50th birthday party ideas: 50 ways to celebrate half a century

Of all the milestone birthdays, turning 50 is one that demands a proper celebration. While we'll always encourage a birthday party regardless of age, making it to half a century feels like a momentous occasion that shouldn't pass you by without some recognition. Whether you’ve got a special birthday on the horizon, or are planning a surprise party for the 50-year-old in your life, our round-up of 50th birthday party ideas will ensure it’s one to remember.

Every 50th birthday party will be completely different - there’s no one-size-fits-all celebration that works for everyone. For some, a more casual affair is the perfect way to celebrate, surrounded by their nearest and dearest. For others, turning 50 means it's time to party, with a full blown bash that includes all your mates - and plenty of booze.

We know that when it comes to party planning, there’s lots to consider. What’s the budget? How many people are on the guest list? Are you planning an indoor celebration or an al fresco soiree? Luckily, we’ve grouped our ideas by category, so if you already have an idea in mind for a party, then you can simply skip to the best section for you. Or, feel free to browse through all 50 ideas, to see if inspiration strikes. Our collection of 50th birthday ideas has something for everyone, from budget-friendly inspiration to relaxing, affordable and luxury suggestions. 

In our opinion, these ideas truly are the best ways to celebrate the big 5-0, from a relaxing spa retreat at a luxury hotel, to a memorable dining experience at one of the country’s best restaurants. Have a scroll to find an occasion that feels right for you. 

Luxury 50th birthday party ideas

If there’s any birthday celebration that requires doing something a little out of the ordinary then it’s a 50th! These luxury birthday party ideas may cost a bit extra, but it’s your birthday - the perfect excuse to splurge on a truly unforgettable experience.

1. Book a multi-course tasting menu

Beast, London offers a number of group menus for a birthday dinner, with a six-course tasting menu that invites you to explore the very best of the land and the sea.

If you're looking to make your birthday meal out a tad more special than usual, then why not explore one of the UK's top tasting menus? Whether it’s 5-, 10- or even 15+ courses, there are endless tasting menu options across the country, with exceptional wine pairings for an extra touch of luxury.

The capital is known for its luxurious menus, so if you're heading to London for your celebration, then check out our roundup of the best tasting menus in London for a multi-course dinner that's worthy of a 50th birthday party.

2. Plan a luxury weekend getaway

Broome Park Hotel, Kent boasts an idyllic backdrop for your weekend getaway.

Escape to a five-star resort or a boutique hotel for a weekend of pampering, fine dining, and relaxation. In our opinion, it doesn’t get much better than a weekend away at one of the country's finest hotels. Have a look at these UK hotels that boast Michelin-starred restaurants, for the complete package.

3. Plan an extravagant gala reception

RHS Lindley Hall, London boasts a lavish space for your 50th birthday party. Plan a dinner for up to 480, or host a formal drinks and canape reception for 650 guests. 

Live entertainment, bottles of Champagne, and a beautifully decorated venue... what’s not to love about dressing up to the nines for a black-tie event? If you're in the capital, then be sure to browse some of our favourite venues for hosting a gala dinner in London.

4. Take a helicopter tour over the city

Take to the skies and enjoy breathtaking views of London with an exhilarating helicopter tour. This one is not for the faint hearted, but we’d argue there’s no better way to see the city, or spend your birthday for that matter.

5. Spend a day in a private box at the races

Newbury Racecourse, Berkshire brings five-star hospitality to your birthday celebrations, with a whole host of private spaces to choose from.

For an action-packed day of sun, booze, and hopefully a few wins, a day at the races seems like a pretty great way to spend your special day. For a really luxurious celebration, be sure to book yourself a private box for just you and a few guests, and make the most of some top-tier hospitality.

6. Hire a private chef to cook a gourmet dinner

If you don't fancy heading out to a restaurant for dinner, but still want to enjoy a gourmet experience, why not hire a private chef to cook you and your guests a special meal? Just sit back, relax, and leave it to the professionals, with a menu tailored to your tastes.

