20 fun ideas for an unforgettable 40th birthday party
The big 4-0 is a time to celebrate. So when it comes to planning the birthday party—whether it’s for you or a beloved friend or family member—make it the best by considering the four T’s: theme, tradition, time, and tone.
In other words, you’ll want to curate a birthday bash that’s complete with a memorable theme and thoughtful traditions, and set the tone with elegant invitations—all while paying attention to the time of year to make any adjustments based on weather or seasonality.
After that, it’s a piece of (birthday) cake.
Whether you’re excited or anxious to be turning 39 for the second time, you deserve to throw a party that’s all about you and your passions. That means you should pick a theme that you’ve always wanted to do—now’s the time to go all out. Perhaps you love camping, or you’re a budding oenophile, or you just want to put on an outfit that makes you feel fabulous as you hit up your favorite cocktail bar or sip something homemade. No matter which theme you choose (and trust us, we have ideas), your 40th birthday celebration deserves a little extra pizzazz. Looking for memorable 40th birthday party ideas? Read on for fun 40th birthday party ideas from Paperless Post.
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1. Make it a weekend getaway
Looking for a more relaxing 40th birthday celebration idea? What could be more relaxing than a weekend with your closest friends and family? Rent a cabin or pitch tents in a beautiful locale—a flower-filled meadow, a red-rock desert, or a lake nestled in the mountains.
Welcome guests with an under-the-stars reception, complete with delicious appetizers and perhaps even a signature cocktail. Then, end the night with a decadent dinner party and a night of dancing to your favorite songs from the past four decades.
When it comes to accommodations, each guest may have their own preferences. As such, provide your guests with a selection of sleeping options—on-site glamping tents for lovers of camping, and nearby hotels or holiday rentals for the less seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.
After a night of sleeping under the stars, say farewell to guests the next day with a village fête send-off—an elaborate festival complete with food, games, and entertainment. It’ll certainly be a weekend to reminisce on for milestone birthdays to come.
From sweet sixteen to newly ninety, ring in any major milestone with a festive invitation.
2. Join forces and plan a family get-together
Plan a traditional family weekend that all of your invitees can enjoy, no matter their age. Send our invitations and set out for the countryside with all the aunts, uncles, and cousins you can gather to celebrate the next decade of life. In the afternoon, set up activities suitable for cross-generational fun, whether it’s a badminton tournament or a treasure hunt that pits youngsters against their elders in a friendly competition for a prestigious prize—the winner gets to choose dessert.
Pick a meadow with plenty of space to picnic or pitch tents. Or, find a park pavilion with enough space to host family and friends. Once the youngsters are asleep, kick things up a notch for an evening of fun—drinks, games, and reminiscing about the last four decades.
3. Plan a surprise ʼ90s bash
Are you on party planning duty for a loved one turning the big 4-0? Call up all your best partiers and dancers for an epic surprise birthday bash that will transport your birthday girl or birthday guy back to the days of acid-wash denim, butterfly clips, and boy bands.
Remind your guests about any important party details before the big day by sending out a broadcast message, whether it’s a note about costumes, props to bring, or the ideal arrival time to avoid spoiling the surprise. Then, get the celebration started with a DJ playing all the top hits from the ʼ90s (a Spotify playlist will work just as well) for a peppy soundtrack to dance the night away.
Provide your guests with a selection of ʼ90s-era fruity cocktails like cosmopolitans, appletinis, and strawberry daiquiris. We also strongly suggest ordering pizza for a much-needed refuel session.
Make laughter, dancing, and the birthday star’s smile your top priority of the night. Throwing a ʼ90s theme party is the perfect gateway to a new feel-good decade. Plus, we have the perfect invite. You can also throw an ʼ80s bash or substitute it with ’70s party ideas, too!
4. Rent out a hotel
Go big with a hotel extravaganza! Many hotels allow guests to book a block of rooms (typically nine or more) at a discounted price for birthday celebrations. The hotel will most likely offer a slew of amenities and activities, from rounds of golf to spa days. Depending on the location, the hotel may even offer wine tasting events.
