40th birthday party ideas

40th Birthday Party Ideas

40th Birthday Party Ideas

Welcome to the 40th Birthday Party Ideas blog – where we pretend like turning 40 is no big deal (while drowning our sorrows in cake and champagne). Who needs youth and vitality when you have a whole new decade of wisdom and experience, right? Right?! Don’t worry, we won’t judge if you’re secretly panicking about the big 4-0. Instead, we’ll offer up some ridiculous and slightly inappropriate party ideas to distract you from the existential crisis that inevitably comes with ageing. So, let’s put on our party hats (and maybe some anti-ageing cream) and celebrate like it’s 1999 (when everything was so much easier).

Here is a list of cool ideas to consider:

40th birthday party ideas

The Room of Mystery

If you’re celebrating at home, The Room of Mystery is a clever concept that combines intrigue, close-up magic and lots of laughs.

We’ll set up in one of your spare rooms, and everyone gets a chance to witness the action – the best seat in the house! The show is full of audience participation, so be prepared to be amazed, baffled and amused in equal measure. This is an ideal entertainment option for a 40th birthday celebration. If you’re looking for something a little different, the Room of Mystery is guaranteed to leave your guests spellbound.

Sounds like your kind of fun? Get in touch to hire entertainers for parties.

party entertainment ideas for adults

Karaoke party

A Karaoke party is a perfect way to break the ice at a 40th birthday celebration. Not only will it get everyone out of their comfort zones, but it will also provide some entertainment value.

Furthermore, it will give guests the opportunity to interact with one another in a fun and relaxed setting. Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning a Karaoke party. First, make sure to have a good selection of songs to choose from. Second, consider hiring a professional Karaoke host to ensure that the party runs smoothly.

getting the party started with karaoke

Luxury 40th birthday celebration ideas

Spa Day

Turning 40 is a memorable milestone in anyone’s life. And what better way to celebrate than by indulging in a luxurious spa day? Whether you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, or just spend some quality time with friends and family, a spa day is a perfect way to mark this special occasion. From massages and facials to pedicures and manicures, there are plenty of services to choose from.

Plus, most spas offer packages that make it easy to find the perfect treatment for everyone. So go ahead and treat yourself to a memorable birthday celebration – you deserve it!

girls night at a spa

Casino Night

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to celebrate your 40th birthday, why not host a casino night? This is a great party idea for guests of all ages, and it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family.

You can rent casino-quality tables and roulette tables, or you can set up your own games using party supplies. Either way, you’ll need to provide some fun prizes for the winners. You can also use this party as an opportunity to raise money for a favourite charity. Just be sure to set some ground rules before the party starts so that everyone knows how to play fair. With a little planning, your casino night will be a roaring success!

big four oh ideas

Hire a barman

If you’re looking for an inventive way to add some extra pizazz to your next party, why not hire a professional barman?

They’ll be able to whip up any cocktail you can think of, allowing you to sit back and relax with your guests. No more worrying about getting the drinks perfect – leave it to the experts! So go ahead and add that touch of class to your next event – your guests will be sure to thank you for it.

happy 40th birthday with a cocktail

unusual birthday party ideas

The Close-Up Corner

If you’re looking for a party that will be the talk of the town, you need a Close-Up Corner. This is a focal point for your party where guests can get up-close and personal with some amazing close-up magic. Your talented magician will amaze and amuse your guests with tricks that are sure to leave them spellbound. Plus, our Close-up Corner is the perfect place for guests to take photos and share their experience on social media. So if you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable party experience, a close-up corner is the perfect addition to your 40th birthday celebration! Hire birthday party entertainment with a twist – your guests will love you for it.

What to do for my 40th

Hire a private chef

For a truly special 40th birthday celebration, hire a private chef. A private chef can provide an intimate dining experience for you and your guests, customized to your taste and budget.

Plus, with a private chef, you don’t have to worry about preparing or cleaning up after the meal. Just sit back and enjoy the company of your guests while someone else does all the work. When it comes to choosing a private chef, be sure to pick someone with experience in catering to large groups. You’ll also want to make sure that the chef is able to accommodate any dietary restrictions your guests may have. With a little planning and forethought, hiring a private chef for your 40th birthday celebration can be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

dinner party chef

Hire a home for the weekend

Are you looking for a grand venue to celebrate your 40th birthday? Why not hire a stately home or deluxe cottage for the occasion? You and your guests will enjoy plenty of space to relax and mingle, as well as luxurious amenities. And what could be more fun than celebrating your milestone birthday in style? Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large party, hiring a house for your 40th birthday birthday party is sure to make it a memorable celebration.

hire the entire venue

Wine tasting

Wine tasting is a great way to celebrate a special occasion like a 40th birthday. There are many different types of wine, and each has its own flavour and character. By tasting various wines, you can learn about the different styles and find one that suits your taste. A sommelier will provide expert insights into each wine, and will also be able to suggest food pairings.

