Congratulations on reaching this landmark milestone! Turning 21 is an important transition that welcomes you into adulthood, independence, and self-discovery. Such a significant event deserves to be celebrated with nothing less than a grand party!
In this guide, we have gathered the most essential 21st birthday ideas in one place to make your day unforgettable for both you and your guests.
When planning a party, it’s important to start with a careful plan. Here are some tips:
- Determine your budget considering the number of guests, venue, food and drinks, music, and other factors. It’s up to you how much you want to spend, as you have tons of options for every budget;
- Create a guest list based on your available budget;
- Choose a unique theme to make the party unforgettable;
- Pick a venue that suits your theme or budget and is special to you;
- Provide food and drink. If your budget is tight, you can save some money by asking friends and family to help you prepare food. Hiring a caterer is a great idea to save time and worry in preparing the food. And don’t forget the birthday cake!
- Arrange for music, whether it’s hiring a singer or DJ or simply plugging in an AUX cord. No party is complete without music!
- Choose party supplies to make your space festive. You can find plenty of options at party shops online.
Now get ready to plan your perfect celebration with our top 21st birthday ideas.
Add Decoration to Enhance the Charm
For decorations, a wide range of impressive 21st birthday ideas are available. The possibilities are endless, from eye-catching balloon arrangements to customised banners and LED signs for space decoration, as well as unlimited options for cake decorating and other treats.
Here we have collected the best 21st birthday party decorations that you should not forget. More about party decorations you can also find in our latest blog The Best Birthday Decoration Ideas in One Place.
1. Balloons
Balloons are a symbol of fun celebration, so first decorate the room with them! You can make garlands with them using curling ribbon and a balloon pump. With a little creativity and patience, these decorations can contribute to a lively and attractive backdrop. You can also use foil letter balloons to spell out any message you want or use foil number balloons to create an unforgettable 21st birthday. Additionally, you can use them as a photo prop.
2. Birthday Sash & Tiara
You’re the star of the day, ensuring you stand out at your 21st birthday party. The birthday sash and tiara are perfect for this, and they also look great in photos.
3. Hanging Party Decorations
Enhance your party with hanging banners, pop-up decorations, buntings, and garlands to your party decorations. By incorporating special quotes or birthday messages in cute designs, you can give your space a charming touch. These party decorations not only brighten up the space but also create a magical atmosphere. Another great idea is to use fairy light backgrounds, hung on curtains or behind a photo booth for memorable photos. To add the perfect finishing touch to your party, you can suspend a disco ball in the centre of the space.
4. Make a Photo Booth
Can you imagine celebrating your 21st birthday without capturing memories and taking beautiful photos? Of course not! That’s why it’s always a good 21st-birthday idea to design a photo booth space with a beautiful backdrop. You can use balloons, banners, foil curtains, and backdrops to create a fun backdrop for your photos. Also, don’t forget to add some party accessories that are related to your party theme or your hobbies to make your celebration more personal and memorable.
5. Decorate the Party Table
Spice up your table with party supplies by colour. You can get colour or design-matching sets of cups, plates, napkins, table covers, and more! As a 21st birthday idea, we suggest you opt for glamorous table party supplies with glitter or in shades such as gold, silver, or champagne. These add a touch of elegance and can create a luxurious ambiance.
Have a Themed Party
The first 21st birthday idea is to go all out with a themed party, lift the mood and make the celebration unforgettable. Choose a theme that allows for creative costumes and give your guests a best-dressed award. This will motivate them to make an effort. To help you choose a theme, here are the best five ideas:
1. Black and White Theme
The black-and-white theme is a classic yet always elegant choice that exudes sophistication. To bring this theme to life, opt for black and white party decoration with gold or silver accessories to add some brightness. Balloon arches can be a beautiful touch, especially if you add some latex balloons. Consider hanging a backdrop in a suitable colour on one of the walls, and use it as your photo corner. Don’t forget to choose an elegant dress code in black or white. You can even talk to the bartender about creating some themed drinks for your event.
2. Tropical Theme
A tropical-themed party is a great 21st birthday idea. Just think vibrant party supplies colours, Hawaiian shirts, tiki torches, and fruity cocktails. Set up a photo booth with props like palm fronds and petal leis and have fun in the sun! Don’t forget to offer your guests some cool refreshments and snacks to keep them energised throughout the party.
3. Roaring 20s
Step into the 1920s and throw a Roaring 20s-themed party. Think flap dresses, fringes, feathered headbands, hats, and pearl necklaces. Men can opt for striped suits, fedoras, suspenders, and two-tone shoes. Serve some delicious cocktails, provide Charleston music and great champagne! Take pictures and make memories with this 21st birthday party idea in a vintage photo booth with party accessories and backdrop reminiscent of the 1920s.
4. Vintage Glamour
A timeless 21st birthday idea that never goes out of style. Maybe we can thank old Hollywood movie stars like Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart for that. Or just the elegant simplicity of vintage clothing and jewellery. Take a step back, into the past. It will certainly be an unforgettable party, as you and your guests will be able to transform into real Hollywood stars of that time.
5. Masked ball
A 21st birthday idea for a touch of mystery and elegance. With interesting masks, sophisticated clothes, party supplies, and party decorations, it will surely be an enchanting evening for everyone. Make sure to have plenty of champagne and serve canapés in suitable tableware and catering for a truly luxurious experience.
Provide food and drink
Whether you are hosting a small or big party, the food and drink menu is a very important part of it that you should consider.
Make sure you have both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for your guests. The most classic is the serving of characteristic cocktails, beers, and wines. You can do some research or ask your friends for cocktail suggestions if you’re unsure what to serve. Also, think about matching your cocktails to your party theme and serve them with catchy straws, stirrers, and picks for added variety.
As for food, finger foods and a barbecue are always hits at parties. Consider serving mini burgers, chicken wings, tacos, or even sushi rolls.
Here are some more 21st-birthday ideas that should not be missing from the party menu:
1. Birthday Cake
A birthday cake is a must-have for a 21st celebration, adding the perfect touch of sweetness. Whether you go for a classic cake decoration or something a little more unique, make sure you top it with cute cake toppers.
Oh, and don’t forget to make a wish when you blow out the birthday candles! This special moment will not only be great to look at but will also look amazing in your photos.
2. Cute Treats
Treats are a crucial element of any party, and grazing boxes are a great way to serve them.
Colourful cupcakes are very popular. You can make them by adding food colouring and topping them with various edible toppings that match your party theme. Let your imagination run wild!
3. Alcohol Cake
To make an alcoholic cake, use a multi-tiered cake stand and decorate it with streamers, feathers, or glitter paper.
Our favourite 21st birthday idea is to place a few bottles around the bottom layer, line the next layer with cans, the last with small bottles, and the top with a bottle of champagne!
This 21st birthday cake will be unforgettable, though you might regret it the next day!
4. Boozy Lollies
Another of the most fun 21st birthday ideas is to serve boozy jelly and gummy lollies! All you have to do is dip the lollies in vodka.
So, let the unforgettable party start!