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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.
