Your birthday isn’t just about candles and cake—it’s a celebration of YOU and the people who’ve helped you get here. Whether you’re 8 or 80, a birthday with family and friends is the perfect excuse to slow down, soak it all in, and do something that makes your heart happy.
And if you’re a family-first kind of person like me, then sharing your special day with your favorite crew makes it all the more meaningful.
From indoor laughs to outdoor adventures, quiet moments to loud cheer, here are 163+ fun ways to turn your birthday into a memorable, joy-filled celebration with your family members. No stress, no pressure—just a big ol’ list of birthday ideas to inspire your next great day.
Celebrating with Friends
When planning a birthday bash with friends, it’s all about creating moments that everyone will remember. Here are some of the top ideas to consider:
- Personal Touches: Start with sending out clear invitations that include all the essential details like time, date, and dress code. Add personalized touches such as themed place cards, menus, and detailed food descriptions to make guests feel special.
- Engaging Activities:
- Host a game night at home or visit a board game café for some competitive fun.
- Organize a murder mystery party, either DIY or with a professional company, for a thrilling experience.
- Rent a karaoke machine and let everyone unleash their inner pop star.
- Unique Party Ideas:
- Book a private cooking class with chefs from around the world for a gourmet experience.
- Unwind with a luxurious spa day, either at a professional spa or arranged at home for a touch of relaxation.
- Throw a ’90s-themed party for a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Remember, the key to a successful celebration is ensuring inclusivity and personalization. Assign a ‘mingle master’ to draw people together, and plan your menu thoughtfully, considering the duration of your event and the preferences of your guests. This way, you’ll create a birthday bash that’s both memorable and uniquely yours.
Family-Friendly Fun
For a birthday that brings the family together in laughter and joy, consider these engaging and memorable activities:
- Unique Venue Ideas:
- Have a blast at a local zoo or aquarium for an educational and fun experience.
- Rent a mini-golf course for a friendly competition among family members.
- Celebrate on a boat for a unique and unforgettable adventure.
- Creative Home-Based Celebrations:
- Organize a “Backyard Olympics” with various games and a DIY scoreboard for a day full of laughter and teamwork.
- Host an “Around the World Party” at home, where each room represents a different country, offering various cuisines and drinks.
- Plan a “Moon and Stars Party” for an enchanting evening under the sky with celestial-themed decorations.
These ideas not only provide a platform for quality family time but also ensure a birthday celebration that everyone will remember for years to come.
Solo Birthday Adventures
Embracing solitude on your birthday can be a powerful way to reflect, rejuvenate, and rejoice in your personal growth. Here are some meaningful ways to celebrate:
- Self-Reflection and Growth
- Reflect on your past year and set vibrant goals for the future.
- Write a heartfelt letter to your future self, envisioning where you want to be.
- Practice gratitude for your accomplishments and the beauty in your life.
- Creative and Leisure Activities
- Dive into creative pursuits like painting, writing, or crafting to express yourself.
- Curl up with a good book or binge-watch a favorite TV series for some relaxation.
- Bake a cake just for you, celebrating with every delicious bite.
- Personal Pampering and Adventure
- Treat yourself to a wine tasting, spa day or create a spa-like atmosphere at home for ultimate relaxation.
- Plan a solo adventure, like a hot air balloon ride, for an unforgettable birthday experience.
- Adopt a new mindset or give yourself a mini-makeover to start the year fresh and inspired.
163 Things To Do On Your Birthday With Family
1. Amusement park day
Spend your special day riding coasters and winning silly prizes with your kids. It’s a great way to feel like a kid again yourself.
2. Backyard movie night
Set up a projector and blankets outside. Let everyone vote on your favorite movie to watch under the stars.
3. Make-your-own pizza night
Get dough, sauces, and toppings ready for a DIY dinner. Everyone gets to create their favorite food masterpiece.
4. Visit a local zoo
See the animals and maybe even feed a giraffe. It’s an educational and fun way to spend time as a family.
5. Go rock climbing
Head to a climbing gym or outdoor wall. Great for adventurous families who like a challenge.
6. Ice cream sundae bar
Set up a make-your-own sundae station. Don’t forget the sprinkles, whipped cream, and cherries.
7. Water park fun
Spend the day splashing, sliding, and laughing. It’s a great way to stay cool and have a blast.
8. Botanical garden visit
Wander through lush gardens and snap birthday selfies. It’s relaxing and a great way to soak in the great outdoors.
9. Hot air balloon ride
Float over the countryside and take in the views. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of birthday.
