31 Fun 27th Birthday Ideas to Revel in Your Twenties in 2025
The late twenties are a sweet spot — old enough to know better, young enough to still get away with it. Whether you're feeling reflective, ready to party or somewhere in between, these 27th birthday ideas are all about celebrating where you are right now. Whether that means trying something totally new, gathering your favorite people, or just treating yourself to a day that feels like you, it’s worth marking the moment.
Birthdays have a way of getting us to pause and take stock, and turning 27 is no different. According to Psychology Today, older people actually tend to be happier than their younger counterparts. And while you're getting closer to a new decade, there's still plenty of time to enjoy being in your twenties — one more year to do things your way, reflect on what you've done, and get excited for what's next.
Jump to Section
- 27th Birthday Ideas for Her That Go Beyond Brunch
- 27th Birthday Ideas for Him That Are Anything But Basic
- Planning Your Own 27th? These Ideas Are All About You
- 27th Birthday Ideas at Home That Still Feel Special
- Theme Party Ideas That Totally Fit Your Late Twenties Era
- 27th Birthday Ideas FAQs
27th Birthday Ideas For Her That Go Beyond Brunch
1. Take a Cooking Class
If you’re looking for an interactive and fun 27th birthday idea for a foodie, consider taking a cooking class with friends. Slow-cook meat and whip up homemade BBQ sauce with cooking classes in Asheville, hand-knead pasta for some of the best Italian food with cooking classes in the Bay Area or prepare ultra-fresh seafood at cooking classes in Baltimore — or find a cooking class in a city near you.
Not only do you get the same incredible food you’d find at your favorite restaurant, but you also gain the skills to make a new dish or cuisine at home. All the cleanup is taken care of, so you can focus on learning and having fun with friends.
2. Host a Wine Tasting
If you’re more of a happy hour girl than a brunch lover, then a wine tasting could be a really special 27th birthday idea. You could either take a trip somewhere new or team up with a local wine shop to bring a sommelier into your home. If you love to host, then this is a wonderful activity that’s ideal for socializing and enjoying. Serve or cater delicious small bites and take your tastebuds on a trip through France or Italy with a few glasses of wine.
3. Plan a Picnic
There’s something nostalgic about a picnic, but it feels like these days, most people forget how good it is to eat outside with friends. As far as 27th birthday ideas go, this one keeps things simple and special. Send out proper invitations, pack a few baskets with your favorite snacks and drinks, and meet up in your local park to enjoy fresh air, soft grass and good company.
4. Splurge on Fine Dining
For any foodie, treating yourself to a spectacular dinner tops the list of 27th birthday ideas. Scoring a reservation at the best spot in town might take some planning, but it is worth it. Whether it is a cozy steakhouse or a multi-course tasting menu, celebrating the year with a memorable meal always hits the right note.
5. Give Back
It’s easy to find volunteers during the holidays, but support is needed year-round. If a party or presents are not your thing, giving back is one of those 27th birthday ideas that stays with you. Whether you spend time at a shelter, food bank or animal rescue, starting your year with purpose can set the tone for everything that follows.
6. Have a Photoshoot
Even though it feels like we always have a camera on hand, a lot of us still end up without many photos of ourselves we actually love. One day, you’ll be glad to have a snapshot of what 27 — or even 47 — looked like. It might not be your typical celebration, but planning a photoshoot is one of those 27th birthday ideas that can be surprisingly fun. Whether you and a few friends take turns snapping pics around town or you book a proper photographer for you and your dog, it is a great way to mark the moment with something lasting.
27th Birthday Ideas for Him That Are Anything but Basic
7. Hit the Links
If you are planning 27th birthday ideas for him and he loves golf, a day on the course is an easy win. Book a prime tee time, arrange a post-round lunch or happy hour and make it feel more like a celebration than a regular weekend. You could even surprise him by having a few friends waiting at the first tee when he arrives.
8. Once in a Blue Moon
If you're looking for 27th birthday ideas that feel special, you can't go passed the theme “Once in a Blue Moon.” From cobalt blue cocktails to celestial decorations, this theme is both beautiful and symbolic — a nod to the idea that this particular year is one-of-a-kind. You can go all-in with a moonlit outdoor party, silvery-blue outfits and a playlist full of dreamy vibes. Whether you’re stargazing or dancing under string lights, it’s a fun way to make 27 feel a little bit magical.