Relaxing 50th birthday party ideas

Still looking for a killer celebration, but one that’ll leave you feeling refreshed? These 50th birthday party ideas are of the relaxing kind, where you can gather a few of your closest friends and escape for an afternoon or weekend.

7. Book a spa retreat

Take your birthday celebrations to South Lodge, West Sussex, for the ultimate weekend of relaxation.

Unwind with massages, facials, and thermal baths at a nearby spa, with plenty of pampering, and perhaps a glass of fizz or two, for a truly relaxing celebration. Why not make a bit of a weekend of it, and try somewhere new, with our list of the best spas across the UK and London?

8. Hire a house in the countryside for a weekend getaway

Chaucer Barn, Norfolk offers a selection of cosy lodges for hire, perfect for a weekend getaway. 

Hire a charming country house for a peaceful weekend surrounded by nature, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pop open a good bottle of wine, huddle around the fire, and celebrate another wonderful year.

9. Go on a yoga or meditation retreat

Escape to the countryside, and take some time to recharge with a wellness retreat at Burningfold Manor, Surrey.

Start the next chapter of your life with mindfulness and relaxation at a yoga or meditation retreat. Whether it’s a long weekend somewhere in the UK, or a week-long stay somewhere a tad warmer, what better way to reflect on the last 50 years, and prepare for 50 more?

10. Book afternoon tea at a luxurious hotel

Head out for afternoon tea at The Academy Hotel, London. Or make it more of an occasion with a venue hire booking at The Academy Hotel.

You can't beat an afternoon spent scoffing bite-sized scones, sarnies, and plenty of fizz. Afternoon tea is always a winner in our books, and there are some really special ones both in London and across the UK. Looking for an afternoon tea near you? Browse our afternoon tea hub page to find the perfect spot for your birthday celebration.

11. Spend an evening at the ballet

The Royal Ballet put on countless spellbinding shows all year round. Be sure to keep an eye out for what’s coming up, and book yourself front row seats for your birthday. What could be more fabulous?

Outdoor 50th birthday party ideas

Lucky enough to have a summer birthday and want to spend the day outside? These outdoor 50th birthday party ideas allow you to take your celebrations al fresco, so you can make the most of the British summertime.

12. Host a back garden BBQ party

Get the grill smoking, and enjoy a laid-back gathering with delicious food, music, and great company. The best part about a garden party is that it can be as casual or lavish as you like. Keep it an intimate affair with just a few family members and a couple of beers, or go to town and dress your garden or venue with these stunning summer party decorations. Make up a few large jugs of Pimms or Sangria, and get the whole neighbourhood involved!

13. Head to a vineyard for a wine tasting

Head out to the countryside with a wine tasting at Denbies Wine Estate, Surrey.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, or just enjoy a glass or two when the weekend rolls around, a day out at a vineyard is a delightful way to spend your special day. Take a tour of the grounds, and then sample an exquisite selection of wines.

14. Book a coastal getaway at one of the country’s seaside towns

Escape the city and celebrate by the sea, with plenty of fresh seafood and some breathtaking ocean views. If you're looking for inspiration on where to visit, why not throw in a visit to one of the best coastal restaurants in the UK for a spot of seaside dining.

15. Go camping (or glamping!) with some friends

Get away for a spot of R+R at Gambledown Farm, Hampshire. 

Spend a few days out in nature, sleeping under the stars and cooking over hot coals (or a gas stove). Or, make the experience a tad more luxurious with a glamping experience, complete with lavish tents, cosy bedding, and a roaring wood-burner.

16. Hire a rooftop bar for celebratory drinks

Heading out with friends and family for a few drinks is a fun celebration in itself, but if you’re looking to take your birthday to the next level, then it doesn’t get much more showstopping than a rooftop bar. A couple of cocktails against the backdrop of the sprawling city? Sounds perfect.

For more inspiration on where to spend your special day, check out our guide to the best rooftops in London available for private hire.

