19 Epic Birthday Party Ideas for Adults Beyond a Dinner Party
When it comes to birthday party ideas for adults, I feel like there’s not nearly as much creativity as there is for kids or teens.
Kids get the cutest themed parties, like a “Winter Onederland” or a “Berry First Birthday” and honestly, it’s just so adorable! But adults deserve a little extra fun too, which is why I put this list together.
From hilarious dress up themes to more whimsical ideas; these birthday party ideas go way beyond the usual dinner party.
Birthday Party Ideas for Adults
1. All White Party
An all white party is such a classic monochromatic theme that I absolutely LOVE. You can dress it up or keep it super casual. The only real rule is to stick to an all white dress code.
You could host an all white dinner party, an all white backyard party, or really whatever vibe you’re going for. Just adjust the setting to fit!
Overall, this type of party makes for amazing photos and is such a cute way to come together and look like one big, coordinated group.
2. Tacky Tourist Party
If you’re looking for a creative party theme, especially a dress-up type of party, consider a tacky tourist theme. It works great all year round but especially if you have a summer birthday.
The idea is to encourage everyone to show up in their tackiest and wackiest tourist inspired outfits. Think Hawaiian shirts with socks and slippers, oversized sunglasses, and maybe even dragging along a suitcase.
Overall, this is one of my favorite party themes. It’s fun, silly, and super hilarious as everyone leans into the “tacky tourist” stereotypes.
3. She’s the Cherry on Top Party
Just like the name suggests, this party theme takes inspiration from cherries. You can decorate with a red color scheme and lots of cherry themed decor.
And most importantly, add some cherry inspired food and drink items to your party menu. Think shirley temples, cherry pie, or even a berry salad loaded with lots of cherries.
4. All Black Black Tie Party
Similar to the all white party theme, there’s just something so visually compelling about a monochromatic dress code.
If you’re looking for a formal and super elegant party theme, consider a black tie party. Although this theme is fantastic on its own, you can spice it up even more by setting an all black dress code.
5. Decades Party
Whether you’re obsessed with a particular decade or you just want to celebrate the decade you were born in; a decades themed party is such a fun idea.
From the 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s, or even 2010s; this theme is a great way to celebrate back in time. To really bring it to life, encourage everyone to dress up in outfits inspired by that decade. Decorate with iconic design elements from the era. And most importantly, serve food and snacks that fit the theme.
For example, if you’re throwing a 2000s themed party, you can have your guests dress up in low-rise jeans, layered tank tops, colorful sunglasses, velour tracksuits, and just all of the iconic fashion trends from the 2000s.
As for the party menu, you can take it in a few different directions. You could serve childhood favorites or classic 2000s snacks. If you’re going for nostalgic childhood vibes, you can add items to your menu like:
- Chicken nuggets
- Mac & cheese
- Candy bar
- Capri Suns
- Pizza bagels
- Charcuterie board (Adult lunchable)
6. Party Based on Your Favorite Movie
If you have a favorite movie that you love watching over and over again, your birthday is the perfect chance to create a party theme inspired by it.
Personally, I’m a diehard Shrek fan. And it’s amazing seeing so many people online throwing themed parties around the films. From blue fairy Godmother drinks to swamp inspired decorations, there are so many creative ideas that people have shared online.
So, for you have a favorite movie (or even a TV show), check out Pinterest, social media, and the internet to see if someone has already recreated a party theme around it. It’s a great way to spark your creativity and bring your own party vision to life.
Unique Birthday Party Ideas for Adults
7. Dress Up Like the Birthday Person Party Theme
This party idea is great if you’re throwing a surprise birthday party for someone.
If the birthday person has a signature look; like a specific hairstyle or a favorite way they like to dress, you can have all the guests dress up like them.
Another fun option, is having guests dress up as the birthday person during different seasons of their life. For example, someone could dress up as them at five years old, another at prom when they were 18, or even recreate funny, candid moments from old pictures.
Lastly, to make this theme even better, bring a printed picture(s) of the outfit or moment you’re recreating so everyone can compare their look to the original.
