5 Fabulous 50th Birthday Party Ideas

Is the big 5-0 coming up? There are few milestone birthdays bigger than the 50th, so you might want to mix things up a little bit. No boring old group dinners for this birthday — you’re celebrating a half-century of goals achieved and lessons learned, so you deserve a memorable and extraordinary 50th birthday party!

Ready to welcome your golden birthday in style? Here are 5 classy 50th birthday ideas that will make your celebration truly exceptional.

1. Throw a fancy cocktail party

A milestone birthday celebration doesn’t always have to involve five courses. Throwing a cocktail party is a great way to keep things sophisticated but fuss-free (and socially distanced). With its majestic cathedral ceiling, huge arched windows and spacious courtyards, the gorgeous Chapel Bar at the Greenwood Hotel is an ideal setting for a chic gathering.

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2. Go retro

Ines Wine Bar in Melbourne has that classic moody vibe perfect for a speakeasy soiree. So how about throwing it way back and setting a Roaring ‘20s dress code and serving plenty of bubbly? All the brass, Italian marble and wood panelling in this European-style wine bar exudes old-school luxury, making it ideal for retro 50th birthday party themes. Insider tip: the classic Italian dishes and signature cocktails here are some of the best in the city.

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3. Get competitive

You’re ushering in your golden decade, so why not go for that gold… trophy? Head to the golf course with your best mates or organise a mini-Olympics for some 50th birthday fun. The Putting Lounge at the Victoria Park Function Centre sits right on the venue’s driving range, so you can hit a few balls whilst hosting your birthday bash. This function space has its own private bar, outdoor terraces and some of the most beautiful views of Brisbane and the surrounding parklands. Whether your guests are getting into the competitive spirit or just enjoying the food and the scenery, this is one 50th birthday party they’ll be talking about for years to come.

Celebrating in Brisbane? See the top Brisbane birthday party venues

 

4. Throw a fundraiser

A black-tie birthday party is always a great idea. Why not make it even more special by making it a fundraiser? Ask your guests to donate to a charity that’s close to your heart instead of bringing a gift. Not only will you be making some special new memories with your friends and family; but you also get to do some good in this world. As for a venue? The elegant Calista Room at the Esplanade Hotel has the perfect vibe for a sophisticated black-tie affair.

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5. Enjoy a wine master class

Instead of hosting a dinner party, how about spending a leisurely afternoon treating your refined 50-year-old palate to some of the finer things in life? Visit the Wine Bar at the National Wine Centre, one of the most stunning venues in Adelaide. Gather your friends for a wine master class or simply indulge in the centre’s exquisite wines and charcuterie boards. How’s that for a relaxing 50th birthday? Tip: If you’re looking for surprise 50th birthday party ideas for a woman in your life, you can’t go wrong with this one!

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Need more ideas for your 50th birthday party?

Whether you're looking for fun party ideas or classic birthday plans, one of these party themes is sure to be a hit. Here are some creative party themes to choose from:

Murder Mystery Party

Put your detective skills to the test with a murder mystery party. Guests at your birthday party can dress up in their best detective attire, mingle and investigate the crime scene until the truth is revealed.

Spa Day

Treat your guests to a luxurious and relaxing spa party. Hire out a local spa or bring the spa to you with massage therapists, facialists and mani-pedi specialists. Not only will your guests appreciate the pampering, but they’ll also enjoy the chance to chat and catch up in this laid-back setting.

Karaoke Night

Turn up the music and get ready to belt out some tunes. A karaoke party is guaranteed to be fun for everyone, no matter their singing ability.

Fondue Party

Who doesn’t love a cheesy fondue? Invite your friends over for an evening of cheese, chocolate and all sorts of deliciousness. Set up tables with various dips and accompaniments, light some candles and get ready to share stories while dipping away. With this birthday party theme, you are sure to have a unique and memorable 50th birthday party.

Scavenger Hunt

Holding a scavenger hunt is the perfect way to add some excitement and adventure to your 50th birthday. Gather up clues that revolve around you or something special to your life, and send your guests on a fun journey that ends at the surprise party. To make it more exciting, hide party favors your guests can actually keep, which will heat up the competition and make it all the more satisfying for the winners.

Wine Tasting and Art Class

Pair two of the classiest activities – wine and art – for an unforgettable 50th birthday party. Grab some canvases, paintbrushes and all the supplies you need, along with a selection of your favourite wines. Guests will get to enjoy a glass while they paint their own masterpieces. When the night is over, everyone can take home a work of art as a memento. You may even be able to hang them up in the venue after your party!

Movie Marathon

Bring out the popcorn and settle in for a night of movies. Take this classic party theme up a notch by having guests come dressed as their favourite movie characters. Pop some extra-large pillows on the floor, hand out some comfy blankets and let the movie marathon begin!

Set up a Photo Booth

Step into the limelight and create some lasting memories with your friends. Set up a photo booth and encourage your guests to take silly, funny or classic photos together. Have props such as funny hats, glasses and signs available so they can get creative in front of the camera.

Kick the Bucket List

Celebrate your 50th birthday milestone in a big way with an adventurous party theme! Rent a hot air balloon, get temporary tattoos, or even rent a fast car to mark the occasion and kick off the next 50 years!

 

What should I keep in mind when planning my 50th birthday party?

Party planning may seem like a daunting task, but making the birthday boy or girl feel special is unlike any other. They're celebrating half a century, after all! Make sure to keep in mind some important points when planning your 50th birthday party.

-Be sure to plan the event well ahead of time, as it can take some time to source vendors and venues.

-Plan an interesting activity that fits the birthday theme you have chosen.

-Create a budget and stick to it.

-Send out invitations in advance and remind guests of the dress code.

-Organise any catering that may be necessary depending on the type of event you are hosting.

-Purchase party decorations, props and other supplies that will help create a memorable atmosphere and sticks to your party inspiration.

Need help?

Party planning can be a daunting task and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for help, or even hire a professional party planner if you need assistance bringing your dream party to life. With the right preparation and support, you’ll be sure to host an unforgettable 50th birthday!