17. Hire a marquee for an outdoor celebration

The grounds at Eastwell Manor, Kent boast plenty of space for you to set up a marquee for your celebration.

Whether you’re looking to gather some guests in the garden, or fancy making use of a venue's outdoor space, a marquee is a great way to enjoy an alfresco party in the summer without worrying about the weather! Host a lavish dinner, hire a local band, or turn the celebration into your own festival-style gathering - the possibilities are endless, and you’re guaranteed a bit of protection from the elements.

Unique 50th birthday party ideas

Fancy doing something a bit more special than dinner and drinks? Stand out from the crowd with one of these unique 50th birthday party ideas, and make sure your birthday is the talk of the town.

18. Take a tour of a brewery or distillery

Book yourself in for a hosted distillery experience, or cocktail making masterclass at Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Hampshire.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how your favourite drinks are made, with tours, exclusive access and plenty of tasters. Learn a bit about the brewing and distilling process, before enjoying a tipple or two at the end.

19. Get your groove on with a dance class

It’s never too late in life to try something new, and what better time to whip out your dancing shoes than for your birthday? Book a private dance lesson and learn the basics of salsa, ballroom, or even disco!

20. Book a chef’s table experience

Corrigan's, London offers a private chef's table for two. Perfect for an intimate, and romantic, birthday celebration.

If you’ve been waiting for that little push to book dinner at a chef’s table, then we reckon your 50th is the time to do it. Enjoy a front-row seat to the action, and watch as a gourmet meal is prepared right in front of your eyes - it doesn’t get much better than that. Check out our roundup of the best chef's tables in London, for exclusive celebrations across the capital.

21. Take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride

For a one-of-a-kind birthday celebration, why not take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride? Float high above the city and soak up some incredible views in an experience you won't forget any time soon.

22. Hire a party bus to drive around for the day

Private hire at Bustronome, London, allows you to indulge in a gourmet meal whilst driving around the capital.

Book a party bus for you and your friends to cruise around the city and soak up some sites. There are lots of party bus experiences that come with extra entertainment, like afternoon tea or a special meal onboard. Just make sure the tunes are blasting, and the drinks are flowing! 

23. Host a garden tea party

Grab your finest china, and host a vintage-inspired tea party with charming decor, fresh flowers, and delicious treats. Whip up everything from bite-sized sarnies, freshly-baked cakes and pastries, to charcuterie platters, with plenty of tea, and perhaps a glass of fizz or two.

You could go all out with decorations or simply lay out a couple of picnic blankets in your garden or local park - but if you’re looking for a unique celebration, we’d recommend the former. It’s not everyday you turn 50.

Fun 50th birthday party ideas

Sometimes you just wanna have FUN, and these birthday party ideas will have you feeling like a kid again. From escape rooms to comedy nights, let the good times roll with these action-packed ideas. 

24. Grab some friends and break out of an escape room

Put your problem-solving skills to the test with a birthday party at an escape room. Do you have what it takes to break out before the time runs out? Either way, you’re guaranteed buckets of fun, with this unique and action-packed celebration.

25. Test out your skills at a paint and sip evening

Discover the paint and sip parties at Rembrandt Van Wine, London.

Embrace your inner Picasso and enjoy a creative night out painting and sipping on your favourite tipple. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to finding the perfect evening for your paint and sip adventure, be sure to check out our guide to the best paint and sip evenings in London.

26. Book yourself a mystery destination getaway

If you’re on the hunt for your next weekend away, why not make it a surprise trip? Certain travel companies will do all the organising for you, so all you have to do is turn up to the airport and embrace the journey. Perfect for lovers of spontaneity!

27. Host a trivia night

Gather a group together for a fun night of quizzing. Print off a ready-made quiz online, or write up your own extravagant questionnaire about you and your life, and see how well your friends really know you. Why not amp up the competition and introduce prizes for the winner? If you don’t fancy coming up with the questions on your own, find out if your local pub hosts trivia nights instead. 

