50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (2024)

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50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (1)

By Alexia Dellner

Published Jan 19, 2022

Additional reporting by

Emma Singer

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Proof that things get better with age: fine wine, cheese, your 401(k) and, of course, you. Now that you’re entering your 50s, you know exactly what you want and how you like it. Except when it comes to how to celebrate the big five-oh in the midst of a (neverending) pandemic, that is. But don’t fret—just check your local health and safety guidelines, assess your personal comfort zone and choose how to commemorate this fabulous milestone with some help from our list of brilliant 50th birthday party ideas that includes both in-person and virtual options.

Editor's note: Per the CDC, the best way to minimize COVID risk and ensure that people can safely gather is to get vaccinated or get the booster if you’re eligible. And before gathering with friends and family, the CDC also suggests testing in advance and avoiding crowded indoor spaces.

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50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (2)

Twenty20

1. Go Out for Brunch with Your Besties

Stock up on orange juice and bubbly and start perfecting your baked eggs, or just set up a bagel bar and enlist someone else to do the fancy cooking (and the clean up). Either way, an intimate, preferably boozy, brunch with a few of your besties is a wonderful way to celebrate your fiftieth trip around the sun.

2. Host a Backyard Barbecue

Gather your nearest and dearest for a fun afternoon of delicious food, great music and socializing. Make it as casual (burgers and franks) or epic (roast a whole pig) as you like. But again, asking friends and family to help out is essential.

3. Do A Virtual Wine Tasting

Ideally, you would be chauffeured around Napa Valley while sampling the region’s finest offerings, but the current circumstances (ahem, Omicron) needn’t stop you from sipping the very best (and learning something along the way, of course). There are plenty of top-notch wine professionals around the country offering virtual wine tastings that can be experienced from the comfort of your couch—and that doesn’t sound half bad, does it?

4. Enjoy a Tea Party

Go on and host your own tea party. (Yep, you’re a real class act.) The event can take place indoors or alfresco, depending on your comfort level. Plus, the mini sandwiches, warm scones and pretty pastries can all be prepared or bought in advance and assembled just before guests arrive.

5. Try a Tasting Menu at a Fancy Restaurant

If there was ever a time to splurge on a Michelin-starred dinner (or a meal at any chichi locale), it’s on your 50th birthday—and it just so happens that some of the most exclusive restaurants around are currently offering outdoor seating or the option to have said fine dining experience delivered right to your door.

6. Hire a Personal Chef to Cook at Home

Want something a little more low-key (but still totally delicious)? Get a chef to prepare a mouthwatering meal for you at home for an intimate and stress-free soirée that’s sure to make you feel extra special.

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (3)

Johannes Kaut / EyeEm/Getty Images

7. Check out a Brewery

Chances are good that a local brewery near you gives tours—and offers tasty eats. Call ahead to book your spot and ask about other perks (e.g., many are dog- and child-friendly and some even have live music). Bonus: Many breweries feature outdoor tastings.

8. Throw a ’50s-Themed Party

Go all in on turning 50 with a decade-inspired bash. Think diner food (like burgers and root beer floats), sock-hop decor and Elvis Presley or doo-wop on the record player. Bring on the poodle skirts and saddle shoes, all you T-Birds and Pink Ladies.

9. Have A Birthday Roast

We’re not talking about the kind you eat. Yep, you’re the one who’s going to get roasted. Our advice? Be sure to invite a diverse group of family and friends to the Zoom party, pour yourself a big glass of wine and get ready to swallow your pride…and do a few spit takes. This will be a birthday bash (pun intended) to remember.

10. Take a Cooking Class

Have you ever wanted to learn how to make sushi? Or marveled at those delightful macarons in the bakery window? Or maybe every time you carve a roast chicken you curse yourself for not knowing the proper method. A quick Google search will reveal numerous virtual cooking classes, as well as professional culinary educators nearby who will teach a class for you and a group of friends to attend in your very own home.

11. Plan a Murder Mystery

Why go to a regular old dinner party when you can enjoy an evening of murder and mayhem instead? Whether you host your own (you can get a murder mystery kit here) or book a professional party, this whodunnit evening will be an unforgettable birthday experience.

12. Make It Black Tie

Take things up a notch and celebrate in style by asking guests to don their most sophisticated attire. Whether you hire a private space or turn your living room into a ballroom, formal evening wear is required.

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (4)

vgajic/Getty Images

13. Enjoy a Spa Day

If you want to make it a social event, invite a few friends to your pad and either a) hire a professional aesthetician or masseuse to do their thing, or b) go the DIY route with a pre-party shopping spree for new products that you and your besties can test (while sipping on bubbly in bathrobes, of course). Feeling low key? No problem—just enjoy the pleasure of your own company at a local salon instead. Either way, a few hours of pampering is on the menu.

