Celebrate a New Milestone With One of These 30th Birthday Ideas (2024)

Every birthday deserves to be marked by something special—whether it’s with a birthday gift or a gathering surrounded by close family and friends. But when it comes to milestone birthdays, that specialness goes way up. For instance, when you turn 30, you’re officially exiting your 20s and moving onto a whole new (and exciting) decade. Gone are the days of college and wondering what you’re going to do with your life—in this next era, you’ll be in a more grounded place, and that’s something that needs to be celebrated.

Whether you’re the one turning 30 or you’re planning the party for a friend or family member, this list has tons of great 30th birthday ideas that anyone would love. You can throw the celebration of the year with a fun party theme, gourmet party foods, spectacular decorations, and dozens of guests. Or, you can opt to dial it down with just a few pals doing something extra-fun, like having a spa day, hosting an old-school slumber party, or playing some nostalgic board games. You may also choose to shake up the status quo by learning something new through a class or booking a weekend away (a trip to Pawhuska, OK perhaps?!).

In any case, you’re sure to find an idea in our list of the best ways to celebrate a 30th birthday. And if you're in need of 40th birthday party ideas or 5oth birthday party ideas, we have those, too!

You can't throw a party without these ideas:

• Fun Party Games for Any Celebration
• Best Cake Recipes Made from Scratch
• Big Batch co*cktails to Get the Party Started

If you believe a birthday party isn’t complete without your favorite films, then you should make this shindig all about movies. Pop some popcorn, play a movie trivia game, and get out the portable screen for movie night in the backyard.

It’s time to bring out your best dance moves! Set up some speakers and have a dance party with your BFFs. You can also choose a theme with music and décor to match! Disco, Roaring Twenties, or even Barbie will be a hit with everyone.

Ready to dive into your thirties? Break out the pool floats, flash those shades, and whip up some tropical co*cktails—whether you celebrate at your pool, a friend’s pool, or a rented hotel pool, you're sure to make a splash as you start this next chapter of life.

There's no need to go all out if you don't want to! Keep things low-key for your 30th with an idyllic outdoor picnic. Set the scene with a pretty spot in a park, pack up a basket with upscale eats, and watch the sun go down with your closest companions.

You’re never too old for a slumber party! Invite your girlfriends over for a fun night of hair-braiding, nail-painting, and talking-into-the-wee-hours.

Get out the paint for a unique 30th birthday fête! Classes that pair painting and wine are popular these days, and many artists will even come to your house to teach you how to create your own masterpieces.

Is there anything more relaxing than a spa getaway? Treat yourself for your birthday and go for an afternoon, a whole day, or even the weekend, and indulge in some much-needed pampering.

You’ll hit the jackpot with this 30th birthday bash. Head to the casino for an evening of slots and table games. You can bet on yourself having tons of fun.

Ask your best buds to go to a cooking class for your 30th birthday. Whether you’re all novices or regular gourmets, you’re sure to have a blast and learn how to cook something new.

Glamping is for those who love the outdoors but want to do it with some panache—if this sounds like you to a T, go all out with luxurious tents, a beautifully-decorated table for meals, and flowers galore.

If you’re hunting for a color theme for a 30th birthday party, seriously consider gold. It’ll add an undoubtedly luxe vibe to the party, particularly if you include gold everything, from the balloons to the decorations. Guests can wear gold as a finishing touch.