Plan yourself or a friend the most memorable 21st birthday with these ideas! Trust me when I say these are some of the best things to do on a 21st birthday!
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Whether you’re trying to plan a party for yourself or for friends, it always feels impossible to think of ideas that are going to be fun. And when you finally think of something, just about a million other people have done the exact same thing for their 21st birthdays.
I’ve got a whole list of ideas, from party themes to food ideas to activities that will undoubtedly make your party the best yet. Trust me when I say everyone will remember your party if you use some of these ideas.
This post is all about things to do on a 21st birthday!
Party ideas at home
house party
You can never go wrong with throwing a good house party for a 21st birthday. You can invite all of your friends and have such a fun time at home.
If you want to make your party even better, use some of the other ideas on this list for some fun activities and delicious food during your party!
The atmosphere is important for holding family gatherings. A warm atmosphere can make every guest feel more welcome. This can be done with neon lights!
Custom neon signs can be customized according to your needs to perfectly match your space, adding the unique atmosphere you want to your gatherings. You can customize it on BPS.com, which will allow your family members to spend a relaxing and happy time in your home.
You can also create a slideshowto elevate your house party and make every moment even better, capturing the unforgettable moments and enhancing the ambiance of your celebration.
video game party
A video game party is a fun idea for anyone who loves gaming. Get together with all your friends and play a bunch of your favorite games together!
spa day
An at home spa day is the perfect 21st birthday party! Spend the entire time getting pampered with all your closest friends!
If you want to get really fancy, you can hire people to come to your house to do your spa day. If you want to keep it more low-key, just get some cute spa day essentials and have fun with your friends.
You can paint each other’s nails, do facials, and more!
powerpoint night
Powerpoint nights always make for such a fun and hilarious night! To make this night extra special for the birthday girl or guy, have everyone make the powerpoints about them in some way.
Trust me when I say this is such a fun activity to do with all your friends! You guys will be laughing the whole night!
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game night
A classic game night is a super fun way to have a special 21st birthday party without breaking the bank. You can either pick a bunch of your favorite games or have everyone bring one or two of their favorites.
Then you can spend the rest of the night playing all the games as a group.
You can pick board games, card games, party games, or whatever you like the best!
costume party
A costume party is such a fun idea for a 21st birthday party! You can give everyone a theme to dress in or tell everyone to go crazy, the possibilities are endless.
This makes for such a fun party and some super cute pictures.
Party decorations
temporary tattoos
Temporary tattoos are fun decorations for a 21st birthday party that also make for a great activity. You and your friends can spend some time giving each other your favorite temporary tattoos.
Then, you can all take some super cute pictures with the tattoos.
photo booth
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A photo booth or photo area is an absolute must for a 21st birthday party! Have fun decorating the area so you have a super cute backdrop for the photos.
Keep in mind the theme and other decorations of the party when making the photo area so everything at the party is coordinated!
bday sash and crown
$9.98
02/05/2024 06:31 pm GMT
The bday girl will also undoubtedly need a birthday sash and crown to wear. Whether you are staying in or going out, everyone needs to know who the special party is for!
Plus, these look super cute in all the pictures you will take!
LED sign
For a super fun 21st birthday party decoration, use a neon LED sign. These are perfect for photos and make the party look so much more impressive.
birthday banner
A birthday banner is another classic decoration that will look great at your party. These are super cheap and easy to hang up, so it’s the perfect decoration!
balloons
And of course, it wouldn’t be a party without a bunch of balloons to decorate. You can go as simple or crazy with the balloons as you want.
Remember again to try to match your balloons to the party theme or your other decorations so it all looks nice together.
Food ideas
have a fancy brunch
A fancy brunch is such a cute and classy 21st birthday party idea. Whether you want to cook your brunch and have your friends to your house, or go out to a brunch restaurant, you are sure to have a super fun time!
hire a private chef
For a super fancy party, hire a private chef to come and cook. This will 100% make your party a memorable one.
throw a cooking themed party
For another food themed idea, throw a cooking party for your 21st birthday! You can either do this at your house or go somewhere that has these parties.
This is such a fun activity to do with all your closest friends.
go for a picnic
A picnic is such a cute and trendy idea for a 21st birthday. Find a pretty park or outdoor area, plan your favorite foods, and get all your friends together.
This is also a super good idea for some amazing photo ops with your friends!
go for a tea party
For another classy option to feel extra fancy, have yourself a little tea party for your 21st.
Trust me when I say this is such a fun activity to do with all your girlfriends! Either find a place that does tea parties near you or throw your own at your house.
drunk barbie cake
With whatever party activities or theme that you choose, get a drunk barbie cake! These are so funny and absolutely perfect for a 21st birthday.
food tour
Take a food tour of your area or a nearby spot with all your friends for your birthday. This is the perfect birthday idea because you get some really great food and it gives you all something to do for a while.
wine tasting
Like the food tour, you can also take advantage of your new age and go for a wine tasting!
fondue night
Fondue night is a super creative idea for a party that you can do right at home! Whether you do appetizers of cheese fondue or chocolate fondue for dessert, this is such a delicious and cute bday idea.
