When someone you love celebrates another year on this earth, you can’t help but want to make it a memorable occasion. You can go big with a huge party or keep it simple and just enjoy the day with your loved ones. There’s so much to do in NYC to create an unforgettable birthday experience, from theme park hopping to botanical gardens and everything in between.
Whether you’re a parent or not, birthday is a special time to take stock of all the wonderful things in your life and appreciate the people around you. You can also use this day to give back to others who may not be as fortunate as you are. Whether you’re hosting a fundraiser or just making a small donation on your birthday, it feels good to help those who need it most.
As the concept of birthdays traversed cultures and centuries, a mosaic of traditions began to form. Many of these elements eventually coalesced into the birthday celebrations we know and love today. The lighting of candles, for example, is an echo of ancient Greek rituals that ward off evil spirits with the glow of light and good cheer. The singing and clatter of noisemakers also served to scare away unwanted entities.
Throughout the years, birthdays have become a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. They’re also a chance to let friends and family know you love them and that they are cherished. You can’t go wrong with a thoughtful card or an uplifting phone call.
You can also use your birthday to celebrate a hobby or passion you’re passionate about. For example, you can host a workshop or book a private dining room to experience something new with the people who matter most. You can even host a scavenger hunt that takes you down memory lane, taking you to the places they love — like their favorite playground or restaurant.
If you’re trying to avoid being too sappy, it’s still a good idea to wish them happy birthday in person. If you’re too busy to get together in person, you can always send a text message or write a heartfelt Facebook post that shows the recipient that you’re thinking about them on their special day.
If you really want to surprise them, you could rent out a movie theatre and show up with popcorn and other classic cinema snacks for a screening of their favourite film. You could even choose a movie that you know they have been wanting to see and personalise the experience by decorating the venue based on the film.