50 Fantastic 50th Birthday Party Ideas
So the big 5-0 is coming up, and you're looking for a 50th birthday party idea that will feel different from the bar hopping and group dinner thing you've done for the past 30 years.
A 50th birthday party is a joyous recognition of a half-century lived and wisdom earned. It’s an opportunity to draw friends and family near, to reminisce and to make new memories together.
You deserve a truly extraordinary and exceptional 50th birthday party to kick off a new decade. You deserve a celebration worthy of 50 years of being you. Most of all, you deserve to have some fun!
Ready to usher in your golden decade? Here are 50 fantastic 50th birthday party ideas that will make this your best birthday bash yet.
Jump to Section
- 50th Birthday Ideas for Foodies
- 50th Birthday Tours, Tastings and Classes
- Party Ideas for a 50th Birthday
- 50th Birthday Events and Activities
- Sports and Outdoor 50th Birthday Ideas
- Health and Wellness 50th Birthday Ideas
- 50th Birthday Party FAQs
50th Birthday Ideas for Foodies
1. Indulge in a Michelin-Quality Meal
Treat yourself to a Michelin-quality meal made by a private chef for an all-out indulgent 50th party. No matter what you’re craving, there’s a signature private chef experience for you. These multi-course menus feature incredible, high-quality dishes prepared for you by some of the best chefs in the country.
Chefs arrive at your location of choice with all of the necessary ingredients and equipment to prepare a gourmet meal. They'll even clean up before they leave!
From private chefs in Houston to private chefs in San Diego, it’s easier than you expected to enjoy restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home. Find a private chef experience near you today and make your celebration a culinary extravaganza that will be remembered for years to come.
2. Throw a Homemade Pizza Party
Nothing beats homemade pizza. And making pizza from scratch is easier than you think. It’s even more fun when you turn it into a party!
Thanks to pizza making classes, you and your friends can learn tips and tricks from pro chefs for making handmade pizzas as a fun 50th party idea. Learn the secrets behind the perfect pizza dough, then choose from a wide array of both vegetarian and carnivorous combinations.
3. Start the Day With Brunch
Whether as a 50th birthday party idea or for a regular Sunday outing, brunch is always a great idea. There’s no better way to kick off a new decade than surrounded by your favorite people, eating elegant and indulgent fare, and sipping a mimosa or building your own bloody mary.
To really up the ante, why not brush up on your brunch skills in a hands-on cooking class? You'll find cooking classes in DC, cooking classes in Philadelphia and beyond. There are even fun couples-oriented options for a romantic birthday brunch, such as date night cooking classes in New Orleans. Browse all cooking classes near you to get started.
4. Host a Hand Roll Sushi Party
Celebrate the big 5-0 at home in Japanese fashion with a proper hand roll sushi party. Taking a sushi making class promises to be a fun-filled 50th birthday party idea guaranteed to satisfy everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Learn how to make perfect sushi rice, prepare your fillings and pick the best toppings for your rolls. This 50th birthday party idea will also allow you the opportunity to get acquainted with the complex flavor and sweet, pungent quality of fresh wasabi to kick things up a notch.
5. Savor Fancy Cocktail Party Hors d’oeuvres
An amazing birthday party dinner doesn't always need to include five courses. Instead, throw a cocktail party for a delicious and fuss-free 50th birthday. Get creative with finger food ideas, offering a wide array that's impressive in both taste and presentation.
Some classics you can never go wrong with include crostini, crab cakes with remoulade and shrimp cocktail, as well as stuffed mushrooms and deviled eggs. With so much flavor on the table, this dinner party idea is sure to make for a memorable celebration.
6. Enjoy an Al Fresco Farm-To-Table Dinner
If you aren’t sure how to host your first dinner party, you may want to organize something that requires less planning. Why not take it outside for an unforgettable al fresco 50th birthday party?
