Turning 40 may not be everyone’s idea of a good time but it still deserves a big celebration. For those who just want to enjoy their birthday then a party is a must, and for those who aren’t so happy about hitting the big four zero then it’s the perfect time to let loose and have fun.
So if you’re throwing a 40th birthday party for a man you’ll want to make it special. Which means an awesome theme or idea for the party.
These unique and different party ideas will help you throw something that’s both fun but memorable. A party that reflects his journey, interests and the joy he brings into the lives of those around him.
Vintage Arcade Night
Remember those quarters burning a hole in your pocket at the arcade? Transform your party space into a retro gaming paradise that’ll transport everyone back to their button-mashing glory days. I’ll walk you through how to set this up without a hitch!
Choose Your Games Wisely
The heart of your arcade night lives in the games themselves. Track down local arcade machine rentals – you’d be amazed how many collectors rent out their Pac-Man and Street Fighter cabinets these days. Can’t find rentals? Modern arcade bars often let you reserve their space for private events, complete with all the classics already lined up.
Want to kick things up a notch? Set up an old-school tournament bracket. Nothing gets competitive juices flowing like battling for high scores on Galaga. The winner deserves something special – maybe a vintage gaming poster or that hard-to-find action figure they coveted back in ’85.
Decor and Atmosphere
The atmosphere makes all the difference. String up some neon, place ’80s and ’90s movie posters around, blast those synthwave beats and don’t forget the snacks.
Snacks and Drinks
Skip the fancy catering and embrace the classics – pizza by the slice, Pop Rocks that’ll make everyone laugh, and maybe even some Surge soda for the authentic sugar rush. For drinks work with your venue to create game-themed cocktails that’ll have everyone grinning.
Capture the Moments
Don’t forget to capture the magic. Set up a corner with props – think light guns, power gloves, and maybe even some vintage gaming magazines. A few Polaroid cameras scattered around let guests snap instant memories of their victory poses.
Backyard Drive-In Movie Experience
There’s something magical about watching movies outside. Maybe it’s the way the stars peek through during quiet scenes or how blankets and lawn chairs create natural conversation pockets between friends. For a 40th celebration transform your backyard into a personal cinema that beats any traditional theater experience.
Choose the Right Tech Gear
Getting the tech right matters, but don’t let it overwhelm you. A decent projector (borrow one if you can – everyone seems to have one these days) and a smooth white surface are your basic needs. That surface could be anything from a proper screen to a well-stretched white sheet between trees. Some of the best backyard theaters I’ve seen used the side of a garage or garden wall.
Sound System
Great sound is crucial for that immersive movie experience. If you can then go for a powerful outdoor sound system that can easily fill your backyard with crisp, cinematic audio. Remember – you don’t want to disturb the neighbors so keep it enjoyable but considerate.
Select the Perfect Flicks
The real fun comes in creating your movie lineup. Mix in some films from his birth year with current favorites. Watching “Back to the Future” or “The Breakfast Club” hits differently when you’re celebrating 40 trips around the sun. Keep a backup film ready too – sometimes the crowd’s mood calls for a switch from action to comedy.
Set Up Comfy Seating
Encourage guests to bring their lawn chairs or set out a variety all around the yard. For an extra comfy setup scatter several blankets, garden lounges and throw pillows. Make sure everyone has a good view and can snuggle up as they watch.
Snack on Cinema Classics
Skip the traditional movie theater snacks and make it special. Set up different food stations that people can visit without blocking anyone’s view. Think walking tacos, slider stations and yes – you still need that popcorn machine. The smell alone sets the perfect mood. For drinks, consider creating movie-themed cocktails served in light-up glasses that won’t get lost in the dark.
Popcorn Machine
No movie night is complete without fresh, buttery popcorn. Rent a popcorn machine to give your backyard that authentic movie theatre aroma and taste.
Movie Snacks
Along with popcorn, offer a variety of snacks such as nachos, hot dogs, and candy bars. Set up a snack bar where guests can grab bites without missing important scenes.
Add Thematic Decorations
Light up the space with string lights for a magical glow and consider theme-related decorations to enhance the cinematic vibe. Maybe add life-sized cutouts of famous movie characters or posters of iconic films featured during the screening.
Keep the Setting Cozy
With outdoors settings it’s smart to have contingency plans. Have blankets ready for a chilly night and perhaps a few citronella candles or bug repellents to keep unwelcome guests away.
Tip: String lights aren’t just for decoration. They create perfect pathways to snacks and bathrooms without ruining the movie ambiance. And I’m going to reiterate it – always, always have more blankets than you think you need. Someone always forgets theirs and there’s nothing worse than a chilly guest trying to enjoy “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”
“Around the World” Tasting Party
Forget the ordinary birthday dinner. A 40th deserves a journey around the world, right in your own space. A global tasting party turns every guest into an adventurous foodie, creating conversations and memories that last far longer than traditional party small talk.