14. Go for a Weekend Away

Get out of town for a mini-break to check out some new sites, enjoy the local cuisine and feel inspired by being in a new place—physically and figuratively—even if it’s just a few hours away by car.

15. Have A Bake-off

Host your own Great British Baking Show spin-off featuring all your nearest and dearest. It goes something like this: You share your vision for the perfect birthday cake—keep it vague and supply no recipe—and your friends compete to see who can best approximate your dream dessert in the allotted amount of time. As for you…just sit back and watch the chaos unfold while sipping on a cocktail until it's time to swing by for a sample of each slice.

16. Check out a Virtual Comedy Show

Grab your friends and laugh your way into a new year with a virtual comedy show. The best part is you won’t even have to worry about being seated in the first row.

17. Throw a Fondue Party

A little bit retro, a lot delicious. Here are five cheesy ways to get started. (And don’t worry—your vegan friends can join in on the fun too.)

18. Have an Online Trivia Night

The bar scene isn’t exactly popping off right now, but chances are that isn’t your jam anymore anyways. Still, a lively trivia night is everyone’s cup of tea, so why not recreate the event online with a group of friends? Pro tip: Plan ahead and pick a theme if you wish (and yes, the theme can totally be you).

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (5)

Sofie Delauw/Getty Images

19. Take an Art Class

Whether you’re a budding Picasso or your talents peaked in the third grade, getting in touch with your artistic side is fun and relaxing all at once. We’re especially fans of sip-and-paint events that allow you to sample chardonnay as you color, but you can easily take care of that yourself if you opt for a virtual art class.

20. Have a Game Night

There’s no need to learn the rules of bridge overnight. Instead, bring out the board games (we’re partial to Catan or good old-fashioned Trivial Pursuit) and play the night away.

21. Take a Food Tour

Calling all foodies: Check out some of your town’s best eats by going on a food tasting and cultural walking tour. Most big cities offer them, and they’re usually themed by neighborhood or cuisine, but you can also research your own route if you prefer.

22. Spend a Day at the Races

Mint juleps and outrageous hats required. (Note: Even if this one is outdoors, you should check with the venue beforehand about Covid-specific guidelines.)

23. Go on a Yoga Retreat

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a novice, both your body and mind will thank you for stretching your muscles with some yoga in a beautiful destination.

24. Tailgate

Does your birthday coincide with football season? For mega fans, a tailgate can be a fun way to celebrate—especially with elevated recipes like spinach artichoke squares or spicy glazed popcorn chicken. You can even recreate the sporting event experience at home with a driveway tailgate and home viewing of the game, if you so choose.

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (6)

kali9/Getty Images

25. Run (or Walk) a Race

We’re not talking about a marathon here (unless you want to, of course). Even a fun run will be, erm, fun. A slice (or two) of cake will definitely be deserved.

26. Learn How to Whip Up Your Favorite Cocktail

Take an online mixology class or hire an expert for an in-person lesson—either way, you’ll be able to impress friends and family with your newfound bartending skills. One Manhattan, coming up.

27. Throw a Casino Party

Bring Vegas to you by hiring a card dealer, dimming the lights and betting for cash (we’re talking pennies or quarters). You can even buy a felt poker table top to add to the ambience. For those who don’t want to learn how to play poker, keep things simple with a game of blackjack.

28. Set Sail

You’ve been busy these past few years—take some time and relax. And what better place to do exactly that than aboard a sailboat surrounded by friends and family? Whether you go for the morning, evening or entire weekend, you’ll be ready to start the year in a tranquil frame of mind.

29. Throw a Dance Party

Because you’ve still got it.

30. Chill Out on the Beach

Spend the day soaking up the sun and then make a fire pit at dusk.

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (7)

Daniel Milchev/Getty Images

31. Go for a Hike

Make a weekend of it and trek to the top of a mountain or just enjoy a leisurely stroll in nature. Either way, you’ll definitely deserve a piece of birthday cake when you’re done.

32. Ride a Hot Air Balloon

A champagne toast at 3,000 feet? Now that’s how you celebrate turning 50.

33. Root for the Home Team at a Sporting Event

If you can spring for it, score box seats and avoid the crowds. Also, we’re not saying your companions have to pay for a special message to appear on the scoreboard, but send them this list and they just might make it happen.

34. Throw a ‘Favorite Things’ Bash

It’s your party and you’ll eat cacio e pepe and watch Golden Girls if you want to. Make a list of your favorite things to eat, see, play or do and put them all together in a fabulous event.

35. Go Glamping

It’s the best way to enjoy Mother Nature. Research glamping sites near you that offer luxurious rooms (toilets and showers are a must) and upscale amenities.