Farm dinners are a radical alternative to stale birthday dinner parties. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal created at the source, where you and your friends and family can dine at one long table set between earth and sky. Book a seat at the table with Outstanding in the Field.
7. Have a Backyard Grill and Chill
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned American cookout. So fire up the grill and have a classic backyard barbecue filled with food, fun, friends and family for a 50th birthday everyone will love.
Not a skilled grillmaster? Executive chefs and other culinary experts have put out a plethora of information on how to barbecue like a pro. Before you know it, you'll be armed with the know-how behind perfectly grilled chicken, kabobs and even desserts.
8. Organize a Cheese Tasting and Fondue Party
Yes: a things-on-skewers-dunked-into-a-vat-of-melted-cheese party. A cheese tasting and fondue party is a great 50th birthday party idea that doesn’t involve subjecting yourself to elaborate recipes. Plus, you can encourage guests to bring their favorite cheese or something funky they’ve always wanted to try.
9. Try a Taste of Authentic Spanish Tapas
Explore the flavors of Spain with a trip through an authentic tapas menu. Organize a tapas-themed birthday party by highlighting iconic, elegant flavor profiles of popular Spanish cuisine.
Some favorites include pa amb tomàquet, gambas al ajillo, patatas bravas and tuna-stuffed peppers. Most importantly, each dish is designed to be shared among good company for one of the tastiest 50th birthday party ideas out there.
10. Have a Hawaiian Luau Pig Roast
Maybe you can't jet off to Hawaii for your 50th birthday, but you can add the spirit of the islands to your gathering at home. Host a Hawaiian luau and proper pig roast for the ultimate lei’d back 50th birthday party celebration.
11. Relax During a Picnic
Skip the noisy restaurant and lay out a 50th birthday party picnic instead. Find the perfect park or rent a picnic area for the day, get creative with fun drinks and picnic food ideas, and prepare classic picnic games like wheelbarrow relays and egg-and-spoon races.
Never mind your local park, this idea is a no-brainer for your 50th birthday party if you live close to one of the best picnic spots around the world. If you’re interested in picnicking as a birthday date idea with your partner, don’t forget to add a poetry book, Champagne, strawberries and cream to the checklist.
12. Enjoy a Progressive Dinner Party
Ever heard of a progressive dinner party? This unique experience comprises different courses being served at different homes or locations, transforming a basic meal into a fun and engaging activity. This moving feast is a great 50th birthday party idea that offers hours of entertainment with a limited amount of prep work.
It's a great birthday party idea and a way to entertain a group without one person having to shoulder the entire responsibility (or cost) of a multi-course dinner party.
If you really want to experiment and make it an unforgettable 50th birthday party, consider organizing a different dinner party theme for each location. That’ll give the fashion enthusiasts in your friendship group the opportunity to don numerous outfits.
50th Birthday Tours, Tastings and Classes
13. Go On a Food Tour
Stroll through local staples and hidden gems that capture the essence of classic home cooking, gourmet dining and international wonders.
Thanks to this fun 50th birthday party idea, you and your entourage can indulge in a unique culinary landscape and experience what your hometown has to offer by going on a food tour led by the city’s best guides. They’ll also be able to direct you to the spots where you can enjoy free birthday food.
Food tours are a great 50th birthday party idea and cater to every flavor palate and personality. You'll stop by local hotspots, sampling the best regional cuisine with the expertise of a local food expert. There are food tours in Chicago, food tours in Seattle and over 200 other cities. Find a food tour near you, and get ready to see your city in a whole new culinary light!
14. Sip Your Way Through a Virtual Wine Tasting
Enjoy a relaxing evening at home with a virtual wine tasting experience. You and your group will tune in to live wine tasting classes offered by experienced sommeliers and chefs from all over the world.
As if sampling incredible wines wasn’t enough, this 50th birthday party idea will also give you the opportunity to whip up delicious homemade appetizers or tapas that pair perfectly with each glass. There’s no need for the little ones to feel left out, as you can recreate this adult birthday party idea for them with non-alcoholic beverages and yummy snacks.