Wine tasting can also be a great way to spend time with friends and family. You can chat and laugh while you sample different wines, and you may even discover a new favourite. Best of all, wine tastings make for an unforgettable experience that will be cherished for years to come.

If you want to make sure you’re getting the good stuff, download a fantastic wine app called Vivino. Thank me later.

So if you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate a milestone birthday, raise a glass to wine tasting. Cheers!

party guests enjoying wine

best 40th birthday ideas

Games night!

Board games are a classic way to celebrate a birthday, and they’re especially well-suited for a 40th birthday celebration. A cheaper option too if you’re looking to save money.

Games like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Cluedo can provide hours of entertainment, and they’re perfect for bringing together a group of friends or family members. Of course, there are also newer games that are worth considering for a 40th birthday party.

Games like Cards Against Humanity and One Night: Ultimate Werewolf are perfect for generating some laughs, and they can be played by people of all ages. Regardless of which games you ultimately choose, make sure to have plenty on hand so that everyone can find something to enjoy. With a little bit of planning, board games can be the perfect way to celebrate your 40th birthday. Let the games begin!

game night

Favourite Restaurant

If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate your 40th birthday, why not visit your favourite restaurant? This is an ideal option for those who want to avoid the pressures of planning an outrageous party. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a special meal with your closest friends and family. Of course, you’ll need to make sure that the restaurant is able to accommodate your group.

You may also like to investigate to see if they have a private room that can be reserved for your party. With a little bit of planning, dining at your favourite restaurant can be a truly special way to celebrate your 40th birthday.

favourite restaurant

A night on the town

The birthday girl may like a good old-fashioned night on the town. This is a great option for those who want to let their hair down and have some fun –  be it a ladies’ night or a men’s. Whether you hit the town with a group of close friends or go all out and hire a limo, a night on the town is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to plan ahead so that you can ensure there are no surprises on the big night. With a little bit of planning, a night on the town can be the perfect way to celebrate your 40th birthday with great company.

boy and girls night out

Las Vegas

Turning 40 is a milestone worth celebrating, and there’s no better place to do it than Las Vegas. The “Entertainment Capital of the World” offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for non-stop nightlife or a more low-key getaway. Whether you stay on the famous Las Vegas Strip or venture off the beaten path, you’re sure to have a birthday celebration that you’ll never forget. And what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, so you can let loose and truly enjoy your special day. So if you’re looking for a fun-filled birthday destination, pack your bags and head to Sin City. The perfect venue  – don’t forget to pack your lucky dice.

watch a magic show in Vegas

Afternoon Tea

For a truly sophisticated 40th celebration, afternoon tea is the perfect way to treat yourself and your guests. Whether you visit a local tea room or host your own tea party, afternoon tea is a great way to relax and enjoy some good company. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to sample some delicious food and drink. If you’re planning an afternoon tea party, be sure to have plenty of finger sandwiches, and scones. Traditionally, afternoon tea is served between 4 pm and 6 pm. However, for a birthday celebration, you may want to start earlier or extend into the evening. After all, it’s not every day that someone turns 40! When it comes to food, finger sandwiches are always a popular choice, along with scones and cakes. More tea Vicar?

afternoon tea for party celebration

A Party Theme

The sky’s the limit when it comes to choosing a party theme for a 40th birthday celebration. And why not infuse some humor into the mix with funny 40th-birthday themes? For those who want to go all out, there are plenty of over-the-top ideas to choose from. For example, a ‘roaring twenties’ theme can be tons of fun, complete with flapper dresses and feather boas. Or, for something a little more unique, how about an ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ themed party?

