It's a momentous occasion!
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You're 50 and fabulous—so why not throw a birthday bash to match? If you don't already have plans for your big milestone birthday or if you're planning someone else's, we're here to help you think of a fun way to ring in the new decade with these best 50th birthday party ideas. From the overall theme down to the smallest detail, this guide has what you need to plan the party of your dreams.
Whether you love the great outdoors or prefer the comfort of your own home, we've got you covered with dozens of great party themes. If you're having a summer party, there are plenty of warm-weather ideas here, like a beach bash, a camping trip, or a backyard barbecue. As for fall party ideas, you could plan a group hike, go horseback riding, or host a cozy wine and cheese pairing.
And if you don't love large gatherings, you'll find that all of these ideas can be just as enjoyable with small groups and a few thoughtful 50th birthday gifts. (Slumber party, anyone?) What's more, while you can absolutely copy one of these ideas to a T, you can also use them as starting points to dream up your ideal 50th birthday party celebration. But no matter how you decide to commemorate the milestone occasion, just remember this: turning 50 is a blessing. So, what are you waiting for? Write out a birthday card—it's time to celebrate!
1
Host a Wine and Cheese Party
What's not to love about wine and cheese? You can go all out with a wine tasting and paired cheeses or set up a big charcuterie board and let everyone snack on what they wish for something more casual.
2
Book a Spa Retreat with Your Best Friends
Spend your 50th birthday relaxing on a spa retreat with your closest friends or family members. You can stay close to home or visit a destination on your bucket list. Either way, you'll be sure to unwind as you celebrate!
3
Go Horseback Riding
Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or just love a good outdoor adventure, a horseback ride with your friends would be such a special way to mark your big day. There are plenty of trails and options for all skill levels.
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4
Skydiving Party
Have you always wanted to try skydiving? Take the plunge to ring in your 50th birthday in true thrill-seeking style. Go by yourself and have a party cheering you on or bring them to the sky with you!
5
Host a '70s-Themed Flower Power Party
Celebrate your 5oth birthday with a retro, flower-power themed party that would have been very on-trend when you were born or lived in the 70s. This daisy tablescape is the perfect inspiration!
See more on Aww Sam.
6
Go Glamping with Friends
If camping sounds appealing to you but you're not thrilled about the idea of spending the night in a sleeping bag, consider going glamping instead. Many offerings come with beds, electricity, and access to indoor plumbing. They're practically hotels!
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7
Throw a Disco Extravaganza
Boogie the night away with your BFFs at a disco party complete with a lit-up disco ball and all of your favorite '70s dance hits. You'll be the dancing queen of the night!
See more on Aww Sam.
8
Host a Casual Brunch
You many not want to party all night long for your 50th, but you can party all day long if you want! Hosting a brunch party can be super casual and any time of day. Just do yourself a favor and setup a mimosa bar so everyone can serve themselves.
9
Throw a Slumber Party
How fun were slumber parties when you were a kid? You invite your best friends over for a night of movies, snacks, gossip, and games. Why wouldn't you (and everyone invited!) enjoy it just as much now?
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10
Host a Beauty-Themed Bash
Craving a little pampering for your 5oth? Invite your friends to a mani-pedi party at your place. This adorable nail polish cake will make the perfect centerpiece.
Get the recipe from Studio DIY!.
11
Throw an Outdoor Dinner Party
A dinner party under the stars (or string lights) is the perfect way to celebrate your special day with your closest friends and family. It's equal parts festive and laid-back.
12
Host a '90s Night
Celebrate your '90s glory days with a nostalgia-fueled birthday bash. Your song playlist will last all night long. Party time, excellent!
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13
Have a 'Pretty in Pink' Party
Throw it back even further to your teen years in the '80s with a Pretty in Pink party. This classic flick will have you and your guests feeling nostalgic in no time. Plus, there are plenty of fun ways to incorporate pink foods.
Get the recipe from Studio DIY!.
14
Cozy Up Around a Backyard Bonfire
Turning 50 means you likely have a lot of stories to tell. Why not cozy up around a backyard bonfire and share them with loved ones while toasting to the next 50 years?
See more ideas on A Beautiful Mess.
15
Invite Friends to a Delicious Pizza Party
Pizza parties never go out of style. And since it's a special occasion, go beyond your usual pizza delivery and bake this pizza cake, too. Despite its appearance, it's sweet as can be!
Get the recipe from Studio DIY!.
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16
Go for a Group Hike
Another outdoorsy option is to throw on your favorite hiking boots and head out on a hike with your friends and family. Whether you want to walk a mile or trek 14, there's no denying the satisfaction that comes from summiting.
17
Enjoy a Vintage-Themed Get-Together
Truly, how cute is this Jell-O cake? The recipe is from a 1978 magazine, so it's totally possible you enjoyed this exact treat, or one like it, as a child. All of its retro glory is enough to make us want to throw our very own vintage-themed 50th birthday party!
Get the recipe from Aww Sam.
18
Have Fun with a Taco-Filled Fiesta
Whether it's Taco Tuesday or any other day of the week, having a fun fiesta with a taco bar is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And just wait until you see their faces when this taco cake rolls out!
Get the recipe from Studio DIY!
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19
Throw a Picnic Party
Roll out the red checkered blanket and invite your nearest and dearest to a picnic party in your honor. You can make your own spread or order your favorite takeout for a fun treat.
20
Host an Outdoor Movie Night
Movie nights are a simple pleasure that often get overlooked. Make this one even more memorable by hosting a Blockbuster-esque get-together in your backyard—complete with popcorn and other snacks, of course.
Rebecca Norris
Contributing Writer
Rebecca Ravee Norris is a freelance writer with a decade's worth of lifestyle media experience. Based out of the Washington metropolitan area, she covers everything from beauty and wellness to style and celebrity news. She is a graduate of George Mason University and has a B.A. in Media: Production, Consumption, and Critique, along with a minor in Electronic Journalism. When she's not writing, she can be found with her beloved Jack-Chi, Cash, working through reps at the gym, dreaming up her next home decor project, testing a new recipe, getting lost in the pages of a book, or catching up on her favorite shows.
Tierney McAfee
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment,holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