28. Hire a karaoke room and sing your heart out

Lucky Voice has sites across the country, from Waterloo and Liverpool Street in London, all the way to Brighton.

There are few things in life more fun than getting a group together and belting your heart out at a karaoke room, right? Hire a private booth, order a few rounds of drinks, and sing all your favourite tunes together. We've rounded up some of our favourite karaoke bars in London if you're looking for inspiration.

29. Head to a comedy evening

Got a comedian you’ve always wanted to see? Now’s the time. What better way to celebrate your special day than with an evening of live stand-up at your local theatre or comedy club. 

30. Sign up for a cocktail making masterclass

Learn to craft signature cocktails with a professional mixologist, and celebrate your birthday learning how to make all your favourite drinks. Or, for a more affordable 50th birthday party idea, why not DIY it? Grab some spirits and mixers, and make a selection of drinks at home.

Classic 50th birthday party ideas

If you’d prefer to keep things simple this year, then check out the ideas below. They might not break any boundaries, but they’re classics for a reason.

31. Hire out your local pub

If you've got a local down the road you love, why not see if it's available for private hire? What better place to celebrate than at your favourite boozer, surrounded by all your friends and family for a casual, but lively, celebration. London has a wealth of top pubs available for private hire.

32. Head to the theatre to see a show

Browse upcoming events at sohoplace, London, or look into their private hire options for a unique celebration.

Whether it's an evening at the West End or something a bit further afield, the UK's theatre scene puts on a vibrant array of shows year round, from toe-tapping musicals to intense Shakespeare productions. Why not double up and head out for a pre-theatre meal in London before the show?

33. Book a boozy or bottomless brunch

It's a classic for a reason. You're never too old for bottomless Mimosas or free-flowing fizz, right? For inspiration on where to spend your big day, be sure to check out our guides to the best bottomless brunches in Newcastle, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Brighton, London, and more!

34. Hire out a venue with a live band or DJ

HOF'S Bar and Dining, Oxfordshire, is a great venue for live music, with exciting events happening every week.

If there's one way to guarantee that your guests will be up and dancing at your birthday party, it's hiring a live band or DJ. Make sure to put in a few special requests beforehand. ABBA anyone?

35. Travel somewhere new with a city break abroad 

If you're a travel junkie, celebrate your 50th with a special trip abroad. Explore a new city and celebrate with great food and new experiences. 

36. Plan a private dining experience

Did you know that most of your favourite restaurants also have private dining rooms? Enjoy an exclusive dinner for just you and your guests, create custom menus and decorate the space to your heart's content. The capital has a whole host of private dining rooms that are perfect for birthday parties, with everything from Michelin-starred joints to sky-high restaurants for the ultimate celebration.

Want to know more about private group dining options near you? Check out private dining rooms in your local area.

37. Learn a new skill at a cooking class

School of Wok, London, has a whole host of group cooking classes and party options for your celebration.

Calling all keen chefs! Learn how to cook your favourite dish or cuisine with a cooking class. They're a great way to practice your skills (or learn something new) with a group. Plus, you'll have the chance to sit down at the end with a home cooked meal that you made yourself. 

Affordable 50th birthday party ideas

Looking to celebrate on a budget? These affordable 50th birthday party ideas include plenty of at-home activities, allowing you to have a proper celebration without breaking the bank.

38. Host a wine and cheese pairing evening

Gather a group together for an evening of vino and matching cheese pairings. Get everyone to bring a bottle, and prepare a selection of cheese boards, so your guests can see which combinations work best together.

39. Organise a birthday brunch at home

Brunch menus are available every weekend at Cut and Craft, Leeds.

Whilst heading out for a brunch is a great way to celebrate, sometimes you just want to keep things casual with a meal at home. Lay on an impressive spread with fresh fruit, pastries, or a make-your-own granola bowl station. We’d recommend a couple of Mimosas to help elevate the celebration.