9. Belt It Out at a Karaoke Bar
When was the last time you hit a karaoke bar? If it’s been a while, add it to your list of 27th birthday ideas. Enjoy a nice dinner and a few drinks with your close friends then head to the best karaoke bar near you and let loose. No one’s judging and you might be surprised just how fun it is.
10. Cribbage Championship
If you’re feeling nostalgic or just want to do something offbeat, try hosting a cribbage tournament with friends. It’s a quirky, underrated game that deserves a comeback. Play outside if the weather’s nice, pair it with cocktails, and lean into the fun. Athletic attire is admired, not required — but a little friendly competition never hurts.
11. Check an Item off Your Bucket List
You will likely need to plan ahead for this one, but birthdays are a great excuse to take a look at your bucket list. Whether skydiving tops your list of 27th birthday ideas or you’re dreaming of scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, having something bold to look forward to makes the day even better.
12. Learn a New Skill
If you’re looking for 27th birthday ideas that are a little different from the usual dinner and drinks, consider taking a class to learn a new skill. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn woodwork, or your girlfriend has been begging you to take her line dancing… It’s incredible for your brain to learn new things, and you just might uncover your newest favorite hobby. Inviting friends makes it all the more fun, too.
Planning Your Own 27th? These Ideas Are All About You
13. Plan a Desert Getaway
Looking for chill 27th birthday ideas that mix sunshine and serenity? Head to the desert for a few days of total relaxation. Whether it’s Joshua Tree, Sedona or another scenic escape, find a great Airbnb with a pool and maybe even book a private chef so all you have to think about is soaking up the sun. If you’re feeling active, there’s plenty of hiking and nature to explore.
14. Write Down 27 Goals
Even if your birthday doesn’t fall on January 1st, it can still feel like a personal new year. Take some time to reflect, journal about what you’re grateful for and write down 27 goals for the year ahead. They can be big, small or totally random — the point is to get excited about what’s next.
15. Plan a Travel Milestone
If you love to travel, why not set a fun long-term goal for yourself? Maybe it is visiting 30 countries by 30 or exploring every national park in your country. Use your 27th birthday as a planning day to dream big, research routes and start mapping out the adventures ahead. Having something exciting on the horizon makes the year feel even more special.
16. Zen Out
As much as birthdays are fun, they can be stressful and overwhelming to some people. If you’d rather not have an over-the-top birthday but still want to do something special, head to your local spa and relax. Some 27th birthday ideas are about going big, but others are all about recharging. A solo spa day, a fresh haircut or even just a quiet moment to yourself can feel just as special.
17. Challenge Yourself With the Elements
If you’re all-in on wellness this year — or hoping to be — some 27th birthday ideas can start with a challenge. Book a sauna and ice bath session at your gym or a local wellness center, and invite a couple of close friends to join. You could even hit a workout class first, then unwind together with the ultimate recovery combo.
18. Hire a Chef
Even if you know how to cook, there’s something really special about having someone do it for you. Private chefs are highly trained experts so you know you'll be in for an amazing meal. If you’re after 27th birthday ideas that feel a little more elevated, this one should be on your list. It’s a great way to enjoy an amazing meal with none of the stress, especially if you’re planning a dinner party at home.
27th Birthday Ideas at Home That Still Feel Special
19. Old School Sleepover
Host a throwback party with a small handful of your closest friends, just like the ones you used to have in middle school or high school. Everyone can wear pajamas as they make homemade popcorn, watch movies and bond like teenagers. It's a 27th birthday party idea for her that never goes out of style and feels wonderfully nostalgic. You don’t even have to host if you don’t want to, you could book an Airbnb or hotel suite instead.
20. Solve a Murder Mystery
You do not need to leave the house to try something new. Murder mystery games make fun 27th birthday ideas that let you get into character and run with it. There are tons of specially themed murder mystery games you can purchase or you can even make your own or host the event virtually if you want to.
21. Make Home Improvements
Nothing kicks off your new year better than a strong feeling of accomplishment, and tackling a home improvement project can be just that. While it's not the most glamorous of 27th birthday ideas, you can turn it into one. If you’ve been putting off that landscaping job or re-doing the deck, challenge yourself to finish it in time to throw an outdoor birthday party. The same thing goes for that powder room — celebrate finishing it by having friends over for dinner.
22. Host a Game Night
If it’s been a while since you dusted off the board games, hosting a game night is one of those 27th birthday ideas that gives you an excuse to get them out. Plus, you’ll be reminded how fun good old-fashioned board games can be! Make it a fun at-home party with food and drinks, and ask your friends to bring their favorite game so you can have multiple stations going at once.