Outdoorsy party ideas
go camping
If you are on the more adventurous side, spend a night or two camping with all your friends for your birthday.
have a sports day
Spend the day outdoors with your friends playing all of your favorite sports and activities. If you guys are competitive, you can even split into teams for the day and keep score of all the games to see who wins.
go on a road trip
A road trip with a few of your besties is the perfect 21st birthday party idea! This is such a cute way to have a really special birthday with your closest friends.
pool party
A classic pool party is never a bad idea for a birthday party, especially for your 21st! This is such a fun idea that lets you invite a bunch of people too!
go to a ropes course
If you have one nearby, try taking all your friends with you to a ropes course for your birthday. This is a super fun bonding activity that makes for a great birthday party.
make a bonfire
A more lowkey 21st birthday idea is to have a bonfire and make s’mores with all your friends for your birthday. This is definitely a cheaper birthday idea that still lets you have a really nice time with all your friends.
go to the beach
If your birthday is over the summer, take all your friends to the beach and spend the day there celebrating your birthday!
go on a booze cruise
Ring in your 21st birthday with a fancy booze cruise now that you are legal!
Fun party ideas
party bus
For a super exciting party idea, rent a party bus for you and all your friends! This is such a fun idea that lets you all have a more private party, while still being super cool.
go to a sports game
Another fun 21st birthday party idea is to go to your favorite sports team’s game!
see a show
If you live near shows, go out with your friends to see your favorite show!
paint shot glasses
Painting shot glasses is such a cute and crafty idea for your 21st birthday! Plus, now that you’re 21, you can put the glasses to good use after you decorate them.
go to a karaoke bar
A karaoke bar is the perfect place for your 21st birthday. Depending on the place and the amount of people you have, you might also be able to rent out a private room to make your party even more special.
Try an escape room
Escape rooms with all of your closest friends are seriously so much fun! Depending on how many people, you may have a couple of rooms and can compete to see who does the best.
go to a theme park
A theme park is a fun and easy idea to do with your friends on your birthday!
BAR HOPPING
Now that you’re 21, spend your birthday bar hopping with your friends in your town or a new city. This is such a fun nighttime activity for your birthday!
Party ideas for her
go bowling
For a fun activity for your birthday, go bowling with all your friends. This is a good party idea if you want to invite a lot of people, because you guys can just get a bunch of lanes next to each other to stay together the whole time.
go axe throwing
Axe throwing is a super fun activity to take all your friends to for your 21st!
drive in theater
If you have a drive in theater near you, have all your friends carpool to the movie and watch together! You can all get your favorite snacks and candy for the movie too.
go to the nail salon
The nail salon with all of your friends is such a cute and easy idea for your 21st birthday. It doesn’t take much prep or planning, so it’s a super perfect idea if you are looking for something last minute.
go on a shopping spree
Who wouldn’t want a shopping spree for their birthday. Take a couple of your closest friends and have fun shopping at your favorite stores with them.
have a fashion show
If you don’t quite have the money to take yourself on a shopping spree, you can instead do a little fashion show at home with your friends. Have everyone pick some of their favorite outfits and you can spend some time pampering each other before the fashion show!
host a sleepover
A sleepover is a classic birthday party idea! Invite all your closest friends and have them all spend the night. You can also use some of the other 21st birthday ideas from this list for some activities during your sleepover to make it a super fun night.
This post was all about things to do on a 21st birthday!
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Ideas for a Memorable 21st Birthday
Planning a memorable 21st birthday can be a fun and exciting task. Whether you're organizing a party for yourself or a friend, there are plenty of ideas to make the celebration special. From house parties to themed events, here are some suggestions to consider:
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House Party: Throwing a house party is a classic choice for a 21st birthday celebration. It allows you to invite all your friends and create a fun atmosphere in the comfort of your own home. You can enhance the party experience by incorporating other ideas such as party themes, activities, and delicious food [[1]].
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Video Game Party: If you or the birthday person loves gaming, a video game party can be a fantastic idea. Gather your friends and spend the day playing your favorite games together [[2]].
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Spa Day: An at-home spa day is a perfect way to pamper yourself and celebrate your 21st birthday. You can invite your closest friends and enjoy activities like nail painting, facials, and relaxation [[3]].
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PowerPoint Night: Hosting a PowerPoint night can be a unique and hilarious way to celebrate a 21st birthday. Ask your friends to create presentations about the birthday person, resulting in a fun-filled evening [[4]].
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Game Night: A classic game night is a budget-friendly option that allows you to enjoy a variety of board games, card games, or party games with your friends [[5]].