Before setting your guests loose, be sure to clarify which events are included in the hotel stay, and which aren’t. Non-hosted events, like the ones listed above, can usually be paid directly through the hotel during the event. Hosted events, such as poolside cabanas, casual dinners, and farewell brunches, are also a great way to bond with your guests and celebrate the new decade!
5. Host a big dinner in the big city
If you’re lucky enough to live a train ride away from the Big Apple, invite guests to a classy night on the town with a “New York Glam” themed birthday dinner. Ask guests to tune into their inner Carrie Bradshaw or Samantha Jones with a dress code that screams New York chic, then take to the streets for a night of decadent treats, a Broadway show, and a nightcap before bedtime.
Even those who are in the Midwest or on the West Coast can participate in the fun with a big-city-themed soirée, complete with Manhattan cocktails, a streaming of Broadway hit “Hamilton,” and an Italian dinner for the ages (and ageless).
6. Throw a chalet birthday
If you love skiing, head to the slopes for a weekend packed with powder, moguls, and more than a couple of cold ones at your après party.
There are plenty of activities on and off the mountain to celebrate in grand winter fashion—from mountaintop dining to spa treatments at the lodge. You can even hold a snowman-making competition to see which one of your guests can best portray the birthday boy or girl in a flurry.
Wondering how to beckon your closest family and friends to the slopes? We’ve got an invitation for that.
7. Hold a game night (or day)
Looking for 40th birthday party ideas on a budget? Celebrate with a fun but laid-back game night alongside a few of your closest friends and family.
Whether you’re figuring out whodunnit with Clue or partaking in fast-dealing property grabs with Monopoly, a game night is an amusing way to celebrate your big day intimately. If you’re looking for a more active celebration, consider competing in a laser tag competition, a paint gun war, or a bowling tournament. Or you can take to the sand for a fierce game of beach volleyball.
No matter your game of choice, make sure it’s one your entire guest list can get involved with and enjoy.
8. Recruit friends and family to help give back
Your 40th birthday can also be a way to give back and make a difference within your community. Bring along friends and family to your favorite neighborhood charity or nonprofit to offer a few dozen helping hands to those in need. Most likely, there will be a food bank, an animal shelter, or a homeless shelter nearby that needs extra assistance. If you’re not keen on participating in the day-to-day activities of the charity, consider donating food or clothes instead!
9. Belated birthday? Celebrate with a 40.5 birthday party
If your 40th birthday totally slipped your mind or fell during a busy time of year, consider throwing a 40.5 birthday party.
If you’re feeling whimsical, go with an “Alice in Wonderland” theme complete with a Mad Hatter’s tea party and a 40/5 Mad Hatter hat for the birthday boy or girl. You can also go with a more casual idea, such as a backyard get-together or a movie night with close friends.
10. Sip and swirl at a wine tasting
Calling all wine lovers: this is your chance to turn 40 with a glass of something bold, bubbly, or barrel-aged in hand. Host a tasting at a local vineyard, rent out a cozy wine bar, or transform your own backyard into a rustic tasting room. Print fun tasting cards so guests can jot down notes (“Pairs well with birthday cake” is always a valid opinion).
Planning to travel to wine country? Be sure to add Accommodations or Travel Blocks to your invitation to keep everyone informed about nearby hotels, airports, and activities. Guests will appreciate having everything in one place!
11. Black tie meets dive bar
Pair glam with grunge by inviting your friends to don their fanciest black-tie attire—then head straight to your favorite dive bar. It’s cheeky, unexpected, and makes for hilarious photo ops. Create a route for a bar crawl or post up at a single, beloved haunt with a jukebox and cheap beer.
This is the perfect vibe for a birthday that doesn’t take itself too seriously—but still provides an excuse to wear sequins. Cap off the night with a greasy slice of pizza and a toast to 40 unforgettable years.
12. Hit the water with a boat day
There’s something especially freeing about turning 40 on open water. Whether you book a sleek yacht, a spacious party barge, or a low-key pontoon, a day on the water is perfect for sun, music, and cocktails.
For any boat-based bash, accurate guest counts matter. With Paperless Post’s RSVP tracking, you can easily get a headcount (and even collect plus-ones) to help size the boat and prep accordingly. Bon voyage!