23. Act Your Shoe Size Not Your Age
Yes, we know the expression is usually the reverse, but this is a lot more fun. Just because you’re 27 doesn’t mean you have to act grown up. This hilarious and fun 27th birthday idea challenges you to act like a little kid. Get a bouncy house, dress up like a princess and maybe even eat your cake with your hands.
24. Good Old-Fashioned Pizza Party
Depending on when and where you grew up, chances are you went to a few pizza parties. From school celebrations to weekend hangouts, it’s a classic for a reason. As far as 27th birthday ideas go, hosting a nostalgic pizza party at home is simple, fun and still feels special. Add a few old-school touches like balloons or an ice cream cake to round it out.
Theme Party Ideas That Totally Fit Your Late Twenties Era
25. Bingo Night Bash
Bingo might have a rep as a game for grandparents and middle schoolers, but it’s secretly a ton of fun — especially with the right crowd. If you're looking for lighthearted 27th birthday ideas, turn your place into a full-on bingo hall. Hand out fun daubers, serve themed snacks and maybe offer some quirky prizes for the winners. It’s easy to organize and always gets people laughing, especially when the competition heats up.
26. All the Eras
It’s almost impossible to see the word eras and not think of a Taylor Swift. Her recent tour was all about celebrating different stages of life, which makes it quite fitting for 27th birthday ideas. At 27, you’ve likely already had a few eras of your own, from college days to first jobs to finding your groove. Make it a classic Taylor Swift-themed party with her albums playing on repeat and friends dressed as their favorite era.
27. Celebrate the 27th
Even if your 27th birthday doesn’t land on the 27th of the month, you can still use it as a theme. Pick a quirky or unexpected holiday that happens on the 27th and build your celebration around that. March 27 is World Theatre Day which makes a great excuse for a costume party or karaoke night. September 27 is World Tourism Day which is perfect if you want a travel-themed party with food, drinks or outfits inspired by different countries.
28. Retro Arcade Vibes
Channel years past with one of the most playful 27th birthday ideas out there. A night at a retro arcade is low effort, full of nostalgia and a guaranteed good time with friends. Dressing the part turns this into a full-blown theme party. Simply load up on tokens and let the games do the rest.
29. Throw Your 6th 21st Birthday
For most young people in the U.S., turning 21 is a pretty pivotal moment in their lives. You feel on top of the world with all these new possibilities and no restrictions. Why not channel that same energy toward a 27th birthday idea? Play the songs that were hot back in the day, and party like you’re still young and irresponsible!
30. Roarin’ 20s Great Gatsby Theme
A classic Great Gatsby-themed party works for a lot of different ages and occasions, and it’s always a hit. Black and gold and all that glitters can bring your 27th birthday ideas to life. Dressing up and transforming your space with a little Gatsby flair turns any night into something unforgettable. Who says costumes are just for Halloween?
31. Noughties Throwback Party
Low-rise jeans, butterfly clips and flip phones made the early 2000s unforgettable. A noughties-themed birthday party is perfect for 27th birthday ideas that don’t take themselves too seriously. Blast the era’s biggest hits, from Britney to Usher, and decorate with lava lamps, inflatable furniture and metallic everything. Encourage guests to come dressed like they just stepped out of a 2004 music video and hand out disposable cameras for a little extra nostalgia.
27th Birthday Ideas FAQs
How Can I Celebrate My Birthday In a Unique Way?
Planning ahead to your next birthday celebration can have you wondering how to make this year a little extra special. If you want to do something outside the “typical” birthday celebrations, consider your interests and passions. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate a birthday — it’s your day after all — so feel free to step outside the box. From volunteering or taking a class to braving extreme temps, the time for adventurous birthdays is now!
How Do Most Adults Celebrate Their Birthdays?
There’s no one-size-fits-all birthday formula for adults that guarantees a good time — it’s all about the people you celebrate with. And, everyone has different ways they like to celebrate. It could be a booze cruise surprise party, an extravagant trip overseas or a cozy night at home with a wine tasting and a private chef. For adults with kids, often a trip to their favorite restaurant is enough to make the day feel special.
Every year is worth celebrating, even if it’s not an exciting whole number. Plus, everything you try out now for 27th birthday ideas can be recycled and reused as the best 30th birthday party ideas if you really love them. Whether you use this as an opportunity to enjoy all the things you love or to try new things and branch out, you can’t go wrong.
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