Step Up Your Planning Game
- Choose Your Destinations: Instead of trying to cover every country pick three or four that really matter to the birthday celebrant. Maybe it’s places he’s traveled, dreams of visiting or simply cuisines that make his eyes light up. Each station becomes its own little world, with food, drinks and atmosphere working together. The Italian corner might feature a hand-cranked pasta station where guests can try making their own noodles, alongside a selection of aged cheeses and regional wines. Your Japanese area could showcase a local sushi chef doing demonstrations, teaching guests how to roll their own rolls. The Mexican station? Think fresh tortillas being made to order, with an array of fillings and a tequila expert sharing sipping techniques.
- Send Themed Invites: Build excitement with invites that resemble boarding passes or passports. This small detail sets the tone and gives guests a sneak peek of the global journey they’re about to embark on.
- Decor and Atmosphere: Each station should really demonstrate the essence of its respective country. Think of hanging Japanese lanterns for the sushi bar or using checkered tablecloths for an Italian wine corner. It’s all in the details!
- Prepare Your Passport Cards: These cards will serve as a fun collectible for your guests. Each station will have a stamp representing the country, mimicking a real passport.
- Italy Station: Offer a spread of cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan, alongside a variety of bread and a selection of Italian wines.
- Mexican Corner: Create a taco bar with different fillings like carne asada and al pastor. Don’t forget the margaritas!
- Japanese Booth: Set up a sushi station offering classics like California rolls and, if you’re feeling adventurous, some sake to wash it down.
- Three-Legged Races: Pair up guests for this test of teamwork and balance. It becomes even more hilarious when paired with impromptu dance moves.
- Egg-and-Spoon Races: Perfect for a bit of suspense-filled fun as participants try not to drop their eggs. You can make things more interesting when if replace eggs with water balloons.
- Tug-of-War: Get everyone’s competitive spirits up with this strength-based classic.
- Sack Races: A hilarious hop to the finish line that’ll have everyone laughing.
- And nothing – absolutely nothing – beats watching a group of 40-somethings rediscover their competitive spirit during a heated round of capture the flag.
- Public Parks: Lots of space and often scenic, just make sure to check permit requirements.
- Large Backyards: A more private setting for those looking for intimacy without sacrificing space.
- Sport Fields: These are perfect for larger groups and often come with additional facilities like restrooms.
- Ropes, Eggs, Spoons, Sacks: Essential equipment for the games mentioned.
- Scoreboard and Prizes: Keep track of winners and ramp up the competitive edge.
- Retro Uniforms: Encourage guests to dress up in sports gear from their favorite decade for added flare.
- Brewing Equipment: You can rent these from craft stores or see if your expert can provide them.
- Ingredients: This depends on what you’re brewing. For beer, you’ll need hops, malt, yeast, and water.
- Bottling Supplies: Don’t forget bottles, caps and a capping machine.
- Customized Labels: These can be a fun takeaway for your guests. Design labels to commemorate the event, featuring perhaps a funny quote or a photo of the birthday boy.
Crafting the Culinary Stops
Set the Mood With Music
Music ties it all together but skip the obvious choices. Instead of generic “Italian restaurant” music, dig deeper. Find the street music of Naples, the jazz clubs of Tokyo the indie rock of Mexico City. Let the sounds transport people as much as the flavors.
Interactive Elements
Engage your guests further with fun quizzes about the countries featured at the party. Award small prizes for correct answers, like a bottle of wine from the country in question or themed goodies.
An extra way to make it special: encourage story sharing. Place cards at each station prompt guests to share their own travel tales or dream destinations. By the end of the night you’re not just celebrating forty years – you’re planning the next forty years of adventures.
Retro Sports Day
Remember when scoring a goal or winning a race meant everything? Forty years young is the perfect excuse to relive those glory days – with a healthy dose of laughter thrown in. A retro sports day brings out the kid in everyone, especially when you mix classic games with modern twists.
Step 1: Pick Your Games
Ditch the serious sports and embrace the ridiculous. Some top choices include:
Step 2: Arrange the Venue
Finding the right space makes all the difference. Public parks work great, but don’t overlook school fields on weekends or community centers with outdoor areas. You want enough room for people to spread out but stay close enough to cheer each other on. The sweet spot? A space where you can hear the laughter from one game without it drowning out the trash talk from another. Some ideas:
Step 3: Gather Your Gear
Here’s what you’ll need to make sure the day runs smoothly:
Step 4: Team Up!
To foster camaraderie and a touch of friendly competition, divide your guests into teams. You can do random draws or let them pick teams based on old school affiliations, favorite retro sports stars, or simply the funniest team names.