If that all sounds like a bit too much work, then head to a brunch at your favourite restaurant. Check out some of our city brunch guides in Edinburgh, Birmingham, Bath, Liverpool, Sheffield, London, and more!

40. Host a games night with your favourite board games

Spark a bit of friendly competition for your birthday with a board games night. Ask everyone to bring their favourite board game to an event at home, or secure a spot at a board game cafe (yes, they're a thing). 

41. Invite friends over for a potluck dinner

If you’re looking to keep your celebration on the budget-friendly side, then why not opt for a potluck dinner? Get all your guests to each bring one dish, and enjoy a buffet-style evening full of fantastic home-cooked food. Leave your guests to their own devices, or provide a bit of guidance with a theme or dish suggestions. 

42. Create an at-home cinema experience

Did you know that Curzon, London, offers private screening rooms for exclusive events?

Set up a cosy movie night with popcorn, snacks, and your favourite films on the big screen. From rom coms to horror titles, sink into the couch and enjoy an affordable evening that still feels special. If you’re looking for something a tad more celebratory, why not look into hiring a private screen?

43. Host your own spa day at home

Instead of heading out for your big day, why not bring the spa to you? Light some scented candles and pamper yourself with homemade face masks and relaxation treatments from the comfort of your own home.

Themed 50th birthday party ideas

In our opinion, themed parties are always a great way to make your celebration stand out. What’s better than getting all dolled up, or putting on your finest fancy dress for a party? These themed party ideas are perfect for those looking to do something a tad more unusual.

44. Plan a murder mystery night

The Murder Express, London, is an immersive murder mystery production which offers exclusive hire options.

Embrace your inner Christie and Holmes and piece together the clues with a murder mystery night. Take your party to the next level and get your friends to dress up as their crime-solving personas.

45. Host a masquerade ball

Add an air of mystery to your 50th with a glamorous dress code and a series of striking disguises.

46. Go glam with a Hollywood red carpet party

Get dressed up to the nines with a 50th birthday party that’s sure to go down in history. For an extra lavish twist, hire a red carpet and have your guests walk down it in their finest attire.

47. Host a casino night

Decorate your venue to match your theme, like this casino-style event at Jeru, London.

Bring the thrill of Vegas to your party with a casino night. Think poker, blackjack, and plenty of cocktails (shaken, not stirred).

48. Take it back to the 70s with a disco celebration

Add a splash of disco fever to your birthday celebration by taking it back to the decade you were born. Flares are mandatory!

49. Throw a Gatsby-style roaring 20s soiree

The London Cabaret Club at The Bloomsbury Ballroom, London, is known for its 20s-style entertainment.

Step into the roaring twenties for the ultimate retro 50th birthday celebration. Get your guests to dress up in flapper dresses, hire a jazz band, and set up a Champagne tower for the full experience.

50. Throw a ‘through the decades’ party

Why just celebrate this year, when you can celebrate all the decades that you’ve walked the planet? Pick your favorite era and have everyone dress in themed attire, whether that’s 70s chic or 90s grunge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do people celebrate turning 50?

For most, turning 50 is a milestone that must be celebrated. Gathering friends and family for a party is a typical celebration, although 50th birthday parties can vary greatly from spending a quiet day at home with family, to going all out with a lavish celebration. All that matters is that you make the day feel personal to you, and celebrate with the ones you love.

What type of venue should I book for a 50th birthday celebration?

There are endless options when it comes to booking your 50th birthday party venue, with restaurants, private dining rooms and event spaces of all shapes and sizes. Keep it casual at your local pub, or go all out with a large or more unique venue. There are just a few things that you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing the right space, from size to budget and entertainment. To help you find the perfect venue, you can always use our free SquareMeal concierge. Or, check out our guide on how to pick the right venue for your event for lots of handy tips.

Looking for more birthday party venue inspiration? Browse our pick of venues in London with a view, or the best summer party venues across the UK, for a showstopping event.