Turning 30 is a milestone that some like to celebrate, and some would rather forget that they have already lived 30 years. Unlike 21, where you can drink legally, or even 25, 30 can be a hard year. That doesn’t mean that a party shouldn’t be had however. The hardest part of planning a party for someone turning 30 is getting a theme that isn’t too childish, nor too adult. For instance, over the hill gag gifts are really too early for 30, yet an amusement park trip might be too young.
My husband says that it’s easy: just have a party like for 21 – lots of alcohol. Except, now those who are 30 have more taste, so it should be expensive alcohol. You could have a mixed drink party, where the goal is to try as many different mixed drinks as the guests feel comfortable with. Go for ones with fun names, but that aren’t common. Pair with fruit, cheese, chocolate, and other munchies. Or, have a taste testing of micro-brews or a selection of foreign beers. If you have a liquor store nearby that sells beer by the bottle, this is easy. If not, see if the owner of the largest store near you can special order some beer for you.
Dinner at a nice restaurant. Always a good birthday party idea, but kick it up a notch for 30. Make the restaurant at a posh hotel and throw in a night there for the guest of honor and significant other. A hotel with a room over $100 per night or even $200 is going to be a great getaway and is sure to have a high class restaurant as well. If possible, make the hotel somewhere there is a bit of a drive and rent a limo to take the guest of honor to the party. For instance, if you live in the suburbs, going into the city would make for a great birthday night.
Night out at a local comedy club. This is great for the girls or the guys. Do keep in mind that the shows are usually late at night, so a dinner should be included prior to the show. This could be at a local restaurant, or at someone’s home. Then, off to the show. Usually, the comedian will ask if anyone is celebrating anything – birthday, anniversary – and will make a point to include them in the jokes. Prepare to laugh hard.
Hire a magician. Be sure you don’t get one who will do too kiddie of a show. A clown suit and balloon animals is great for kids, but adults want more illusion. Ask if the magician can do a special trick specifically for the guest of honor or one that involves them.
Hire a boat cruise. In areas where cruises are available, this can be a great gift. You can usually hire the entire boat with catering included for an evening. What a better way to relax that being waited on hand and foot, while enjoying an evening breeze off the water?
Have the party at an arcade. Kids love parties at Chucky Cheese’s, but the adult version is ESPN Zone, or Dave & Busters. They serve alcohol and usually have a room that can be reserved for parties. Start off the fun by giving each guest a few credits for games, if they aren’t included in the party package from the venue.
