If your birthday falls during the winter months, then coming up with an exciting way to celebrate can feel like a difficult task. The cold, wet weather can be uninspiring and the short, dark days oppressive, but you owe it to yourself to mark the occasion, and the good news is that there are still some great ways to celebrate in style.
From lavish spa days to civilised cocktail parties, we’ve rounded up some of the best of them, so get those invitations sent out and get set for the best birthday you’ve had in years.
Treat yourself to a spa day
If the stresses and strains of modern life are forever taking their toll and leaving you feeling frazzled, then splurging on a luxurious spa day is the perfect way to find some much needed rest and relaxation and get you back to feeling your best. Soothe away those aches and pains in the jacuzzi, sweat out toxins in the sauna and enjoy a long and leisurely massage or facial, and you’re guaranteed to come out feeling like a million dollars.
A spa day can be just as enjoyable on your own as with a group of friends, and is the ultimate act of self care – but if you do fancy upping the fun factor then invite a few of your nearest and dearest and incorporate a lavish champagne lunch to round things off in style. They’re almost certain to welcome the chance to indulge in a bit of pampering, too, and it’s a great opportunity to spend some time together in a relaxing environment.
Hold a cheese and wine evening
If you’re set on staying in, then a cheese and wine evening is a great way to go and involves minimal preparation or organisation on your part. Choose some of your best vintages from the wine cellar, buy in a selection of fine cheeses from around the world and invite your friends over for a civilised and cultured evening.
You don’t have to be a cheese and wine expert yourself to make this work, but if you’re eager to add an extra sense of luxury and professionalism then consider bringing in some waiting staff to hand around the cheeses and a sommelier to explain each wine and make pairing recommendations.
Host a games night
Another great idea if you’re keen to stay at home and hide away from the bad weather, a games night is the perfect choice if you’re hoping for an evening packed full of laughter and fun. There are lots of ways to approach it, and inviting your guests over for some classic board games like Monopoly always go down a treat – but if you’re hoping for something a little more glamorous, then recreating a casino atmosphere and bringing in a roulette table is a great way to bring the adrenaline and opulence you love together as one.
If you’re planning on inviting a large group of guests, then organising different games stations around the room – like poker and baccarat tables – will ensure that everyone has something to do and can get involved with a host of different pursuits. Bring in some black tie waiting staff to hand around champagne and canapes throughout the evening, and consider hiring a croupier or live dealer to really bring the night to life. And of course, ask your guests to dress to the nines in black tie for a traditional high-end casino feel.
Plan a luxury winter city break – or a sunshine escape abroad
Of course, there’s nothing quite like getting away from it all to mark another year of life, and booking yourself an opulent city break in Europe is a great way to do just that. Cities like Paris and Rome are great during the winter months as they are quieter and free of tourists, so you can see the sights, luxuriate in your five star hotel and book in at that must-try Michelin starred eatery all without battling the crowds.
If your birthday is before Christmas, then a trip to the Christmas markets in Prague, Munich or Budapest is a fun way to get into the festive spirit. But if you’d rather escape the cold weather than embrace it, why not book some first class flights and head off on a sunshine getaway instead? The Maldives, Mauritius and the Caribbean all enjoy excellent weather during the British winter, and are the perfect places to relax, unwind and enjoy five star service while you celebrate.
