On the timeline of celebrating birthdays, festivities go from pin the tail on the donkey, often moving to brazen and boozy, and then... what? Look, we know calling more attention to the fact that we’re getting older isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but we also think surviving another trip around the sun is worth celebrating in a big way, even as an adult.
So whether you’re planning a birthday bash for yourself or a loved one, here are some ideas to make the party pop.
Rent a movie theater
Since you’re the main character on your special day, why not create a cinematic experience to match? Various theaters around town — think 5th Avenue Cinema or Clinton Street Theater — are available to host private events.
Throw a goat party
Yes. We mean it. Portland Goat Parties allows you book four adorable baby goats to make a guest appearance at your party for everyone to snuggle and love on. You can also plan a visit to the farm, or rent it out for a private party, if you’d rather hang out with the whole herd.
Design your next masterpiece
Doing something creative with your hands is a great way to commemorate life’s milestones. DIY Bar provides materials for a range of crafts and Bottle & Bottega unlocks your inner Picasso with the beverage of your choice.
Hop on a boat
Bring your friends for a river cruise complete with a charcuterie board and wine with Electric Boat Company. The boats are heated for when it’s cold or you’ll have water access for when it’s warm. Or go all out with a Yacht Tub’s hot tub boats. Just pack some drinks and get ready to float along in a tub filled with whatever temperature of water feels best for you.
Go mini golfing
Just tap, tap, tap it in — and hilarity usually follows. Glowing Greens is a 13-hole, blacklit adventure, and Birdie Time Pub has courses where golfers spin a wheel for a special rule — like standing on one foot or using your off-hand — on the way to sinking the putt.
Lace up the skates
Go all out with bell bottoms, glitter, and your grooviest vibes — adult birthday packages at Oaks Park Roller Rink include beer/wine tickets, cotton candy, arcade game money, two large pizzas, themed tableware and more.
Dinner for you and yours
Gather around a table with friends and family for a memorable meal at one of your favorite restaurants. Enoteca Nostrana and Dame offer particularly intimate settings, while Bethany’s Table can accommodate up to 32 guests.
It’s on the house
Fun doesn’t have to cost a thing with our list of birthday freebies, ranging from sweet treats to spa treatments.