But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room – you’re turning 40 and it’s hilarious! So, consider a ‘Jurassic Birthday’ theme where guests can dress up as their favourite dinosaur because let’s face it, 40 is practically prehistoric. Or how about a ‘Back to the Future’ theme where everyone can reminisce about the good old days when they were not…well, 40.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, consider having a ‘decades’ party, where guests dress up in clothing from their favourite decade. Or better yet, throw a ‘Vintage Wine’ themed party, because just like wine, you’re getting better with age… or at least that’s what we’ll keep telling ourselves. There are endless possibilities when it comes to celebrating the big 4-0, so why not do it with a laugh?

party theme ideas

A Surprise Party?

Surprise parties can be a lot of fun but are certainly a whole lot of work to ensure that the birthday girl or boy doesn’t find out. If you’re planning on throwing a surprise party, be sure to involve close friends and family members in the planning process. This will help to ensure that everything goes off without a hitch.

surprising birthday boy

BBQ

A BBQ is the perfect way to celebrate a birthday party. What could be better than throwing some food on the grill, grabbing a cold drink, and spending time with friends and family outdoors? And since it’s summertime, you can take advantage of all the seasonal produce to create a delicious spread. Think about serving up grilled veggies, fresh salads, and, of course, burgers and hot dogs. Add in some homemade desserts and you’ve got yourself a party that everyone will enjoy. So fire up the grill and get ready to celebrate in style if your happy birthday is in the Summer months.

fresh air and bbq

Surprise Juggler

Who doesn’t love a good surprise? If you’re looking to add a little excitement to a birthday celebration, why not hire a waiter juggler? Waiter jugglers are trained professionals who can provide both entertainment and service. They’re experts at keeping guests entertained while they deliver food and drinks. And they’re sure to add an element of surprise to the festivities.

Ideal for a dinner party at your own home or at a hired venue.

So if you’re looking for a fun way to make a birthday celebration even more special, consider hiring a waiter juggler. You and your guests will be glad you did.

surprise juggler

Fancy Dress

Birthdays are a time to celebrate, and there’s no better way to break the ice and spark conversation than with a fancy dress party. Whether you’re turning 40 or 90, dressing up for your birthday party is a great way to add some fun and excitement to the festivities. And with so many different themes and costumes to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your personality and taste. From traditional ball gowns and tuxedos to more contemporary outfits, there’s plenty of scope for expressing your individuality on your big day. So whether you’re looking for something elegant or eccentric, make sure you don’t overlook the importance of a good birthday outfit!

guests in fancy dress

Hire a photographer!

Turning 40 is a milestone birthday that deserves to be celebrated in style. And what better way to commemorate the occasion than by hiring a professional photographer? A pro will be able to capture all the special moments, whether it’s the birthday honoree blowing out the candles or enjoying a dance with friends and family. And unlike a cellphone camera, a pro knows how to take flattering photos in low light conditions, ensuring that everyone looks their best. Plus, with digital files that can be easily shared online, guests will be able to relive the celebration long after it’s over. So if you’re looking for unforgettable 40th birthday ideas for her be sure to hire a professional photographer.

hire a photographer

Murder Mystery

It’s the perfect crime. You invite your closest friends and family to a party celebrating your 40th birthday, and in the midst of all the festivities, you commit murder. Of course, it’s all in good fun – your guests are playing along with a murder mystery game that you’ve carefully planned out. But as the body count starts to rise, everyone starts to wonder: who’s the murderer? Is it the birthday boy himself? Or is one of his guests to blame? With so many suspects and so much at stake, this is one party that’s sure to be remembered for years to come. Looking for fantastic 40th birthday party ideas? A murder mystery is sure to create a memorable night.

murder mystery

Professional decorator

No matter how old you are, birthdays are always a reason to celebrate. But when you’re turning the big 4-0, it’s time to go all out. After all, this is a milestone birthday that only comes around once. Now, you could spend hours scrolling through Pinterest boards like Melissa Gomez’s “40th birthday decorations,” or you could save yourself the existential crisis and hire a professional decorator to help you set the scene.

With attention to detail, they can transform your party space into something truly special. From balloons and streamers to personalised banners and centrepieces, they’ll make sure every element is perfect. They might even throw in some of those trendy Rose Gold Forty & Fabulous banners from Amazon, or perhaps some sparkling 40 hanging swirls if you’re feeling particularly youthful.

Party decorations are one of the most important elements of any birthday celebration. And when you’re turning 40, it’s time to make a statement. So, why not let the pros handle it? They’ve got access to all the best 40th birthday decoration ideas, from retro themes with live music to a formal dinner party setup, as suggested on Start at Home Decor.