10. Pool party at home
Set up floaties, music, and snacks. It’s like a mini tropical getaway in your backyard.
11. Visit an animal shelter
Volunteer together or just go play with some pups. It’s a sweet and giving way to spend your day.
12. Dance party in the living room
Turn up your favorite songs and dance like no one’s watching. Bonus points for disco lights.
13. Cooking class as a family
Take a local class or watch a YouTube tutorial together. Learn how to make something totally new.
14. Ice skating adventure
Bundle up and hit the rink. Don’t forget the hot cocoa afterward.
15. Game night marathon
Pull out your favorite board games and card games. Let the birthday person pick the first game.
Enjoying Your Birthday with Family
16. Road trip for the day
Pick a nearby town or quirky roadside attraction. Blast your favorite songs and hit the road.
17. Make a family photo album
Print your favorite memories and put them together. It’s a creative way to spend time and look back.
18. Visit a local museum
Check out science, history, or art exhibits. It’s fun and sneakily educational.
19. Have a slumber party
Build a fort in the living room and sleep in sleeping bags. Don’t forget face masks and popcorn.
20. Universal Studios day trip
If you’re near one, spend your birthday exploring rides and shows. It’s a special treat for the whole family.
21. Make your own birthday cake
Let the kids help mix, pour, and decorate. It’s messy, sweet, and totally memorable.
22. Go bowling together
Rent a lane and make goofy team names. Celebrate every strike with high-fives and ice cream.
23. Host a backyard BBQ
Grill up your favorite food and invite the neighbors. It’s laid-back, delicious, and full of laughs.
24. Movie theater day
Catch the latest family-friendly flick on the big screen. Don’t skip the buttery popcorn.
25. Go on a scavenger hunt
Make a list and hide clues around the house or neighborhood. The final prize? A birthday gift, of course.
26. Go for a nature walk
Take a trail and breathe in the fresh air. It’s a simple yet powerful way of spending time together.
27. DIY craft party
Break out the glue sticks and glitter. Everyone makes something to remember the day.
28. Try out mini-golf
Putt your way through windmills and waterfalls. Whoever wins gets an extra scoop of ice cream.
29. Visit a science center
Let curiosity lead the way with hands-on exhibits. It’s fun and makes you feel like a kid again.
30. Family karaoke night
Pick your favorite songs and perform your hearts out. Bonus points for dad’s air guitar solo.
Things To Do On Your Birthday With Family
31. Picnic at the local park
Pack sandwiches, snacks, and a blanket. Let the kids run wild while you kick back under a tree.
32. Try indoor skydiving
Feel the rush of flying without jumping from a plane. It’s a thrilling and safe family adventure.
33. Watch home videos
Pop some popcorn and relive your favorite family moments. Laughter (and maybe a few happy tears) guaranteed.
34. Build a LEGO birthday city
Dump all the bricks on the table and build something epic. Even better when grown-ups join in.
35. Visit a trampoline park
Bounce, flip, and fall into foam pits. It’s an energy-burning, giggle-inducing time.
36. DIY spa day
Put on face masks and cucumbers over your eyes. Even dad deserves some pampering.
37. Make a birthday time capsule
Fill it with notes, drawings, and tiny keepsakes. Open it on a future birthday for major nostalgia.
38. Take a pottery class
Get your hands dirty and create something memorable. Wonky bowls have personality.
39. Go roller skating
Old-school wheels meet new-school fun. Bring your favorite songs for a retro vibe.
40. Build a backyard obstacle course
Use pool noodles, cones, and imagination. Let the races begin!
41. Visit an aquarium
Marvel at jellyfish and sea turtles. Don’t forget to wave at the sharks.
42. Go horseback riding
Take a trail ride as a family. Even better if it ends with s’mores by a fire pit.
43. Host a themed costume dinner
Pick a theme like superheroes or pirates. Bonus points for staying in character during dessert.
44. Do a chocolate tasting
Try chocolates from around the world. The more messy, the better.
45. Bake something new
Try a recipe you’ve never attempted before. Even a birthday fail tastes good with whipped cream.
46. Go geocaching
Use your phone to hunt for hidden treasures nearby. Like a birthday scavenger hunt with strangers.
47. Make DIY milkshakes
Blend ice cream with wild toppings. Serve in fancy glasses with goofy straws.
48. Visit a farmer’s market
Let everyone pick one ingredient. Head home and cook a funky birthday meal together.
