The 35 Best 21st Birthday Party Ideas and Themes
Lauren Miolene
Editor
Twenty-one? More like twenty-fun! A 21st birthday is a milestone to remember and you’re going to want to celebrate big. Not all 21st birthday parties have to be held at a bar—at home, outdoors, or a special event venue are all great spots to celebrate.
We've got lots of fun 21st birthday party ideas, themes, and games for girls, guys, or however you identify—that don’t have to include alcohol if that’s not your thing! So get ready for a 21st birthday party celebration you’ll remember forever.
READ MORE:
- A Simple Birthday Party Checklist
- 37 Fun and Fresh Adult Birthday Party Ideas
- 11 Outdoor Birthday Party Ideas
21st Birthday Party Ideas for Her:
1. Barbie Theme
Come on Barbie, let’s go party for 21! If you’re looking for 21st birthday party themes that are trendy and perfectly pink, Barbie is right up your alley. Enjoy your day in the most Barbie fashion with endless pink outfits, drinks and food, and plenty of other Barbie themed party ideas.
2. 2000s Throwback Party
If you’re turning 21 anytime soon, you were born in the 2000s! Host a throwback house party filled with crimped hair, skirts over jeans, and tons of body glitter to celebrate. Don’t forget your favorite throwback snacks. Serve childhood favorites including Gushers, Lunchables, and Kool-Aid (can also be spiked) that will give everyone a sense of nostalgia. Take a walk down memory lane and make your own 2000s trivia quiz for the perfect 21st birthday party game to play.
Pro tip: This doesn’t have to just be the 2000s. Choose any decade for a fun 21st birthday theme—an 80s and 90s party are popular options.
3. Mamma Mia Theme
Here we go again! Celebrate your big birthday Sophie and Donna style with a fabulous Mamma Mia themed party! Rock those bell bottoms, book an ABBA tribute band to play the hits, and dance the night away.
4. Spa Day
Relax and refresh for the big 2-1 with a spa day filled with manicures, pedicures, massages, and facials. Light some aromatherapy candles for a calming ambiance and destress with a self-care day.
5. Princess Diaries Theme
If you're turning 21 and feeling nostalgic, why not take inspiration from your favorite childhood movie? Celebrate Princess Mia Thermopolis style with paint balloon darts, corn dogs, and a bounce castle, because you are a princess.
Princess Diaries Themed Party Guide
6. Coachella Party
When you think of a music festival, you probably think of Coachella. Turn this star-studded event into the ultimate boho 21st birthday party theme. Book a variety of live musicians, Instagram-able food trucks, and even body paint artists to recreate a festival vibe at home.
Pro tip: Set up a DIY flower crown bar for guests to get creative and festive.
7. Slumber Party
No matter how old you are, everyone loves a good slumber party! Pick movies for a chick-flick viewing marathon, stock up on your favorite candy, and celebrate your 21st with a classic pillow fight.
Pro tip: Take a glimpse into the future and book a session with a virtual fortune teller or psychic.
8. Paint and Sip
As you probably know, paint and sips have been becoming extremely popular recently. What’s better than sitting down with some friends, recreating a work of art, and sipping on a glass of wine?!
9. Masquerade Ball
A 21st birthday is a big milestone, and you deserve to go all out. A masquerade ball is the perfect way to combine an upscale soiree with the fun and excitement of a costume party. Guests can dress up in their best suits and gowns complete with a mask for a little added mystery.
21st Birthday Party Ideas for Him:
10. Karaoke Party
Who doesn’t love a good karaoke party? Get up on stage and sing your heart out to iconic songs including “Dancing Queen,” “Shallow,” or “Wannabe.” Book a talented karaoke DJ on The Bash to start planning your 21st birthday party now!
11. Casino Night
A casino night is a must for a new 21-year-old! If going to Las Vegas isn’t an option, rent novelty casino games to bring the casino fun to you. Choose from slot machines, poker tables, and roulette to create an at-home version of gambling favorites. Not only is this the perfect option for celebrating with guests that aren't 21, but it will also save money!
Pro tip: Find more inspiration for a casino party theme.
12. Costume Party
Everyone loves an excuse to play dress up! Choose a fun theme, be creative, and get ready to celebrate. Dress like your favorite celebrity, TV show character, superheroes, and more!
Pro tip: You’re going to want to capture moments from your 21st birthday costume party. Book a professional photographer to take pictures during the celebration.
13. Camping or Glamping
All the fun of camping but with no bugs or dirt! Whether you choose to camp outside or glamp inside, guests will love sleeping in a tent, sitting by a bonfire, and roasting marshmallows together.
14. Western Theme
Western themed parties are still all the rage, so grab your cowboy hats and boots and celebrate your 21st birthday with a good old-fashioned country bash. Book a country band to serenade guests, wear your best western inpsired outfit, book a mechanical bull, and line dance the night away!
15. Scavenger Hunt
Still not sure what to do for your 21st birthday party? Create a scavenger hunt for you and your guests! Whether you do the scavenger hunt in your house, or want to take it out on the town, set up some clues that can lead to your final 21st birthday present.
16. Black Light Party
You can never go wrong with a black light party for any milestone birthday celebration. The setup is simple: have all your guests dress in neon and decorate your space with accents to match. Set up plenty of black lights and watch everyone glow throughout the party. Book a DJ to spin your favorite tracks, a bartender to craft delicious cocktails, and get ready to celebrate.
