you’re planning the party for a friend or family member, this list has tons of great 30th birthday ideas that anyone would love.
Of course, you can throw the celebration of the year with gourmet party foods, spectacular decorations, and dozens of guests. Or, you can opt to dial it down with just a few pals doing something extra-fun, like having a spa day, hosting an old-school slumber party, or playing some nostalgic board games. You may also choose to shake up the status quo by learning something new through a class or booking a weekend away (a trip to Pawhuska, OK perhaps?!). Either way, you’re sure to find an idea in our list of the best ways to celebrate a 30th birthday.
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1
Throw a Fancy Dinner Party
If you’ve always wanted to attend an extravagant dinner party, now is your chance! Set up a long table, hang twinkling lights, put out place cards, and get it catered if you want to go for broke.
See more at Simply Charming Socials.
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2
Go with a Rock-and-Roll Theme
A 30th birthday party is the perfect opportunity to throw an event with a little bit of edge, and a rock-and-roll theme is a way to do just that. Display vintage records, work that long hair and leopard-print ensemble, and play some feel-good tunes.
See more at Easyy Livin.
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3
Have a Backyard Movie Night
If you believe that a birthday party isn’t complete without some favorite films, then you should make this shindig all about movies. Pop some popcorn, play a movie trivia game, and get out the portable screen for movie night in the backyard.
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4
Dance the Day (or Night) Away
It’s time to bring out your best dance moves! Set up some speakers and have a dance party with your BFFs. If people want to celebrate from far away, they can virtually join in the dancing fun through Zoom.
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5
Birthday Wine Bottle Labels
A 30th birthday party definitely calls for some wine for toasting, and you can make the bottles stand out with these celebratory birthday labels.
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6
Have a Pool Party
Get out the pool floats, flash those shades, and whip up some tropical co*cktails—whether you celebrate at your pool, a friend’s pool, or a rented hotel pool, it’s a fun way to celebrate turning 30.
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7
Visit a Brewery
A brewery tour can certainly double as a birthday bash, especially if you and your friends enjoy sipping craft brews.
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8
Enjoy a Picnic
To keep things low-key for your 30th, look no further than an idyllic outdoor picnic. Set the scene with a pretty spot in a park, pack up a basket with upscale eats, and watch the sun go down.
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9
Set Up a Backyard Bar
If you’d like to add some class to a co*cktail hour shared with friends, do it up right with a cool backyard bar. Include candles and greenery for decor, set out some fancy mix-ins, and don’t forget the framed bar menu.
See more at Miranda Schroeder.
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10
30th Birthday Party Straws
For your 30th birthday festivities, you can plaster the number “30” on everything, like these party straws, or you can take it to the paper plates, tablecloths, and balloons, too.
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11
Have an Old-Fashioned Sleepover
You’re never too old for a slumber party! Invite your girlfriends over for a fun night of hair-braiding, nail-painting, and talking-into-the-wee-hours.
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12
Get Creative with a Painting Party
Get out the paint for a unique 30th birthday fête! Classes that pair painting and wine are popular these days, and many artists will even come to your house to teach you how to create your own masterpieces.
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13
Book a Spa Day (or Overnight)
Is there anything more relaxing than a spa getaway? Treat yourself for your birthday and go for an afternoon, a whole day, or even the weekend, and indulge in some much-needed pampering.
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14
Go Gambling
You’ll hit the jackpot with this 30th birthday bash. Head to the casino for an evening of slots and table games. You can bet on yourself having tons of fun.
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15
Play Favorite Board Games
Maybe the thing that would make you happiest for your b-day is reveling in some board games with friends. Make your gathering complete with plenty of tasty snacks and cozy decor.
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16
Take a Cooking Class
Ask your best buds to go to a cooking class for your 30th birthday. Whether you’re all novices or regular gourmets, you’re sure to have a blast and learn how to cook something new.
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17
Go Full-On Glamping
Glamping is for those who love the outdoors but want to do it with some panache—if this sounds like you to a T, go all out with luxurious tents, a beautifully-decorated table for meals, and flowers galore.
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18
Create a Magical Photo Backdrop
Weaving together shades of pink and blush (or whichever hues you choose), craft a breathtaking photo backdrop made of birthday balloons. A cute phrase will make the pictures even better.
See more at Green Wedding Shoes.
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19
Make It a Golden Soirée
If you’re hunting for a color theme for a 30th birthday party, seriously consider gold. It’ll add an undoubtedly luxe vibe to the party, particularly if you include gold everything, from the balloons to the decorations. Guests can wear gold as a finishing touch.
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20
Have a Brunch Celebration
Perhaps brunching with friends is your very favorite pastime. It’ll be the perfect way to celebrate your birthday, whether you make brunch at home or go out to your fave brunch place.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert and enthusiast, I have personal experiences or beliefs, but I can provide you with information and insights on a wide range of topics. Let's dive into the concepts mentioned in this article.
