1st birthday ideas
A first trip around the sun, and a whole year of firsts. Traditions, party ideas, gifts, toasts and card messages for turning 1.
What turning 1 means
A first birthday is mostly a party for the grown-ups. Your baby won't remember it, but you will. It marks the end of a year full of sleepless nights, first smiles, first foods and maybe first steps. Many families invite grandparents, aunts, uncles and close friends to celebrate how far everyone has come. The best first birthday parties are short, simple and planned around nap time, with plenty of photos to look back on later.
Traditions and customs
Party ideas
Color ideas
A suggestion, not a rule. Their favorite colors always win.
Cake ideas
- Mini smash cake. A small, simple cake made just for the baby to dig into with both hands.
- Number one cake. A sheet or layer cake shaped like a big number 1 for the guests to share.
- Banana smash cake. A soft banana cake with light frosting, an easy first taste of birthday cake.
Planning timeline
- 6 weeks outPick a date and a time that fits around naps, and send save the dates to family who need to travel.
- 3 weeks outPlan the smash cake and a bigger cake for guests, and gather a photo from each month of the year.
- 1 week outBuy decorations, baby safe snacks and a splat mat for under the high chair, and charge the camera.
- The day ofKeep the party to about two hours, bring out the smash cake near the end, and enjoy the mess.
Gift ideas for a 1st
Under $25
BooksBoard book setFind one →ToysStacking cupsFind one →ToysBath toy setFind one →KeepsakeFirst birthday bibFind one →Nothing in this budget for this pick.
$25 to $100
ToysPush walker toyFind one →KeepsakeHandprint keepsake kitFind one →ToysActivity cubeFind one →BooksPersonalized storybookFind one →Nothing in this budget for this pick.
Splurge
ToysRide-on toy carFind one →ToysWooden play kitchenFind one →ToysIndoor climbing playsetFind one →ExperienceFamily photo session voucherFind one →Nothing in this budget for this pick.
Toasts for a 1st
A year ago we held you for the first time. Today we raise a glass to the little person who changed everything for us. Happy first birthday, sweet baby.
Thank you all for being here. This year was full of messy, sleepy, wonderful days, and you helped us through every one. Here's to our one-year-old!
To our baby: you taught us patience, laughter and how to get by on very little sleep. We can't wait to see what year two brings.
Card messages
Happy first birthday, little one. You've brought so much joy into this world in just one year.
One year down, and you already have everyone wrapped around your tiny finger. Happy birthday!
Wishing you a messy cake, a pile of wrapping paper and a long, happy nap afterward.
Happy 1st birthday! Here's to more giggles, first steps and big adventures ahead.
To the parents: you made it through year one. To the baby: happy birthday, you're the star of the show.
Welcome to the one club, sweet pea. We love you more than cake.
More birthday wishes →1st birthday questions
What do you do for a 1st birthday?
Most families host a short party with close family, a smash cake for the baby and plenty of photos. Planning it around nap time helps keep the baby happy.
What is a smash cake?
A smash cake is a small cake made just for the baby, who is allowed to dig in with their hands. It's a popular US custom for first birthdays.
What is doljabi?
Doljabi is part of doljanchi, the Korean first birthday party. The baby picks from objects like thread, money or a pencil, and the choice playfully "predicts" the future.
What color is for a 1st birthday?
There's no official color for a first birthday. Soft pastels are a popular choice, but any colors you love will work.
How long should a 1st birthday party be?
There's no rule, but many parents keep it to about two hours so the baby doesn't get overtired.
Planning a 1st?
Add their birthday and get a plan: what to do, trips nearby, a party kit and a countdown.