49. Try goat yoga
Yes, it’s yoga… with goats. A hilarious and surprisingly relaxing experience.
50. Take a sunset walk
Grab a cozy sweater and hit the trail. Snap a family photo with golden hour magic.
51. Decorate your house together
Balloons, streamers, and handmade signs. It’s fun and doubles as bonding time.
52. Take silly birthday photos
Use props and goofy faces. Frame your favorite shot for next year’s celebration.
53. Build a blanket fort
Make it cozy with twinkle lights. Eat birthday snacks inside and tell ghost stories.
54. Go to a live comedy show
If the kids are older, laugh together at a clean comedy event. Laughter is the best birthday gift.
55. Make birthday art
Paint or draw what this year has meant to you. Hang the masterpiece on the fridge.
56. Watch the stars
Lay out blankets and look up. Make wishes on every shooting star.
57. Host a backyard campfire
Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and maybe sing some camp songs. Keep the birthday vibes glowing.
58. Set family birthday challenges
Who can stack the tallest cup tower or hula hoop the longest? Winners get bragging rights.
59. Go on a donut crawl
Visit a few bakeries and rank the donuts. Sugar rush: achieved.
60. Make DIY t-shirts
Design your own birthday shirts with fabric markers. Everyone wears theirs to dinner.
Things To Do On Your Birthday With Family Cont..
61. Go on a scenic drive
Find a route you’ve never taken before. Bonus points for a killer playlist.
62. Visit a planetarium
Learn about the stars on your special day. Pretend one’s named after you.
63. Try indoor gardening
Plant herbs or flowers together. Watch your birthday blooms grow all year.
64. Build gingerbread houses (even if it’s not December)
Who says it has to be Christmas? Birthday candy houses are just as sweet.
65. Make a music video
Pick your favorite song and record a goofy family dance. Post it or keep it for laughs later.
66. Go paddle boating
Cruise across a quiet lake or pond. Don’t forget to wave like royalty.
67. Have a bubble party
Fill the yard with giant bubbles and bubble wands. It’s pure joy.
68. Visit a food truck park
Try something new from each vendor. Everyone gets their favorite food, and nobody has to cook.
69. Do a blind taste test
Set up different sodas, chips, or jams. Guess the flavors—winner gets the last cupcake.
70. Decorate cookies
Set up a decorating station with icing and sprinkles. The messier, the tastier.
71. Go thrifting for silly outfits
Give everyone $5 and 20 minutes. Rock your wacky birthday fashion on a family walk.
72. Write a birthday rap
Make it funny, heartfelt, or totally ridiculous. Perform it before the cake.
73. Do birthday trivia
Create a quiz about the birthday person. Winner gets an extra scoop of ice cream.
74. Paint rocks and hide them around town
Make someone else’s day while celebrating yours. Leave a note: “Happy Birthday from a stranger!”
75. Visit a historic site
Explore the past while making new memories. Bonus points for dressing like tourists.
76. Make breakfast together
Start the day with pancakes and silly toppings. Let the birthday person wear a chef hat.
77. Do a backyard science experiment
Try making a volcano or launching a baking soda rocket. It’s a fun way to learn and laugh.
78. Write a birthday poem
Each family member adds a line. Read it before dessert for extra sweetness.
79. Go to a drive-in movie
Snuggle up in the car with snacks and blankets. A cozy and nostalgic way to end the day.
80. Have a family board game tournament
Compete in several games and tally points. The champion gets bragging rights (until next year).
81. Explore a local landmark
Be a tourist in your own town. Snap a family selfie in front of something historic.
82. Try a food tour
Pick a few local restaurants and try one dish at each. It’s like a birthday buffet across town.
83. Create a chalk mural on your driveway
Everyone grabs a color and draws something birthday-related. Art + sunshine = awesome.
84. Go berry picking
Find a local farm and fill baskets together. Bonus: fresh berries on the birthday cake.
85. Visit a butterfly conservatory
Walk among the fluttering wings. A peaceful way to enjoy nature together.
86. Make handmade cards for each other
Forget store-bought—write something heartfelt. Keep them in a special birthday box.
87. Try virtual reality games
Visit a VR arcade or set it up at home. The future is fun.
88. Go out for a family brunch
Waffles, bacon, and fresh juice—yes please. Add a toast to the birthday star.
89. Ride go-karts
Race each other around the track. Finish with ice cream for the podium winners.
90. Create a family comic book
Make up a silly story and draw each other as heroes. Frame the final masterpiece.
