Party ideas

Birthday party ideas for turning 52

Eight ideas that suit your fifties, plus a four-step planning timeline you can count back from the big day.

Eight ways to celebrate

Backyard party with music

String lights, set out a buffet and hire a local musician or build a playlist.

Wine tasting day

Visit a vineyard or host a tasting at home with a few favorite bottles and snacks.

Photo slideshow dinner

Collect pictures from over the years and share them over a dinner with family and friends.

Spa weekend

Book a retreat with massages, long meals and nothing on the schedule.

Family cookout

Invite relatives from near and far for a long, relaxed afternoon and a big cake.

Concert or theater night

Treat the group to a favorite band, a musical or a comedy show.

Golf day with friends

Book a tee time for a foursome and finish with dinner at the clubhouse.

Cooking or tasting class

Learn something new together, from pasta making to cheese tasting.

6 weeks outPick a date and a plan, and book the venue, trip or tickets early, especially for a larger group.
3 weeks outSend invitations and check dietary needs and travel plans for out-of-town guests.
1 week outConfirm the headcount, order the cake and collect photos for a slideshow or memory table.
The day ofSet up early, plan a few toasts and leave time to enjoy the company.

Add the birthday to see the dates for each step.

A toast to borrow

Here's to the friends, the memories and the stories still being written. Happy birthday!

Card message

Happy birthday! This decade looks wonderful on you. Enjoy every minute.

Find gifts picked for the age and budget, or build the whole birthday in the planner.