And since no birthday party is complete without a cake, they can also take care of that for you. Not just any cake, mind you, but one topped with a Fabulous & 40 Cake Topper in Rose Gold Glitter. So sit back, relax, and let them handle everything. After all, you deserve it on your big day. And remember: 40 is just the new… well, let’s not go there.

For 40th birthday decorations uk, visit here.

party themes decorator

Videographer

A 40th birthday is a milestone worth celebrating, and what better way to capture the memories than with a professionally-produced video? A videographer can capture all the special moments of the day, from the birthday cake being cut to the speeches and toasts. In addition, a videographer can provide a unique perspective on the event, capturing shots that might be missed by those in attendance. And with today’s technology, it’s easy to share the video with friends and family who couldn’t be there in person. So if you’re looking for a way to make your 40th birthday truly memorable, consider hiring a professional videographer.

videographer for party

Dance-off!

What better way to celebrate a 40th birthday than with a dance-off? This fun party game is a great way to get everyone on the dance floor and moving. To start, clear an area for the dance floor and put on some upbeat music. Then, invite your best friends to come up one at a time and show off their best moves. The birthday person gets to be the judge, and they can award points for creativity, style, and technique. Whoever has the most points at the end of the dance-off wins! This fun party game is sure to get everyone laughing and dancing, making it a great way to celebrate a special milestone birthday. Sure, it’s not an original idea but it’s one to ensure a special birthday. Onwards to the next 40 bday ideas…

dance off at party

A Cooking Class

For many people, the kitchen is a sanctuary. It’s a place to relax, unwind, and let your creative juices flow. And what better way to celebrate a milestone birthday than by learning how to cook a delicious meal? A cooking class makes for a unique and memorable birthday celebration. Not only will the birthday girl or boy get to learn some new culinary skills, but the whole party will get to enjoy a delicious meal together. And who knows – maybe even pick up some tips on how to impress future dinner guests. So whether you’re looking for a fun and interactive birthday party idea or just want to learn how to make your favourite dish, a cooking class is one of the perfect 40th birthday experiences.

40th birthday party ideas

Go Bowling

Bowling is a great activity for a birthday celebration because it’s inclusive, low-pressure, and can be tailored to any age group. If you’re not a certified kingpin, don’t worry – you can simply use the ramps. And if you want to make things more competitive, you can always set up some bowling-themed games or prizes. Regardless of how you choose to bowl, it’s a great way to start the night off and get everyone in the party mood. So go ahead and strike up some fun at your next birthday bash.

40th birthday party ideas

Masquerade ball

A 40th birthday is a special milestone that deserves to be celebrated in style. If you’re looking for 40th birthday party ideas that will wow your guests, why not throw an elaborate masquerade ball? Invite your friends to don their finest gowns and masks and enjoy an evening of live music, dancing, and good cheer. To really make the night extra special, hire a professional photographer to capture all the glamorous details. Your guests are sure to have a night they’ll never forget – and you’ll have lasting memories of your own 40th birthday party to treasure for years to come.

40th birthday party ideas

Book a Penthouse

A swanky venue with incredible views will set the tone for an awesome night! Make sure to book a penthouse with enough space for a dance floor, an area for mingling, and a place to sit and chat. Once you have the venue booked, it’s time to start planning the guest list – a chance to invite all of the people who have made your life special. A penthouse will cost a fair chunk of cash but you’re only turning 40 once, so make it count! To enhance this special celebration be sure to book a funny close-up magician that will keep everyone entertained whilst you take a dip in your rooftop hot tub 🙂

next level pent house

Cocktail Making

Looking for something fun and different to do for your next big birthday bash? Why not try your hand at cocktail-making? It’s the perfect activity for city centre dwellers who want to add a touch of sophistication to their party. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests with your bartending skills. Just make sure you have a few mocktails on hand for the designated drivers.

put together a cocktail

Unforgettable 40th birthday ideas for her

  1. Virtual Cooking Class: For a food-loving birthday girl, arrange a virtual cooking class with a renowned chef.
  2. Aerial Yoga Party: If she’s into fitness and wellness, an aerial yoga party could be a unique way to celebrate.
  3. Private Movie Screening: Rent out a small local cinema for a private screening of her favourite films.
  4. Gourmet Food Tour: Arrange a tour of local gourmet restaurants, bakeries, or speciality food shops.
  5. Sustainable Living Workshop: If she’s eco-conscious, consider a DIY sustainable living workshop, where she and her guests can learn how to make eco-friendly household items.
  6. Fashion Photoshoot: Hire a professional photographer and stylist for a glamorous fashion photoshoot.
  7. Belly Dancing Class: Organise a fun-filled belly dancing class for her and her friends.
  8. DIY Wine and Paint Night: Set up a DIY wine and paint night at home. Provide all the supplies needed for guests to create their own artwork, paired with a selection of wines.