15. Take an Online Cooking Class
Whether you've got friends and family all living in different states or cities, or you're just wanting to stay in the comfort of your own home, an online cooking class is a great 50th birthday party idea that will bring everyone together.
You and a group of virtual attendees can follow along live as a professional chef shows you expert tips and techniques behind some of your favorite dishes. Learn to make restaurant-quality pizza, fresh pasta, authentic paella and more — right from your very own kitchen!
16. Treat Yourself to Cake Decorating
No 50th birthday party is complete without an over-the-top cake topped with glossy icing, sprinkles and the works. Learn how to bake and decorate a cake worthy of a 50th birthday party in an online cake decorating class.
You'll discover the secrets behind whipping up rich buttercream and fluffy sponge cake as the chef teaches you techniques for frosting, assembling and garnishing. Plus, you’ll also be able to pick their mind about delicious and equally magnificent birthday cake ideas. Go on, treat yourself! This idea really takes the cake.
17. Stir Up Some Fun in a Mixology Class
For a refreshing departure from the typical birthday bar scene, enjoy craft cocktail lessons and a crowd-free night out for a fun 50th birthday party. Learn the art of mixing the perfect cocktail and get your hands “dirty” making drinks and tasting your creations. Best of all, with online mixology classes, you don't even need to leave the house if you don't want to.
18. Register for a BYOB Art Class
For a fun 50th birthday party idea, celebrate your creativity by doing something creative. Invite your friends, sip your favorite beverage, and enjoy step-by-step instruction from experienced and enthusiastic local artists.
There are tons of options, from learning how to paint thanks to Painting With a Twist, to trying pottery or jewelry making. Plus, going with this idea for a 50th birthday party means you’ll leave with your very own one-of-a-kind creation.
Party Ideas for a 50th Birthday
19. Throw a "Golden Milestone" Party
Enter your golden age with an all-gold themed 50th birthday party. From décor to dress code, go all-out for your big day. Gold streamers, confetti, tableware and mylar balloons are the perfect additions to make the space sparkle. Don some gold garb to top off the look!
20. Go for Gold With an Olympic Party
This is one of those 50th birthday party ideas that will definitely strike gold. Organize a handful of dinner party games and an array of international party foods and drinks, and you’ve got a celebration that will carry the torch for years to come.
21. Deal Up a Casino Party
You can bet the house that a casino-themed birthday party is a surefire winner. The stakes are high when conjuring up 50th birthday party ideas, so don’t take a gamble on a lackluster theme for the big bash.
22. Have a Speakeasy Soirée
Known for luxury and excess, this makes the perfect theme for an out-of-this-era 50th birthday party. With a 20s-themed dress code, art deco décor, and plenty of bubbly, guests will talk about this celebration for years to come.
23. Throw a Masquerade Ball
Gentlemen, if you’re planning something for your better half, mother or sister, this is a popular birthday party theme for ladies.
Masked in mystery and draped in decadence, a masquerade ball is a birthday party idea that will be nothing short of magical. A 50th birthday party filled with secretive masks and elaborate costumes promises to be elegant and stylish while leaving plenty of room for creativity and a lot to the imagination.
24. Host a Murder Mystery Party
If you’re an inspector at heart, you’ll love this thrilling 50th birthday party idea. Why have a regular gathering when you can host a murder mystery dinner party?
Guests receive a detailed character description in their invitation along with some background information on the party. Everyone can arrive in character and start mingling and verbally sleuthing before a murder occurs. Dun dun duuunnnnn…
25. DIY a Double Feature Drive-In Movie Night
Though you might be hard-pressed to find an operational drive-in theater, it doesn’t take much to set up your own backyard movie night.
With the necessary fixings for a DIY outdoor movie theater, this 50th celebration idea will take flight in no time and have all your loved ones on board. All you need is a projector, a screen and all the proper concession stand fixings for a double-feature drive-in movie 50th birthday party.