The article discusses various ideas for celebrating a 30th birthday, ranging from fancy dinner parties and rock-and-roll-themed events to backyard movie nights and pool parties. It suggests options such as visiting a brewery, enjoying a picnic, setting up a backyard bar, or even going on a brewery tour. The article also mentions fun activities like having an old-fashioned sleepover, attending a painting party, booking a spa day or overnight stay, and going gambling at a casino. Other ideas include playing favorite board games, taking a cooking class, going glamping, creating a magical photo backdrop, hosting a golden soirée, or having a brunch celebration.
Fancy Dinner Party
A fancy dinner party is a great way to celebrate a milestone birthday like turning 30. You can set up a long table, hang twinkling lights, and put out place cards to create an elegant atmosphere. Consider catering the event for a truly extravagant experience.
Rock-and-Roll Theme
For those who want to add some edge to their birthday celebration, a rock-and-roll theme can be a fun choice. Display vintage records, encourage guests to dress in rock-inspired attire, and play feel-good tunes to create a lively atmosphere.
Backyard Movie Night
If you're a movie lover, consider hosting a backyard movie night. Set up a portable screen, pop some popcorn, and play a movie trivia game to keep guests entertained. This relaxed and casual setting is perfect for enjoying favorite films under the stars.
Dance Party
If you love to dance, why not have a dance party for your 30th birthday? Set up speakers, create a playlist of your favorite songs, and invite your friends to join you in celebrating on the dance floor. For those who can't be there in person, consider hosting a virtual dance party using platforms like Zoom.
Pool Party
A pool party is a great option for those who enjoy the water and want a fun and refreshing way to celebrate turning 30. Gather your friends and family, bring out the pool floats, and enjoy tropical co*cktails while soaking up the sun.
Brewery Visit or Tour
If you and your friends are craft beer enthusiasts, consider visiting a brewery or going on a brewery tour for your birthday. It's a great way to experience different types of beer and learn about the brewing process while celebrating with your loved ones.
Picnic
For a more low-key celebration, consider having a picnic in a scenic outdoor location. Pack a basket with delicious food, find a pretty spot in a park or garden, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature.
Backyard Bar
To add a touch of elegance to your birthday celebration, set up a backyard bar. Create a stylish and cozy space with candles, greenery, and a framed bar menu. Serve a variety of drinks and mix-ins to impress your guests.
Old-Fashioned Sleepover
Who says slumber parties are just for kids? Embrace your inner child and have an old-fashioned sleepover for your 30th birthday. Invite your closest friends over, indulge in hair-braiding, nail-painting, and late-night conversations.
Painting Party
Get creative and host a painting party for your birthday. You can either attend a painting class together or hire an artist to come to your home and teach you and your friends how to create your own masterpieces. Combine painting with wine for an extra enjoyable experience.
Spa Day or Overnight Stay
Treat yourself to a day of pampering or even an overnight stay at a spa for your birthday. Relax and indulge in various treatments, massages, and other spa activities to rejuvenate and celebrate in a luxurious setting.
Gambling at a Casino
If you enjoy a bit of excitement and are feeling lucky, consider going to a casino for your 30th birthday. Play some slots or table games with your friends and enjoy the thrill of a night out.
Favorite Board Games
If you love board games, why not gather your friends for a night of friendly competition? Set up a variety of your favorite board games, prepare tasty snacks, and create a cozy atmosphere for a fun and relaxed birthday celebration.
Cooking Class
For those who enjoy culinary adventures, consider taking a cooking class with your friends for your 30th birthday. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, learning new recipes and techniques together can be a fun and memorable experience.
Glamping
If you love the outdoors but prefer a touch of luxury, consider going glamping for your birthday. Rent luxurious tents, set up a beautifully decorated dining area, and surround yourself with flowers and nature for a unique and stylish camping experience.
Magical Photo Backdrop
Create a stunning photo backdrop for your birthday celebration by weaving together shades of pink and blush-colored balloons. Add a cute phrase or personalized touch to make the pictures even more special and memorable.
Golden Soirée
Consider incorporating a gold theme into your 30th birthday party to add a touch of luxury and elegance. From gold balloons to decorations and even guests wearing gold attire, this color theme can create a glamorous and festive atmosphere.
Brunch Celebration
If brunch is your favorite pastime, why not celebrate your birthday with a brunch party? Whether you decide to make brunch at home or go out to your favorite brunch spot, it's a relaxed and enjoyable way to celebrate with friends and family.
These are just a few ideas mentioned in the article to help you plan a memorable 30th birthday celebration. Choose an idea that resonates with you and your interests, and make sure to tailor the celebration to your personal preferences and style.