Indoor 21st Birthday Party Ideas :
17. Movie Party
Who can say no to a movie marathon? Choose all of their favorite movies (Rom-Coms? Horror? Disney?) for the ultimate birthday viewing party. Cozy up on the couch, set up a DIY popcorn bar, play movie trivia games, and serve some of these award-winning cocktails.
While a movie night is traditionally inside, take advantage of the nice weather by moving the watch party outside. Rent an outdoor movie screen, set up plenty of comfortable seating with pillows and blankets, and enjoy the show.
18. Escape Room
Escape rooms are extremely popular and are a perfect way to get all your guests involved. Find an escape room near you for party-goers to use their detective skills, work together, and break out of the room together.
19. Arcade or Bowling Alley
We are loving the resurgence of bowling alleys and arcades, so book yourself a lane or two! Many bowling alleys and arcades have food options, drinks, and a bar so you can cheers to 21 while scoring strikes and playing your favorite games.
20. Game Night
You can never be too old for classic board games or video games, so host an epic game night for your 21st birthday. Bring out your favorite games like Monopoly, Just Dance, or Mario Kart, invite guests to bring theirs, and easily celebrate this milestone birthday.
Outdoor 21st Birthday Party Ideas :
21. Pool Party
If you’re lucky enough to turn 21 during the summer, a pool party seems like the perfect way to celebrate the day! Host a laid-back BBQ with friends or maybe book a rooftop pool to celebrate turning 21 in style. Check out our bookable venues!
22. Beer or Wine Tasting
Now that you’re officially 21, it’s time for wine and beer tastings! Choose from local wineries, breweries, or pick up a few bottles to recreate your own tasting at home. Learn the differences between the regions and discuss the different tasting notes with guests. A wine tasting or beer tasting is one of the best 21st birthday party themes ot celebrate.
23. Beach Party
Take your birthday celebration to the beach! Spend the day in the sunshine with friends, family, and maybe a cocktail or two for your 21st birthday. Set up some beach party games like spikeball, water balloon toss, or a scavenger hunt. Book a DJ to really get the party started!
24. Picnic
You can never go wrong with a chic and classic picnic party to celebrate your 21 birthday party. You can do this in your backyard, a park, or even the beach. You’ll want to keep the food light and easy to transport, but don’t forget the champagne to cheer for your next chapter!
25. Party Boat
Summer babies, this one’s for you! A party boat is a fun outdoor celebration to ring in the big 2-1. Find a local boat company to take you out on the water, invite your friends, bring snacks and drinks, and float into your new year.
Other Fun 21st Birthday Party Ideas :
26. Dinner Party
Keep things classy for celebrating 21 with a fun dinner party alongside friends and family. Whether you are dining at your favorite restaurant or having a small 21st birthday party at home, make it extra special with table centerpieces, a multi-course menu, and an Instagram-worthy birthday cake.
Pro tip: To take your dinner party to the next level, book one of our professional caterers to prepare food and serve guests.
27. Party Bus
If you’ve been on a party bus for prom or a school dance before, you know how much fun it is. Get the VIP experience and ride to different bars in style with the help of booking a party bus for your big day. With 21st birthday party decorations, champagne, and fun music, this will definitely make for a memorable night.
Pro tip: Keep the party going and head on a mini road trip with friends for a little adventure!
28. Mixology Class
Now that you’re 21, it’s time to learn how to make some fun cocktails! Book a professional bartender or find a mixology class to mix up fancy drinks during your next celebration with friends. Spend some time with the pros to create some signature sips and find combinations you like.
29. Birthday Brunch
Brunch is always a good idea, especially for a 21st birthday! Head to your favorite local spot for bottomless mimosas, or make your favorite dishes and cocktails at home.
30. Bar Crawl
An oldie but a goodie. If you don’t know how to celebrate your 21st birthday, you can never go wrong with the classic bar crawl. Find a few bars in the same area and spend a little time at each one for a memorable birthday party.
31. Beer Olympics
Who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Gather your friends, form teams, and set up exciting games like flip cup, King’s Cup, and Beer Bottle Ring Toss. These games can be played with any beverage ranging from beer, to juice, to water.
32. Hibachi Night
What better way to celebrate your big day than with delicious food! Head to your local hibachi restaurant or hire a company to bring the hibachi experience to your home. Enjoy the excitment of the classic onion volcano and of course take a sake shot for a memorble 21st birthday idea.
33. Birthday Fiesta
Toast to your big day with a vibrant birthday fiesta! Serve a variety of margaritas and classic Mexican food. Whip up plenty of nachos, tacos, and fajitas for guests to enjoy, or you can always book a food truck for minimal mess. Don't forget the music—bring in a mariachi band to get everyone dancing and make your celebration unforgettable.
34. Bring Your Own Board
If you’re on TikTok, we’re sure you’ve seen this idea, but we think this would be perfect if you aren’t sure what to do for your 21st birthday! Host a charcuterie party where all your guests have to bring their own special board to share. The ideas can range from anything like crackers and cheese, to chicken nuggets and french fries, to even a dessert board. Let your guests be creative and see what everyone brings to the table, literally!
35. 1920s Gatsby Party
It wasn’t called the roaring twenties for nothing! Now that we are officially back in the 20’s it only seems appropriate to host a 1920s birthday party that Jay Gatsby would approve of. Book live jazz music, dancers, or a DJ for an extravagant celebration you’ll remember forever.
Pro tip: This 1920s party isn’t during the prohibition! Book a bartender to mix and serve delicious drinks at the event for guests to enjoy.
Check out our 21st birthday party ideas and themes Pinterest board for more inspiration.
Explore more birthday party themes and ideas.