26. Have a Board Game Night
Invite everyone to bring their favorite board game and rouse a little friendly competition for a fun 50th birthday party. Double down on game night with some wordplay featuring exotic game meats like alligator jerky, venison meatballs, deviled duck eggs and bison sliders.
However, if you’d rather leave the costly meats out of the equation, then suggestions for a 50th birthday party don’t get much more inexpensive than this. All you need to have a great time are a few basic snacks, a few picks among the best board games and a couple of drink choices.
And get this, playing board games reduces stress and boosts brainpower, according to The City of Asheville. Pretty cool, right?
27. Host a Black Tie Affair
A black tie 50th birthday party will always go down in the books as one to remember. Ask guests to dress to the nines, and instead of them scouring through 50th birthday gift ideas, make it a fundraiser and ask guests to donate to a charity of the birthday honoree’s choosing.
28. Throw a Flashback to the 50s Party
What about throwing a 50s party — as in the 1950s? Putting together a sock hop type thing is a great 50th birthday party idea, sure to be filled with great music, swinging poodle skirts and leather jackets galore.
50th Birthday Events and Activities
29. Try a Pedal Pub
Pedal pubs are all the rage for celebrations in towns lucky enough to have them, and they'd be unforgettable for a 50th birthday party idea. A pedal pub is essentially a small, mobile bar with roughly 15 seats that have pedals for the occupants to assist in traveling (if they feel like it; No worries if you'd rather just relax — there is an actual driver).
Chat and toast to the big 5-0 as you pedal along to whatever destinations delight you. Not sure where to find a set of wheels for you and your friends? If this idea for a 50th celebration sounds good to you, Pedal Pub (easy to remember) is your go-to, operating all across the U.S.
30. Get Out of an Escape Room
For the newly minted 50-year-old who enjoys puzzles, an escape room is the perfect 50th birthday party idea. Team up with friends and loved ones to search for clues that solve the mystery of how to get out of a locked room.
Best of all, escape rooms have themes for every type of personality under the sun. If this sounds good to you as a 50th birthday idea, The Escape Game has 49 locations across the U.S., all with rooms that have been strategically designed by game designers, engineers and other experts in the field.
31. Celebrate at a Music Festival
Music festivals come in all shapes and sizes and feature every genre of music under the sun. Find out what music festivals are scheduled on or near your big day for an amped-up 50th party. Your mind might automatically think of smaller, local events, but don’t you think a 50th birthday idea should be larger than life? Why not plan to head to one of the top music festivals in the world?
32. Hit a Karaoke Bar
Indulge late-night singing appetites and let your musical freak flags fly with this fun 50th birthday party idea. Karaoke bars possess the special ability to make even the shyest wallflower break out of their shell. Pick a few favorites from the best karaoke songs of all time and you’ll discover why this idea always makes for a great birthday party.
33. Set Sail for a Booze Cruise
Ahoy, party people! Why limit 50th birthday party ideas to dry land? From happy hour party boats to sunset cruises to moonlight coasting, make a splash with birthday booze cruises equipped with full bars, light bites, live music and popping dance floors to keep you afloat on your big day.
If you’re looking to really elevate your 50th party idea with a multi-day experience, the best party cruises promise to deliver, with events and amenities that will be anchored in your memory for years to come.
34. Check Something off the Bucket List
What’s on your bucket list? Skydiving? Learning how to scuba dive? We all have weird and wacky things we’d like to do in life, and this unique 50th birthday party idea provides the perfect opportunity for that.
No matter what still needs to be checked off your bucket list, there’s no better time than the present to do it. Pick one (or more) items on the list and turn them into a 50th birthday party that doubles up as a life goal achievement.