8. Oops, I’m at the Wrong Event Birthday Party
An “Oops, I’m at the Wrong Event” party theme is another hilarious birthday party idea!
Instead of dressing like they’re attending a birthday party, everyone comes dressed as if they’re going to a completely different event.
For example, someone could wear a cap and gown like they’re heading to a graduation ceremony. Another person might show up in gym shorts and a workout outfit like they’re going to the gym.
Someone else could wear a bathing suit and cover-up like they’re off to the beach. While another could rock an ugly Christmas sweater like they’re going to a Christmas party. There are so many creative ways for people to show up, so really encourage everyone to think outside the box with their outfits.
9. Pool Party
If you have a summer birthday, take advantage of the warmer season and throw a pool party. To make it even more fun, decorate with lots of decorations. Serve some delicious snacks and drinks. And most importantly, curate a fun pool party playlist.
10. Dinner Party
There’s something so classic about the simple act of gathering around a dinner table with loved ones. For a dinner party, you can either book a reservation at a restaurant or host it at home.
If you’re hosting at home, don’t think that you have to cook all the food yourself. You can go for a potluck style menu or cater food from your favorite restaurant.
11. Backyard Barbecue Party
If you’re looking for outdoor adult birthday party ideas, a backyard barbecue is definitely a top contender.
In addition to the food, you can easily amp up this party theme by incorporating lots of games and activities within the party itinerary.
12. Carnival Themed Party
Continuing with the outdoor party themes, a carnival party is a super playful theme. At first glance, you might think this theme is only for a kids party. But let me tell you… it’s PERFECT for all ages.
Bring this party to life by turning your backyard into a mini fairground with DIY carnival games. And most importantly, serve some tasty fair inspired foods. Such as:
- Corn dogs
- Lemonade
- Popcorn
- Fried Oreos
- Elote corn
Fun Birthday Party Ideas for Adults
13. Garden Party
For an outdoor party that’s all about nature and florals, consider a garden party theme.
It’s all about the whimsical side of nature and you can decorate with lots of flowers and pastel colors. Also, to really complete the theme; invite your friends to dress up in flowy dresses or pastel colored outfits for that light spring time aesthetic.
14. Tea Party
When you think of a tea party, you might picture classic teacups and scones, but there are so many ways you can put your own twist on it.
You can host the tea party outside. Or even adjust the theme for warmer weather, by serving iced tea and lemonade instead of hot tea.
15. It’s My BEE Day
If you’re looking for a fun play on words, consider throwing an “It’s My BEE Day” party.
Decorate with lots of yellow accents and honeycomb patterns to bring the theme to life. Serve honey themed snacks and desserts. And as a cute party favor, you can give your guests mini jars of honey.
16. Taco Bout a Birthday Party
Taco Bout a birthday party! If you love tacos, make it the star of your celebration by theming your party around it.
In addition to providing a variety of tacos, a great way to make this party interactive is by setting up a build your own taco bar. Also, extend the fiesta vibes into your space by decorating with colorful and vibrant decorations.
Lastly, for a playful twist, include a piñata at your party. So guests can take turns trying to break it. In addition to candy, you can fill the piñata with money and gift cards for a fun grown-up twist.
17. Glitz and Glam
A glitz and glam party theme is exactly what it sounds like. It’s all about sparkle, glitter, and everything glamorous. Think sparkly dresses, disco ball decorations, sequins, and anything and everything that shines.
18. Pajama Party
Whether it’s at home, a hotel, or an Airbnb, a pajama party is a classic theme that goes far beyond just a teen sleepover.
Plus, a great way to jazz it up is by adding a theme to your pajama party. Such as:
- Pajamas and Pasta
- Pajamas and Pancakes birthday brunch
- Pajamas and Prosecco
19. Picnic Party
Last on the list of birthday party ideas for adults, is a picnic party. You can host it in your backyard, at the beach, park, or lakeside.
I love this party idea because it’s just a chill and intimate way to celebrate, especially if you’re looking for a smaller get together.
You can keep it simple with just a blanket and snacks. Or you can go all out with a low profile picnic table, floor pillows, blankets, flowers, and birthday decorations.
