30 Terrific 30th Birthday Ideas to Throw the Best Party Ever
Thirty, flirty, and thriving! 🥳
Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
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:
Throw a Fancy Dinner Party
If you’ve always wanted to attend an extravagant dinner party, now is your chance! Set up a long table, hang twinkling lights, put out place cards, and get it catered to really go above and beyond. You'll feel so fancy and fabulous on your big day!
See more at Simply Charming Socials.
Go with a Rock-and-Roll Theme
A 30th birthday party is the perfect opportunity to throw an event with a little bit of edge—and a rock-and-roll theme is a way to do just that. Display vintage records, serve themed food and drinks, play some feel-good tunes, and work that long hair and leopard-print ensemble!
See more at Easyy Livin.
Have a Backyard Movie Night
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.
Dance the Day (or Night) Away
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.
Birthday Wine Bottle Labels
A 30th birthday party definitely calls for some wine for toasting, and you can make the bottles stand out with these celebratory birthday labels. Everyone will cheers to that!
Have a Pool Party
Ready to dive into your thirties? Break out the pool floats, flash those shades, and whip up some tropical cocktails—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.
Visit a Brewery
A brewery tour can certainly double as a birthday bash, especially if you and your friends enjoy sipping craft brews. You can also host a beer tasting party at home with a variety of beer options as well as traditional pub foods like wings, pretzels, and popcorn.
See more at Mad In Crafts.
Enjoy a Picnic
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.
Set Up a Backyard Bar
Cocktail hour, but make it classy! Celebrate right with a cool backyard bar, including a framed bar menu with signature drinks and some fancy mix-ins. Don't forget to include candles and greenery for décor.
See more at Miranda Schroeder.
30th Birthday Party Straws
For your 30th birthday festivities, you can plaster the number “30” on everything, like these party straws, or you can take it to the paper plates, tablecloths, and balloons, too.
Have an Old-Fashioned Sleepover
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 Creative with a Painting Party
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.
Book a Spa Day (or Overnight)
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.
Go Gambling
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.
Play Favorite Board Games
Maybe the thing that would make you happiest for your b-day is reveling in some board games with friends. Make your gathering complete with plenty of tasty snacks and cozy decor.
Take a Cooking Class
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.
Go Full-On Glamping
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.
Create a Magical Photo Backdrop
Weaving together shades of pink and blush (or whichever hues you choose), craft a breathtaking photo backdrop made of birthday balloons. A cute phrase will make the pictures even better.
See more at Green Wedding Shoes.
Make It a Golden Soirée
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.
Have a Brunch Celebration
Perhaps brunching with friends is your very favorite pastime. It’ll be the perfect way to celebrate your birthday, whether you make brunch at home or go out to your fave brunch place.
Alex Shares How a Flight Delay Kept Her From Sofia
Alex Explains How She Started Dating Mauricio
See This Sweet Video of Sofia Trying to Crawl
Baby Sofia's 'Unimpressed' First Time on a Swing