36. Go Gallery Hopping

Discover the local art scene with a group of friends and see if you can find a piece to bring home to commemorate the occasion.

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (8)

Julie Toy/Getty Images

37. Take a Museum Tour

You don’t stop learning just because you get older (but you knew that already). Call ahead to see if they offer private tours or try a virtual experience instead for an afternoon of learning and culture with your closest friends.

38. Try Your Hand at Glassblowing

Get crafty and learn how to make your own tumblers, trinkets and more with a glassblowing class.

39. Enjoy a Staycation

You don’t need to hop on a plane to go on vacation. Book a five-star hotel nearby, order room service and—ahh—relax.

40. Go See a Show

Whether theater, ballet or opera, a night enjoying the performing arts is sure to be a night to remember.

41. Get a Tattoo

A fun—and perhaps totally unexpected—way to celebrate this milestone. (Just imagine the look on your kids’ faces when you show them.)

42. Purge Your Closet

Organizing is fun. And so is shopping for a new wardrobe. Get inspired to find a new look here.

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (9)

Yuji Ozeki/Getty Images

43. Volunteer for a Good Cause

In lieu of gifts, ask your loved ones to give up their time to a cause that’s dear to your heart instead. It could be volunteering at an animal shelter, tutoring kids or helping build a home. You can even volunteer virtually these days. It’s a great bonding experience that you—and others—will be sure to remember. (And you can still go out for brunch after.)

44. Go to the Movies

Rent out the theater to make it a big event…or not. Watching a double bill at home also sounds like a great way to spend an evening. Pass the popcorn.

45. Arrange a Fetching Floral Bouquet

Flower design is an art form, but luckily, you can master it with a helping hand. Research classes near you and get ready to transform your home with your beautiful handiwork.

46. Make It a Costume Party

Dressing up isn’t just for Halloween, you know—and in case you missed it, masks are so in right now. (Psst: Here’s where to find N95 and KN95 masks online right now.) Pick a theme (your favorite film, a moment in time, whatever) or let your guests dress up however they choose.

47. Throw a Golden Bash

Fifty is known as the golden jubilee year, so go all in on the theme by getting shimmering decorations, serving sparkling wine, donning your finest gold gown and whipping up these champagne doughnuts. (And if someone wants to gift you a gold necklace, well, who are you to stop them?)

48. Go Bowling

This throwback activity just might become a new favorite with friends and family. Up the fun factor by making personalized bowling shirts to celebrate the birthday gal.

49. Host a Cocktail Party

Throwing a dinner party is a lot of work. But a sophisticated cocktail soirée, on the other hand, can easily be thrown together with the help of some day-before planning (and perhaps that virtual mixology class you treated yourself to).

50. Check Something Off Your Bucket List

Skydiving? Snow tubing? Adopting a puppy? Whatever’s on your bucket list, just go for it.

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50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (10)

Alexia Dellner

Executive Editor

Alexia Dellner is an executive editor at PureWow who has over ten years of experience covering a broad range of topics including health, wellness, travel, family, culture and...

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50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (11)

Emma Singer

Freelance PureWow Editor

Emma Singer is a freelance contributing editor and writer at PureWow who has over 7 years of professional proofreading, copyediting and writing experience. At PureWow, she covers...

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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

I am an expert and enthusiast assistant. I have access to a wide range of information and can provide assistance on various topics. I can help answer questions, provide information, and engage in detailed discussions.

Regarding the concepts used in this article, here is some information related to them:

  • 50th birthday party ideas: The article suggests various ideas for celebrating a 50th birthday, both in-person and virtually. Some ideas include going out for brunch with friends, hosting a backyard barbecue, doing a virtual wine tasting, enjoying a tea party, trying a tasting menu at a fancy restaurant, hiring a personal chef to cook at home, checking out a brewery, throwing a '50s-themed party, having a birthday roast, taking a cooking class, planning a murder mystery, and many more [[1]].

  • COVID-19 guidelines: The article mentions the importance of checking local health and safety guidelines when planning a celebration during the pandemic. It suggests following the recommendations of the CDC, such as getting vaccinated or getting the booster if eligible, testing in advance, and avoiding crowded indoor spaces [[1]].

  • Virtual events: The article suggests several virtual celebration ideas, such as virtual wine tastings, virtual comedy shows, online trivia nights, virtual art classes, and more. These ideas allow people to celebrate while maintaining social distancing and following safety guidelines [[1]].

  • In-person events: The article also provides ideas for in-person celebrations, such as brunch with friends, backyard barbecues, tasting menus at restaurants, brewery visits, tea parties, and more. These ideas may require following local health and safety guidelines and considering the comfort level of participants [[1]].

