Celebrate a New Decade With One of These 30th Birthday Ideas (2024)

Celebrate a New Decade With One of These 30th Birthday Ideas (1)

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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A 30th birthday party definitely calls for some wine for toasting, and you can make the bottles stand out with these celebratory birthday labels.

SHOP WINE BOTTLE LABELS

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6

Have a Pool Party

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Get out the pool floats, flash those shades, and whip up some tropical cocktails—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

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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

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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

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If you’d like to add some class to a cocktail 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

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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

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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

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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)

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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Celebrate a New Decade With One of These 30th Birthday Ideas (2024)

FAQs

How do you make a 30th special? ›

30 Unique 30th Birthday Ideas To Celebrate in Style
  1. 01 of 30. Order a Round at Your Favorite Dive Bar. ...
  2. 02 of 30. Rent a Karaoke Room. ...
  3. 03 of 30. Throw a House Party. ...
  4. 04 of 30. Book an Escape Room. ...
  5. 05 of 30. Spend the Day Outdoors. ...
  6. 06 of 30. Book a Luxurious Stay at a Boutique Hotel. ...
  7. 07 of 30. Grab Tickets To a Concert. ...
  8. 08 of 30.
Apr 9, 2024

What is a 30th birthday celebration called? ›

Meaning of milestone birthday in English

a special birthday such as your 18th, 21st, 30th, or 40th birthday: Jack was 28 in his first movie part. Now he's reaching the milestone birthday of 40.

What is special about 30th birthday? ›

They say life begins at 30, and for good reason. Reaching this birthday milestone can feel like you're bidding farewell to a more carefree phase of your life and stepping into true adulthood…which sounds like a cause for celebration! Past milestone birthdays, such as your 21st, were probably thrown for you.

How can I celebrate my wife's 30th birthday? ›

30th Birthday Ideas for Her
  1. Host a Retro Sleepover.
  2. Enjoy a Spa Day.
  3. Go for a Hike.
  4. Camp in the Backyard.
  5. Belt it Out at a Karaoke Bar.
  6. Host a Dinner Party.
  7. Enjoy a Luxe Staycation.
  8. Host a Pool Party.
Jan 22, 2023

Is 30 a significant birthday? ›

As mentioned above 16,17, 18 and 21 are often considered milestone birthdays. After that, 30th, 40th, 50th and 60th birthdays are significant. Some people may celebrate 65th 66th or 67th birthdays as milestone birthdays, due to this being associated with 'official' retirement ages.

How to make a 30th birthday special on a budget? ›

Budget-friendly birthday party ideas

Invite your friends over and ask everyone to bring their favourite dish. This way, you won't have to worry about catering costs, and everyone will get to enjoy a variety of delicious food. Another budget-friendly idea is to have a picnic in the park.

What color is 30th birthday? ›

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.

Is 30 the golden birthday? ›

Many people wonder exactly what age is the “golden year.” But there are actually multiple chances to celebrate. Your golden birthday is the year you turn the same age as your birthday – for example, turning 25 on the 25th, or 31 on the 31st. If you've ever wondered where the tradition comes from, you're not alone.

What birthday ages are special? ›

A first birthday, turning 5, becoming a teenager at 13, and a 16th birthday are all important childhood milestones that usually involve a large party and an extra-special gift. Milestone birthdays for adults are typically their 18th birthday, 21st birthday, and then all those round number birthdays.

Why is 30th birthday a big deal? ›

Turning 30 can be a big deal for many people, as it marks the end of your 20s and the beginning of a new decade in your life. It's an age when many people feel a sense of transition, as they move from their younger, more carefree years into a phase of greater responsibility and maturity.

What does the age 30 symbolize? ›

In the Bible, age 30 symbolizes “dedication to a calling or set apart of a specific task.”

What do I say to my wife on her 30th birthday? ›

30th birthday messages for husband and wife
  • I love everything we share and I can't wait to see what happens next.
  • You make every day happier and I love you so much.
  • I don't know where I'd be without you and your love.
  • Celebrating you on your birthday and want you to know how important you are to me.

How can I celebrate my 30th birthday without alcohol? ›

If you're looking for a fun and lively celebration, consider hosting a game night, karaoke party, or dance party on your sober birthday. You can play your favorite games, sing your heart out, or dance the night away with your friends and family.

How can I celebrate my wife's birthday on a low budget? ›

Few Birthday Celebration Ideas for Wife's Birthday
  1. Plan a Birthday Trip. ...
  2. Birthday Breakfast in Bed. ...
  3. Little Love Notes on Birthday. ...
  4. Cook for her on her Birthday. ...
  5. A Day Off on Birthday.
Jun 15, 2023

How can I make my husband's 30th special? ›

10 Birthday Gifts That Will Make Your Husband's 30th Special
  1. Cooking class.
  2. Sports day out.
  3. Surprise party.
  4. Indoor picnic.
  5. Cocktail party.
  6. Whiskey or wine experience.
  7. Tick off the bucket list.
  8. Wish box.

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