40th birthday ideas for women

A Birthday Roast

For those who appreciate a good laugh and are willing to be the butt of the joke, we bring you the ultimate birthday party agenda for adults. It’s a roast, but not the kind you eat with your Sunday dinner.

You’ve seen them on TV, those celebrity roasts where no topic is off-limits, and the cringe-worthy moments are as plentiful as the laughs. You’ve thought to yourself, “That looks like a riot,” all while hoping that your skin is thick enough (and yes, perhaps a touch wrinkly) to handle the heat.

Even Michael Scott, the world’s best boss (self-proclaimed, of course), thought his office roast was “hilarious.” And we all know how high his standards are when it comes to comedy (here’s looking at you, “That’s what she said” jokes).

So, why not adopt this comedic tradition for your own birthday bash? Not only will it provide endless entertainment, but it also offers a unique chance for your friends to share their most embarrassing stories about you. Think of it as a trip down memory lane but with a satirical twist.

But fear not, this roast won’t be an unplanned free-for-all. Oh no, have them set up a WhatsApp group, where your friends can brainstorm their best roasting material. It’s like having a team of comedy writers working behind the scenes to ensure your party is a confetti-throwing hit!

a birthday roast

40th birthday party ideas

Are you or a special someone hitting a new decade this year?

There’s no point resisting the inevitable. I appreciate it’s a big deal. Exiting your 30s is a significant milestone and as you look back, you can’t help but reflect on how fast time has flown.

Friends first aired over half your life ago.

And you vividly remember life before the internet, life before mobile phones, and life before social media.

You may even reminisce about the good-old-days.

You know, when you’d religiously tune into the Top 40 countdown on a Sunday evening, memorise lyrics from Smash Hits magazine so you could sing along, and record your favourite songs off the radio so you could listen to them on your Walkman.

[How those millennials are missing out.]

birthday decorations40 is the new 30

(lying b*st*rds!)

Let’s be honest, as a child of the 80s, you were definitely born in the right decade.

So why slip quietly into your 40s when you can enter with style and fanfare?

Remember, 40 is the new 30, which means there’s no need to feel nervous about notching up those extra years.

While your body has gotten older, you’ve gained a ton of knowledge and life experience because you’ve had 40 turns around the sun.

So if you were planning to bury your head in the sand and settle for a quiet night in, I say ‘sod that!’

Instead, get friends and family together for a big birthday bash with entertainment that makes it a date to remember.

Here’s how…

champagne on a girls night

Bring the house down!

Firstly, plan to turn up the tunes, dish up the canapés, and stock up the bar with all the favourites. These birthday party essentials ensure there’s something for everyone.

But don’t make the mistake of stopping the plans there.

Don’t settle for a party where the music goes on and conversations become more slurred as the evening progresses.

Instead, take charge of the entertainment too and leave nothing to chance. If you’re going to all that effort [and expense], you want guarantees of a truckload of incredible moments. That way you can talk to your future grandkids about the day you turned 40. They won’t believe how cool you were and you’ll have all the photographic evidence to prove it too.

superman iconEntertainment is key

Plan your party around kick-ass entertainment and there’s not a chance anyone will be bored. [Even those seriously hard-to-please people you’d love to impress.]

Instead, you’ll plan a party with an incredible buzz that grows into a climax, ensuring all your friends talk about your bash for years to come (and secretly wishing they’d turned 40 first so they could have hosted ‘that’ party themselves.)

40th party ideas Conclusion

Birthday parties are best enjoyed with great company, delicious food and some fun activities thrown in to make it a celebration to remember. No matter your budget, there are plenty of ways to make your 40th birthday party special. From fine dining in the Ritz to finger foods enjoyed on lawn chairs at a rooftop bar, invite friends who will help create long-lasting memories of your big day. And don’t forget the cake – it’s not a birthday party without one! If you’d like to hire entertainment for your birthday party, get in touch for a quote.

40th birthday party entertainment ideas