Step 5: Fuel Up with Food and Drinks
Food and drinks need to match the energy. Think coolers filled with those neon-colored sports drinks we all pretended were giving us superpowers as kids. Set up a grill for hot dogs and burgers – there’s something about the smell of grilling food that makes everyone feel like a champion. And don’t forget the ice cream sandwiches. They’re still the perfect post-game reward, just like when we were kids.
Step 6: Prizes and Awards
End the day on a high note with a simple awards ceremony. Hand out prizes for winners, the best-dressed team, or even for the funniest fall during the sack race! Goody bags with retro candies and personalized trophies can add a nice touch to make everyone feel like a champion.
The secret ingredient? Team shirts. Get some cheap jerseys and let teams design their own logos. You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a group of adults proudly wearing “The Pulled Hamstrings” or “Mid-Life Crisis All-Stars” across their chests.
DIY Brewing Workshop
Ever noticed how the best conversations happen while making something together? A brewing workshop turns your 40th into a craft beer adventure story you’ll be telling for years. It’s like a cooking class, science experiment, and tasting party rolled into one unforgettable afternoon.
Choosing Your Brew
The first step is to decide what you’ll be brewing. Beer is a classic choice, but you’re not limited to it. Cider and kombucha are also excellent options for those looking for something a bit different or for guests who might prefer a lighter drink. Each brew has its unique process and ingredient list, so pick one that’ll excite your guests the most.
Setting Up the Workshop Space
You’ll need a space that’s large enough to accommodate your brewing equipment and your guests comfortably. A home garage, a local brewery that rents out space, or a specially rented venue with the necessary facilities will work perfectly. Make sure there’s enough room for everyone to roll up their sleeves and get involved!
Gathering Materials
Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:
Partner with a Pro
Unless you’re a brewmaster yourself I’d recommend partnering with a local brewery or a professional brewing expert. You want someone who can explain the difference between hops and malt without making everyone feel like they’re back in chemistry class. The best workshops I’ve seen start with tasting what you’re about to make. There’s nothing like sipping a finished product while learning how to create your own version.
Brewing as Bonding
Think of the brewing process as not just making beer, cider, or kombucha, but also as brewing new memories. It’s a chance for everyone to do something hands-on, which is always a great way to bond. And the best part? At the end of it, you have your very own birthday batch to take home or even enjoy later during the party.
Set up brewing stations where small groups can work together. It creates natural conversation flows and keeps everyone involved. Plus there’s something deeply satisfying about working with ingredients that have been bringing people together for thousands of years. The smell of malted barley, the sound of bubbling fermentation – it’s almost magical.
Safety First
Remember to keep safety in mind. Brewing involves heat and potentially hazardous materials. Make sure everyone knows to be careful, and keep a first-aid kit handy, just in case.
Finishing Up
Don’t rush the process. The beauty of brewing lies in its rhythms. Those waiting periods between steps? That’s when the best stories come out. Set up a tasting corner with local craft beers that share similar profiles to what you’re making. It gives everyone something to do during the downtimes and helps develop those beer critic palates.
The best part comes weeks later. Plan a “first taste” party once the brew is ready. Everyone who helped create it comes back to try their handiwork. Nothing beats the pride of pouring a beer you helped make, even if it turns out a bit… interesting. Those bottles become instant memories complete with custom labels marking the big 4-0.
“This Is Your Life” Immersive Experience
Some parties celebrate a moment. This one celebrates a journey. Transform your space into a living timeline of memories, stories and laughs that span forty years. It’s part museum, part reunion, and entirely personal.
Start collecting memories early. Reach out to family, friends, old classmates – anyone with a story to tell. Ask for photos, ticket stubs, old mixtapes, anything that captures a moment in time. The real treasures often come from the most unexpected places. That faded concert ticket might spark a three-hour conversation about the worst road trip ever.
Create memory stations instead of formal displays. Each area becomes its own time capsule. The ’80s corner might have your first skateboard alongside that questionable school photo. The ’90s space could feature your college memorabilia and that band poster you thought made you look cool. Let people wander and discover at their own pace.
Sound shapes memories as much as sight. Build playlists that evolve through the decades, matching the music to the memories on display. That first dance song, the graduation ceremony soundtrack, tunes from road trips and weddings – they all tell part of your story.
Leave space for guests to add their own memories. Set up a video booth where they can record messages or tell stories about shared adventures. Keep a journal nearby for written messages. By the end of the night, you’ve not just celebrated your past – you’ve captured new memories for the future.
Sally Gibson is the founder of Someone Sent you a Greeting, a holiday/celebration website. Sally’s writing work has been mentioned in Woman’s World, Yahoo, Women’s Health, MSN and more. If you have any questions get in contact with one of the team via the about page.