35. Check Out a Comedy Club
“I just really don’t like to laugh much,” said nobody, of any age, ever. Comedy clubs are often overlooked, but can make for memorable nights full of laughter. Consider checking out a local comedy club or show for your 50th birthday to help you laugh your way through turning another year older.
Or, if you want to take your laughs to new heights, journey to one of the best comedy clubs for laughs that will equate to an ab workout. Who knows? You may even end up being a part of the act on account of the special occasion.
36. Enjoy Live Music and Dancing
Instead of going bar hopping or clubbing to get your kicks, check out the best live music venues in your city for a jazzy 50th birthday party. No matter where you end up or what genre of music you find, a night of live music never fails to leave you feeling energized, inspired and ready to face 50 head-on.
Sports and the Outdoor 50th Birthday Ideas
37. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
No birthday party is complete without an abundance of balloons. But it’s time to take it up a notch (okay, many notches) and sail through the sky in a hot air balloon for a fun birthday idea that will take you to cloud nine.
Interested in this 50th party idea but not sure where to go? Try the seven best places to go on a hot air balloon ride for the most spectacular views that no cinema in the world could beat.
38. Get Groovy at Roller Disco
Roll on down to United Skates for a groovy 50th birthday party at the roller disco. Skate around the rink while the DJ spins your favorite disco and boogie tracks. Of course, 70s and 80s style costumes will not be optional.
39. See a Sporting Event
It doesn’t matter the sport, the teams playing, or even if it’s a pro or amateur game, a sporting event has all the makings of a winning birthday party idea, no matter the age. Don’t forget to kick it off with a 50th birthday tailgating party complete with all the best tailgate food and drinks.
40. Play Lawn Games
This 50th birthday party idea may sound boring, but you have no idea how much fun it prompts. Pick from corn hole, bocce ball, horseshoes or whatever else strikes your fancy. There are a host of lawn games that have all the makings for a great birthday party. And no, you’re never too old to play giant beer pong.
41. Float Down a Lazy River
Forgo waterslides and splash zones for relaxation, cocktails and refined floating. Whether you opt for a luxury resort where you can park your inner tube at the swim-up bar or go all natural, a float down a lazy river is one of the best 50th birthday party ideas ever pooled together.
42. Go Glamping
The older you get, the harder it is to convince your friends that camping is a good idea, whether it’s your 50th birthday party or not. Enter glamping, aka glamorous camping.
Glamping is where stunning nature meets modern luxury. It’s something your older and wiser cadre of friends can get behind. If you’re searching for 50th birthday party ideas for a woman, this may be a winner, as it’s a way to enjoy the natural world without roughing it up too much. Sound good to you? It will when you check out the most luxurious glamping retreats.
43. Get Rowdy at a Rodeo
Even if it’s your first rodeo, you’ll be roped in by all the fun and excitement it has to offer, which is why it makes for a great 50th birthday party idea. Add to the fun even more by having everyone dress up — cowboy boots and hats not optional.
44. Build a Beach Bonfire
A beach bonfire has magical abilities to transform any evening into a memorable occasion. Add together s’mores fixings, someone who knows how to build (and tend) a fire and snuggly blankets, as well as a full cooler, family and friends, and you have all the essentials to fire up a fun and relaxed birthday. Naturally, this idea comes with a standard 50th birthday theme — beachwear — but don’t be afraid to change it up.
45. Road Trip to a Weekend Getaway
Plan an entire weekend away for a fun 50th birthday party. You can road trip to a new destination or one of your old favorites. Grab your entourage, find a fun Airbnb to bunk at for the night, make a playlist full of classic road trip tunes, and hit the open road for a combination road trip and weekend getaway.
This is a great idea for a woman’s 50th birthday party, just ask your wife, mother or sister. If you’re ready to hit the open road in the most unforgettable way possible, the destinations that offer up the best road trips in the world will leave long-lasting memories.
46. Score Big With a Scavenger Hunt
Some things just get better with age: fine wine, cheese, a 401(k) and… scavenger hunts! A scavenger hunt is a great 50th birthday party idea that provides hours of unbridled fun and excitement, especially when there are prizes to be on the lookout for.
