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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6

Have a Pool Party

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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

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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 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

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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

What do people usually do for their 30th birthday? ›

If you're looking for creative 30th birthday ideas, invite your friends over for a classic sip and paint. Look for some DIY ideas for your craft and sip, head to the art store and grab a bottle of wine on your way back! You and your friends are about to create some masterpieces and have a fantastic time.

What is the saying when you turn 30? ›

"The 30s are the new 20s." "Life begins at 30." "In your thirties, most of your friends come to you. In your forties, you go to them."

How do you celebrate your birthday in answer? ›

Celebrate your birthday by seeing a play, having a picnic in the park, visiting an escape room, or just chilling at home. Or go the traditional route and have a birthday party. Either do the planning yourself, or have friends or family plan the shindig for you.

How I celebrated my 30th birthday? ›

Take a Road Trip to Somewhere You Never Thought You'd Want to Go • Try a New Restaurant out of Town • Bake Your Own Cake • Get a New Hairstyle • Paint a Room in Your House a New Color • More ...

What milestone is 30th birthday? ›

The 30th birthday is often viewed as a turning point in a person's life, representing the end of youth and the start of middle adulthood. By now, you might have a steady job and a family of your own. You should celebrate this new chapter with a big party.

What is a golden 30th birthday? ›

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 is a cute caption for turning 30? ›

Cute 30 years old instagram captions
  • 30 looks pretty cute on me, don't you think?
  • 30 years and still young at heart!
  • Celebrating 30 with a sprinkle of sweetness!
  • 30 candles and a heart full of love.
  • 30 years wiser, 30 times cuter!
  • Flirty, thriving, and thirty!
  • 30 and loving every minute of it.

Why is turning 30 special? ›

It's an age that society designates as the change from impetuous youth to more responsible adulthood. But let me tell you Maina, this 30 feels like much more than just a shift in numbers. It's like reaching the peak of a mountain and taking a moment to catch my breath before moving on to the next section of the trek.

What does 30th birthday symbolize? ›

The 30th birthday is special. You are now officially a mature and responsible adult who has the necessary wisdom to make important decisions in life. The 30th birthday heralds your adult status with measured indulgence.

What are 3 lines for happy birthday? ›

Short & Sweet Birthday Messages
  • “Hope all your birthday wishes come true!”
  • “It's your special day — get out there and celebrate!”
  • “Wishing you the biggest slice of happy today.”
  • “I hope your celebration gives you many happy memories!”
  • “Our age is merely the number of years the world has been enjoying us!”
Mar 21, 2024

What is the best birthday message? ›

Short and Sweet Birthday Messages
  • Sending love and hugs on your big birthday!
  • Close your eyes and make a wish. ...
  • May your birthday be filled with smiles and cake. ...
  • Today is all about you, and I couldn't think of anyone who deserves it more!
  • Cheers to the wisest man we know. ...
  • Celebrating another year of you!
Jan 19, 2024

What was your most memorable birthday? ›

Sample Answer:

My most memorable birthday celebration was a surprise party organised by my close friends when I turned 25. It took place at a cosy rooftop restaurant in the city, with a breathtaking sunset as the backdrop. All of my closest friends and family gathered to celebrate with me, making it truly special.

Should you celebrate your 30th birthday? ›

You did it — you survived your 20s! Over the past decade, you've loved, you've lost, and you've probably burnt a dinner or two along the way. But, most importantly, you learned a lot about yourself and how you want your life to be, which we think warrants a celebration.

Why is 30th birthday a big deal? ›

Why Is Turning 30 Such a Big Deal? Our culture emphasizes turning 30 as the year that your carefree days end and the day when you should finally have your ducks in a row.

What do guys do for their 30th birthday? ›

For his 30th, treat him to a night full of fun and competition with a game night. With Peerspace, you'll find venues that are geared for every type of gamer – there are spaces set up for video games, board games, or ones like this unique uptown speakeasy party venue in Minneapolis that has a little of everything!

How much should I spend on a 30th birthday party? ›

At VenueNow, we find that when it comes to 30th birthdays, the lower end of the budget scale is about $500 to $800. On the higher end – those who hire a function space exclusively, purchase a food and beverage package, and go all out with decorations – you'll see budgets of about $2,000 to $3,000.

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