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Costume Party: Organizing a costume party adds an element of fun and creativity to a 21st birthday celebration. You can choose a specific theme or let everyone go wild with their costume choices [[6]].
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Party Decorations: To create a festive atmosphere, consider adding decorations such as temporary tattoos, photo booths with props, LED signs, birthday banners, and balloons [[7]] [[8]] [[9]].
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Food Ideas: Food plays a crucial role in any celebration. Here are some food-related ideas for a 21st birthday party:
- Fancy Brunch: Arrange a fancy brunch either at home or at a restaurant to enjoy a classy and delicious meal [[10]].
- Hire a Private Chef: For a more extravagant party, consider hiring a private chef to prepare a special meal for you and your guests [[11]].
- Cooking Themed Party: Host a cooking party where you and your friends can prepare and enjoy a meal together. You can do this at home or find a venue that offers cooking parties [[12]].
- Picnic: Plan a picnic in a beautiful outdoor location and bring your favorite foods to share with your friends [[13]].
- Tea Party: Have a sophisticated tea party either at a tea house or at home. It's a delightful way to celebrate with your girlfriends [[14]].
- Drunk Barbie Cake: Add humor to the celebration by getting a drunk barbie cake, which can be a funny and memorable centerpiece [[15]].
- Food Tour: Explore local restaurants and eateries with your friends by going on a food tour. It's a great way to try different cuisines and celebrate your birthday [[16]].
- Wine Tasting: If you enjoy wine, consider going for a wine tasting experience to celebrate your 21st birthday [[17]].
- Fondue Night: Host a fondue night at home, either with cheese or chocolate fondue, for a delicious and interactive party experience [[18]].
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Outdoorsy Party Ideas: If you prefer outdoor activities, here are some ideas to consider:
- Camping: Spend a night or two camping with your friends for a memorable outdoor adventure [[19]].
- Sports Day: Organize a day filled with your favorite sports and outdoor activities. You can even divide into teams and keep score for added competition [[20]].
- Road Trip: Embark on a road trip with your closest friends to explore new places and create lasting memories [[21]].
- Pool Party: A classic pool party is always a fun choice, especially during the summer months. Invite your friends for a day of swimming and relaxation [[22]].
- Ropes Course: If there's a ropes course nearby, challenge yourself and your friends to complete the course together. It's a thrilling and bonding experience [[23]].
- Bonfire: Host a bonfire and enjoy making s'mores with your friends. It's a cozy and budget-friendly way to celebrate your 21st birthday [[24]].
- Beach Day: If your birthday falls during the summer, gather your friends and spend the day at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the water [[25]].
- Booze Cruise: Consider celebrating your 21st birthday with a fancy booze cruise. It's a unique and memorable way to enjoy the night with your friends [[26]].
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Fun Party Ideas: Here are some additional fun ideas to make your 21st birthday celebration special:
- Party Bus: Rent a party bus and enjoy a private party on wheels with your friends. It's a fun and exciting way to celebrate your birthday [[27]].
- Sports Game: Attend a live sports game of your favorite team with your friends. It's a thrilling experience that combines sports and celebration [[28]].
- Show: If there are shows or performances happening near you, consider going out with your friends to watch your favorite show [[29]].
- Karaoke Bar: Sing your heart out at a karaoke bar with your friends. It's a lively and entertaining way to celebrate your 21st birthday [[30]].
- Escape Room: Challenge your problem-solving skills by visiting an escape room with your closest friends. It's a thrilling and immersive experience [[31]].
- Theme Park: Spend the day at a theme park, enjoying thrilling rides and attractions with your friends [[32]].
- Bar Hopping: Now that you're of legal drinking age, explore different bars and venues with your friends for a night of celebration and fun [[33]].
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Party Ideas for Her: If you're looking for specific ideas for a female birthday celebration, here are a few suggestions:
- Bowling: Go bowling with your friends for a fun and active birthday activity [[34]].
- Axe Throwing: Try axe throwing with your friends for a unique and exciting birthday experience [[35]].
- Drive-In Theater: If there's a drive-in theater nearby, organize a movie night with your friends. It's a nostalgic and enjoyable way to celebrate your birthday [[36]].
- Nail Salon: Treat yourself and your friends to a visit to the nail salon for a pampering session [[37]].
- Shopping Spree: Enjoy a shopping spree with your closest friends, exploring your favorite stores and treating yourself to new items [[38]].
- Fashion Show: Host a fashion show at home, where you and your friends can showcase your favorite outfits and have fun with styling [[39]].
- Sleepover: Organize a sleepover with your closest friends, complete with movies, snacks, and quality time together [[40]].
Remember, the most important aspect of planning a 21st birthday celebration is to create an experience that reflects the birthday person's interests and preferences. Whether it's a small gathering or a big party, the goal is to make it a memorable and enjoyable occasion for everyone involved.