47. Go to the Horse Races or a Polo Match
Anywhere requiring big, froofy hats and a mint julep in hand is an ideal setting for a posh 50th birthday party. See what races are coming up at the local racing track or find a polo club near you for a birthday filled with plenty of horsing around.
Health and Wellness 50th Birthday Ideas
48. Head to a Yoga Retreat
For a simultaneously energizing and relaxing 50th birthday party idea, head to a yoga retreat with your ‘omies’ to participate in an array of self-care activities. Some friends may think yoga retreats might be a bit of a stretch, but whether you're looking for beaches or mountains, rustic or lux, the physical or the spiritual, these gatherings are the perfect way to celebrate while rejuvenating.
49. Register for a Fun Run
There’s The Color Run, Warrior Dash and tons of other mud runs and obstacle course races. Even underwear runs can easily be turned into the most fun 50th birthday party idea ever.
These wild and crazy events get the body, mind and spirit off to the races. Of course, there will be more celebrations taking place after you cross the finish line, which are even more fun if you and your friends go out together dressed in accordance with your 50th birthday theme.
50. Relax With a Spa Day
Book a day at the spa for one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating 50th birthday party ideas. Indulge in a mud bath, enjoy a hot stone massage, go all out with a spa smorgasbord or try out a trendy new spa treatment.
Forest bathing, anyone? Husbands and boyfriends, take note: No matter what treatments are scheduled for the day, this is the ideal birthday idea for a 50th birthday party for a woman, especially when paired with an item of jewelry.
Running out of suggestions for a 50th birthday party is now a thing of the past. As you get ready to usher in the big 5-0, remember: This is a season of life worth celebrating. Whether you like to rock out, party, relax or eat, there’s a memorable 50th birthday party idea waiting for you. Go on and plan your best birthday bash yet. You’ve earned it!
Celebrating other milestones? Check out our guides for 30th birthday party ideas, 40th birthday party ideas, and virtual birthday party ideas!
50th Birthday Party FAQs
How Do You Celebrate a 50th Birthday Without a Party?
Celebrating a birthday without a physical gathering may not be the norm, but it can still be fun and memorable. Even if you’re in different parts of the world, you and your loved ones can still dress and eat accordingly based on the 50th birthday party theme you’ve decided on.
You and your loved ones can learn to make your favorite food in an online cooking class, catch a movie together with the Watch2Gether browser extension, host a hilarious virtual game night with Jackbox.TV or just spend some quality face time over FaceTime. Technology offers more options than ever for long-distance hangouts — make the most of it!
What Should I Plan for a 50th Birthday Party?
Planning is key for any successful party. Give yourself plenty of time to think about your guest list, theme, food and drink options, and birthday activities, so that the only thing left to do on the big day is enjoy your time.
What Is the Color for a 50th Birthday?
Turning 50 is all about entering the "golden age," so go all-out in gold. Don't be afraid to add some sparkle to the occasion by throwing in some of your favorite colors, too.
How Do I Decorate My House for a 50th Birthday Party?
The answer to this question will depend on whether you’re considering unique 50th birthday party ideas or more regular ones. Kick your party prep off with a color palette or theme (think old Hollywood, 1950s, or the luau or all-gold ideas mentioned here), which will guide you in your décor decision-making.
Then, pick out some streamers, balloons and confetti, as well as plates and napkins that fit the bill. You could even top off the scene with some fun, on-theme party favors, such as paper leis for a luau or pig roast.
What Should You Wear to a 50th Birthday Party?
You're the star of the show, so feel free to set the "dress code" to whatever makes you feel your best. Whether you're dressing up for a specific 50th birthday party theme, donning gold from head to toe or simply keeping it comfortable and casual, you're sure to look great. Just be sure to provide your guests with some guidance on what they should wear.
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