So, you're turning the big 4-0. This milestone birthday deserves an extra special celebration, whether you're looking to throw a big bash or planning a more intimate gathering with friends and family. To help inspire you, we rounded up 20 exciting 40th birthday party ideas that will ensure an unforgettable time for you and all your guests.
If hitting this milestone is making you feel nostalgic for your younger days, consider hosting an adult slumber party or a backyard carnival complete with games and classic treats like cotton candy. If you'd prefer a more sophisticated celebration, opt for a candlelit dinner party at home. Or, if you didn't get to take that big international trip that was on your 40th birthday bucket list, embrace a chic theme inspired by your dream destination. And of course, you can never go wrong with a pool party! On this list, you'll find plenty more fun party themes, decor ideas, and drinks and treats to set a celebratory tone for your special day. You can't go wrong with any of these ideas, so pick the one that speaks to you and prepare to start celebrating!
Adult Slumber Party
Celebrate your 40th with a nostalgia-filled sleepover party! Guests can indulge in childhood favorites like manicures, popcorn, and movie marathons all while feeling comfy and cozy in their pajamas.
See more at Studio DIY!.
Rainbow-Themed Pool Party
Make a splash for your 40th birthday with a fun pool party! A rainbow theme will inject vibrant colors and even more lively energy into the celebration. Guests can enjoy refreshing dips in the pool amid a kaleidoscope of decorations, colorful co*cktails, and maybe even a rainbow cake!
See more at Studio DIY!.
Picnic Party
If you have a spring, summer, or even fall birthday, make the most of the beautiful weather by setting up a festive picnic in your backyard or at a local park. Lay down an oversized blanket, decorate with colorful balloons, and bring all your favorite drinks and snacks!
See more at The House That Lars Built.
Decorate with Your Favorite Things
Do you love lemons? Donuts? Nautical adventures? Turn one of your favorite things into a fun party motif with on-theme decorations, drinks and snacks, and party favors.
See more at The House That Lars Built.
Birthday Cake Martinis
This drink looks like a birthday celebration in a glass! Your guests will love sipping on this creamy concoction of whipped vodka, amaretto, and white chocolate liqueur, finished with a playful rainbow sprinkle rim.
See more at Inspired by Charm.
Birthday Brunch with a Mimosa Bar
A brunch is such a fun and elegant way to ring in your milestone birthday. Make it feel extra special with festive decorations and a mimosa bar with all the trimmings.
See more at Inspired by Charm.
Amalfi Coast-Inspired Birthday Party
Is that big trip to Italy to celebrate your 40th just not in the cards? No worries, you can bring the vacation to you with decorations and a spread inspired by your dream destination.
See more at Posh Little Designs.
Parisian Birthday Party
On a similar note, if Paris is on your bucket list, opt for a Parisian patisserie theme, complete with a stunning croquembouche tower and a striped awning that doubles as a charming photo backdrop.
See more at Posh Little Designs.
Floral Birthday Party
It's your floral 40th! Bring a pretty, playful touch to your party with lots of floral-inspired décor and table settings. You can lean even further into the theme with floral-inspired activities like a flower arranging workshop or a botanical co*cktail bar.
See more at The House That Lars Built.
Birthday Gift Bags
Remember how fun it was to get goodie bags at birthday parties when you were a kid? Recreate that magic for your guests with to-go bags filled with little trinkets and treats. It's a great way to show your appreciation for everyone who came out to celebrate your 40th.
See more at Skip to My Lou.
Celebration Stadium Candle Holder
It may feel like a lot to put 40 candles on one cake, but we found the cutest alternative: a celebration "stadium." Deck it out with 40 colorful candles and fill in the rest of the holes with festive decorations or sparklers!
See more at Skip to My Lou.
Beer Tasting Birthday Party
This one is for all the beer connoisseurs out there! Gather up your favorite brews and maybe some new ones to treat yourself and your guests to a fun tasting. You can even ask guests to BYOB so you can try their faves, too!
See more at Average But Inspired.
Coffee Party
You've heard of a tea party, but how about a coffee party? This option is great for a casual get together with loved ones, complete with freshly roasted coffee, treats, and decor like these DIY coffee filter flowers!
See more at A Pumpkin & a Princess.
Floral Number Cake Topper
You're 40 and fabulous so display it loud and proud on your birthday cake! This cute floral cake topper is easy to make with wire and fringed crepe or tissue paper for the greenery and flowers.
See more at The House That Lars Built.
Summer Strawberry Party
Strawberries make such a cute summer party theme! You can serve your guests strawberry shortcake and other treats, and decorate with this adorable strawberry garland.
See more at The House That Lars Built.
Carnival-Themed Party with Spiked Cotton Candy
Bring a playful and nostalgic vibe to your 40th birthday celebration with a carnival theme. Invite guests to indulge in games and classic carnival snacks like cotton candy—with an adult twist!
See more at Sugar & Cloth.
Beach Ball Photo Backdrop
You don't have to go to the ocean to have a beach birthday party! Bring the summer fun to you with a vibrant beach ball backdrop and other playful touches.
See more at Sugar & Cloth.
Backyard Games Party
For a relaxed but fun way to celebrate your 40th, throw a backyard barbecue, complete with your favorite yard games. From classics like cornhole and lawn darts to more adventurous options like giant Jenga or obstacle courses, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
See more at Sugar & Cloth.
Elegant Dinner Party
Celebrate your 40th birthday party in sophisticated style with a dinner party at home. It's a great way to bring everyone together at one table and enjoy meaningful conversations and toasts.
See more at Oh So Beautiful Paper.
Backyard Garden Party
Or, take your dinner party outside for a candlelit meal under the stars. String lights will add a whimsical effect and provide the perfect amount of lighting for your guests.
See more at The Merrythought.
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