13. Host a garden tea party
Channel your inner royal and host a whimsical garden tea party for an afternoon of elegance. Set up vintage china, dainty finger foods, and floral décor—bonus points for fascinators or floral dresses.
If guests are wondering what to bring, include a Gifts Block in your invitation for thoughtful gift suggestions (or donation links). Whether you’re sipping Earl Grey or something a little stronger, this theme is perfect for unforgettable 40th birthday party ideas for her.
14. Go glam with a luxe picnic
Go beyond deli sandwiches on a blanket. A glamorous picnic—complete with styled low tables, oversized cushions, ambient lighting, and artisan snacks—is one of the trendiest 40th birthday party ideas out there.
Hire a local picnic service to handle setup and teardown, or DIY it with charcuterie boards, themed décor, and cozy throws. Set it up by the beach, in a scenic park, or even in your own backyard for a relaxed but photo-worthy celebration.
15. Get mysterious with a masquerade party
Ready to add a little drama to your birthday? Throw a masquerade bash where everyone arrives in their most glamorous mask and formalwear. Think candlelight, chandeliers, and a playlist full of intrigue.
Since masked events can involve a bit of mystery, keep your guests informed with Paperless Post’s broadcast messaging feature—ideal for sending updates, reminders, or a last-minute hint about the party’s secret location.
Whether you rent out a grand hall or decorate your home with velvet and gold, this is one of those unforgettable 40th birthday party ideas that feels straight out of a movie.
16. Score big with brunch and bowling
Perfect for a fun-loving crew, start with a bottomless brunch, then hit the lanes for a little competitive action. You can rent out a few lanes at a bowling alley and personalize the scoreboard with your birthday message (or childhood nickname—your call).
This is one of those 40th birthday party ideas for men or women that’s great for groups of all ages. Keep things casual, goofy, and just a little bit retro.
17. Sing the night away with karaoke
If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to belt out “Livin’ on a Prayer,” turning 40 is it. Book a private karaoke room for you and your crew, or go big and rent out an entire lounge.
Prep a list of greatest hits from the past four decades and let guests sign up for their favorite songs in advance. And don’t forget: you can add a Comment Wall to your Paperless Post invitation to let guests claim their favorite karaoke songs after they RSVP.
18. Throw an outdoor movie screening
There’s something magical about a movie under the stars. Rent an outdoor projector and screen, then set up a cozy viewing area with blankets, beanbags, and lawn chairs. Add tons of popcorn, a candy bar or pick-and-mix station, and soft drinks (or cocktails in cute outdoor-friendly cups).
If you’re inviting families, Paperless Post makes it easy to collect headcounts for adults and children—so you’ll know the exact amount of snacks and seating to provide. A family-friendly outdoor movie night is a laid-back and charming way to celebrate with loved ones of all ages.
19. Host dinner at home with a private chef
Want something more intimate but still incredibly special? Hire a private chef to create a customized tasting menu at home. Add in wine pairing, a few candles, and you’ve got a Michelin-worthy experience without leaving your dining room.
This kind of 40th birthday party idea is ideal for foodies who prefer meaningful moments over big crowds. Bonus: fewer guests means less stress—and less cleanup.
20. Relax with a spa day
Sometimes, the best celebration is no celebration at all—just peace, pampering, and plush robes. Book a full spa day for yourself and a few close friends with massages, facials, and maybe even a glass of bubbly post-treatment.
If you’re inviting out-of-town guests, share an Accommodations Block with spa hotel links and nearby travel info to make planning seamless. After 40 years of doing it all, you deserve a moment (or several) to relax and recharge.
Make it a birthday to remember with Paperless Post
Turning 40 is a huge milestone, and no matter how you plan to celebrate, it never hurts to get a head start on brainstorming 40th birthday themes and plans, especially when it comes to the invitations. Paperless Post has you covered there. We offer a selection of customizable invitations to match any theme, perfect for making your birthday extraordinary. Cheers to you and 40!
From sweet sixteen to newly ninety, ring in any major milestone with a festive invitation.