More Things To Do On Your Birthday With Family
91. Go kayaking or canoeing
Float peacefully or splash each other like maniacs. Either way, it’s a great way to spend time.
92. Host a silly Olympics
Egg tosses, three-legged races, and water balloon battles. Everyone wins something.
93. Explore a new neighborhood
Pick a part of town you’ve never seen. Discover hidden parks or fun snack shops.
94. Go to a puppet show or theater performance
Support local performers and enjoy live entertainment. It’s magical for little ones and nostalgic for adults.
95. Make a birthday wreath for your door
Crafty and welcoming. It says “fun lives here.”
96. Visit a nearby lake or beach
Skip rocks, build sandcastles, or just chill. Nature makes the best birthday backdrop.
97. Try ice cream from a new shop
Even better if they have wild flavors. Yes to birthday cake swirl.
98. Have a pajama day
No dress-up required—just coziness. Bonus points for breakfast-for-dinner.
99. Do a puzzle together
Choose one with 1,000 pieces and work as a team. Celebrate finishing with a round of cheers.
100. Try indoor laser tag
Enjoy a good time with a battle in the dark with glowing vests. Winner picks the next activity.
101. Watch a documentary
Pick one that’s fun or fascinating. Talk about it over dinner like fancy folks. Spending your birthday with family doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
102. Create a DIY photo booth
Set up props and a fun backdrop. Take silly photos to remember the day.
103. Go fruit picking
Oranges, apples, peaches—you name it. Come home and bake a pie together.
104. Write a gratitude list
Each family member says something they love about the birthday person. Cue the tears.
105. Do an escape room
Work together to solve clues and break out. Great teamwork and high-stakes fun.
106. Go on a hike
Choose a trail with great views. Bring birthday snacks for a mountaintop picnic.
107. Paint pottery
Create mugs, plates, or mini sculptures. Pick them up later and remember the day.
108. Create a birthday playlist
Everyone adds their favorite song. Dance party = unlocked.
109. Watch old family movies
Dig out home videos from the archives. Get comfy and laugh at the hairstyles.
110. Visit a local fair or festival
Enjoy rides, fried food, and fun games. Win a prize and call it your birthday trophy.
111. Create a family handprint canvas
Paint everyone’s hands and stamp them. A forever birthday keepsake.
112. Make friendship bracelets
Simple, colorful, and perfect for siblings to gift each other.
113. Go fishing
Cast your line and see who catches dinner. Or just enjoy the quiet.
114. Try a new sport together
Pickleball, disc golf, or paddleboarding—anything goes. Try it out just for fun.
115. Visit a cat café
If your family loves felines, cuddle while sipping cocoa. Purr-fect.
116. Volunteer together
Serve at a soup kitchen or clean up a park. Give back on your special day.
117. Create a birthday banner
Hang it proudly in the house. Add names and drawings for extra flair.
118. Have a tea party
Break out the fancy cups and finger sandwiches. Bonus points for speaking in accents.
119. Go bird watching
Visit a sanctuary or park with binoculars. Make a list of what you spot.
120. Do a lip-sync battle
Each person performs their best dramatic number. Winner gets the last piece of cake.
Awesome Things To Do On Your Birthday With Family
121. Write letters to future selves
Seal them up and open them next year. You’ll thank yourself.
122. Go on a ferry ride
Even if it’s just across the bay. Add snacks for a mini voyage.
123. Make DIY candles
Pick scents, colors, and containers. Light them at dinner.
124. Visit a reptile zoo
Get up close with snakes, lizards, and turtles. Learn something scaly.
125. Host a family roast (keep it kind!)
Tease each other with love. Laughter is guaranteed.
126. Try a meditation session
Start your birthday with calm and clarity. Or just take a five-minute breather.
127. Do a YouTube dance workout
Follow along and get moving. Sweat and smiles for everyone.
128. Make root beer floats
Simple, fizzy, and delicious. Drink them on the porch.
129. Go rollerblading
Hit the park or your driveway. Expect spills and laughs.
130. Create a “year in review” slideshow
Use photos and video clips. Watch together and celebrate all the memories.
131. Try archery
Channel your inner Robin Hood. Safe and fun at a local range.
132. Visit a trampoline park
Bounce out all that birthday energy. Flip, jump, repeat.
133. Write a birthday story together
Each person adds a sentence. The sillier, the better.
134. Set up a glow stick party
Turn out the lights and hand out glow sticks. Instant fun.
135. Make birthday punch
Mix up a fruity drink just for today. Add a fancy straw.