Please let me know if you would like more information on any specific topic or if there's anything else I can assist you with!

50 Totally Inspired 50th Birthday Party Ideas (2024)

FAQs

How do you make a 50th special? ›

Events and Activities
  1. Try a Pedal Pub. ...
  2. Get Out of an Escape Room. ...
  3. Celebrate at a Music Festival. ...
  4. Hit a Karaoke Bar. ...
  5. Set Sail for a Booze Cruise. ...
  6. Check Something Off the Bucket List. ...
  7. Check Out a Comedy Club. ...
  8. Enjoy Live Music and Dancing.
Feb 12, 2024

What is the color for turning 50? ›

Gold is traditionally the color associated with 50th birthdays because 50 is considered the “golden age”.

What theme for 50? ›

50th Birthday Party Themes

While “50 and fabulous” could be a birthday theme itself, feel free to tie in other creative party themes. For instance, you could go with a vintage birthday party or a retro decade-themed party — like a groovy 70s theme party, a totally awesome 80s party, or rad 90s theme party.

What can a woman do for her 50th birthday? ›

Fifty BIG Ideas to celebrate a very special 50th Birthday
  • Or book out your favourite small restaurant for just you and your friends. ...
  • Indulge in a spa day. ...
  • Go on a yoga retreat. ...
  • Take it to the river. ...
  • Sleep with the Lions. ...
  • Get all crafty. ...
  • Or learn how to cook something you've always loved. ...
  • Take in a show.

What is traditional for 50th birthday? ›

The 50th birthday uses gold as a traditional theme because it's symbolic of the timeless quality you develop in those 50 years. Gold is valuable, coveted, and beautiful.

Is there a flower for 50th birthday? ›

Symbolising love with their deep red hues, red roses are a wonderful choice for 50th birthdays.

What is the symbol for 50th birthday? ›

The 50th birthday is a significant milestone that symbolizes half a century of life experiences, achievements, and personal growth. It often represents wisdom gained through years of learning and may be celebrated with a golden theme to signify the Golden Anniversary of one's birth.

Is gold the color for 50th birthday? ›

1) Color. Milestone birthdays usually have a color scheme. Fifty is commonly known as the golden age, so gold is a color that many incorporate into party decor. Other complementary colors for 50th birthday party decor include red, silver, and purple.

Is 50 a milestone 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.

What color do you decorate with for a 50th birthday party? ›

The quintessential color combination for a 50th birthday is black and gold. While black symbolizes elegance and formality, gold adds a touch of celebration and grandeur. Together, they create a harmonious blend that reflects the significance of reaching the golden milestone.

Do you bring a gift to a 50th birthday party? ›

It's always courteous to give a gift when you're invited to a birthday party unless the host specifically states not to give a gift. Gift cards, paying for the meal or buying a drink are some great suggestions for an adult, and if you're still in doubt, ask the host for some reccomended suggestions.

What do you say to a woman on her 50th birthday? ›

I'm celebrating every one of the 50 years that have made you the strong, amazing woman you are. Your 50th birthday makes me look back on all we've shared through the years and feel more lucky and grateful than ever to have you in my life.

What does turning 50 mean to a woman? ›

At age 50 and beyond, many women feel more grateful for each passing day, more confident in their decisions, and more able to make better choices about how to spend their time. But age 50 is also when aging starts to take its toll on your physical health, experts say, prompting changes that can be unexpected.

What should I do for my wife's 50th birthday? ›

There's plenty of simple and creative ideas for a fabulous 50th birthday party for the women in your life.
  • Dinner Date. There's nothing wrong with a classic dinner date, especially if it's something the birthday girl loves! ...
  • Paint Night. ...
  • A Night at the Casino. ...
  • Surprise Party. ...
  • Murder Mystery Dinner.
Jan 31, 2020

Is 50th birthday gold or silver? ›

It's when you turn double the age of the day you were born on, (turning 24 on the 12th). Turning 50 has also been considered a golden birthday year, and many people choose to decorate with black and gold.

Is turning 50 the golden age? ›

As the old saying goes, “life begins at 40”, but recent trends suggest that 50 could be the age we really start to enjoy life. By this age, many of us feel more confident than ever before and are in a position to start getting the most from life.

Are there colors for birthdays? ›

Birth Color by Month

January Colors—Dark Red / Garnet. February Colors—Purple / Amethyst. March Colors—Light Blue / Aquamarine. April Colors—Silver / Clear / Diamond.

What color represents age 60? ›

Black and White. Black and white are traditional colors used for 60th birthdays. If you are considering black and white colors for yourDiamond jubilee birthday decoration and celebration, it adds up the pleasure and elegance of your party. Black color represents elegance, sophistication and ingenuity.

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