136. Visit a Lego store
Build something cool or check out the giant models. Fun for kids and grown-up kids alike.
137. Go to a batting cage
Hit a few balls and feel like a pro. Great for teens and adults.
138. Do a silly fashion show
Raid closets and make wild outfits. Strut your stuff on the “runway.”
139. Try origami
Fold paper into birthday magic. Cranes, hearts, or even a birthday cake.
140. Go sledding or snow tubing (if it’s winter)
Cold? Yes. Fun? Absolutely, Crazy and Fun way to spend your birthday with family.
141. Host a virtual party
Connect with long-distance family. Play games, eat cake, and laugh together.
142. Do a random act of kindness
Pay for someone’s coffee. Spread birthday cheer beyond your home.
143. Make a scrapbook page
Add it to your family album. One page for every birthday.
144. Try a new cultural dish
Pick a recipe from a country you’ve never tried. Cook and learn together.
145. Do a family talent show
Sing, juggle, tell jokes—everyone’s got something! Film it for future laughs.
146. Make balloon animals
Even if they’re terrible, they’re hilarious. Let the kids lead.
147. Create a mini garden
Plant something simple. Watch it grow through the year.
148. Try hand lettering or calligraphy
Write your birthday name in fancy fonts. Use it on thank-you notes later.
149. Build a birdhouse
Paint it and hang it in the yard. Invite feathered birthday guests.
150. Go to a storytelling night
Find a local event or create one at home. Everyone shares a favorite memory.
List of Things To Do On Your Birthday With Family
151. Visit a fire station
Many offer tours! Fun, educational, and exciting for the kids.
152. Make a birthday crown
Craft it with paper, glitter, and stickers. Wear it all day proudly.
153. Do backyard stargazing
Lay out blankets and find constellations. Wish on a few stars while you’re at it.
154. Have a dessert-only dinner
Skip the veggies just this once. Brownies, cake, and ice cream, please.
155. Create a personalized birthday song
Write your own lyrics and perform it for the birthday star. Bonus: record it for next year.
156. Make popcorn in a pot
Old-school stovetop style. Add weird toppings like cheese powder or caramel.
157. Try sand art
Layer colored sand in bottles or jars. Beautiful and satisfying.
158. Visit a 3D art museum
Snap fun optical illusion pics. It’s like stepping into a cartoon.
159. Try kite flying
On a windy day, there’s nothing more freeing. Great for beaches or big fields.
160. Do birthday yoga
Stretch, breathe, and balance together. Birthday zen.
161. Go on a photo scavenger hunt
List silly things to find and take pics of. First one to complete it wins!
162. Eat at your favorite restaurant
Make a reservation and go all out. Dress fancy or come as you are.
163. End the day with a toast
Whether it’s juice or sparkling cider, clink glasses. Celebrate the memories made and the love shared.
FAQs
What are fun things I can do by myself to celebrate my birthday?
If you don’t want to spend your Birthday With Family… it’s ok… Don’t feel guilty.. Here are some cool things to do…
- If you’re spending your birthday solo, consider these ideas:
- Have a great time and bake or order your favorite cake.
- Write a letter to your future self.
- Take yourself out on a solo date.
- Indulge in a luxurious spa day or a DIY spa treatment at home.
- Perform an act of kindness for someone else.
- Purchase a long-desired item for yourself.
- Organize a virtual get-together with friends or family.
How can I add excitement to my special occasion?
- For an exciting birthday, try the following:
- Arrange a picnic in a scenic location.
- Spend the day at the beach.
- Take a tour of your favorite sports stadium.
- Embark on a thrilling treetop adventure.
- Enjoy a live show or performance.
- Have a leisurely brunch.
- Explore food tours and taste new culinary delights.
What can I do for my birthday if I have no friends and no money?
- Here are suggestions for celebrating your birthday when alone and on a budget:
- Make a positive change in your life.
- Get creative and make something.
- Treat yourself to a small, meaningful gift.
- Spend time outdoors.
- Plan to watch a movie or show that you enjoy.
- Do something generous for others.
- Take a mini staycation at home.
- Host a virtual celebration with online friends or family.
The Perfect Way to celebrate my birthday alone without spending money?
- To celebrate your birthday alone and without spending much, consider these options:
- Treat yourself to a meal at a place that’s either fancy or special to you, even if it’s just a small treat.
- Watch a movie, see a play, attend a concert, or enjoy a night of karaoke.
- Remember, it’s your day, so do something that makes you feel celebrated and appreciated.
