Looking for a killer 30th birthday party theme for your best friend, family member, or yourself? We’ve got you covered with this fun list of 30th birthday themes, from the classics to the weird and wonderful.
It’s time to get the party started—literally! Planning a 30th birthday celebration is an exciting task, and one of the most important elements in planning any successful event is finding just the right theme.
Whether you are looking for something totally unique or simple and classic, there are so many possibilities out there that it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with our top picks for creative 30th birthday themes sure to make this special day unforgettable!
So pull out your party planning supplies – it’s time to discover the very best 30th birthday themes!
Unique 30th Birthday Themes
1. Astrology
An astrology-themed birthday party can be a unique and enjoyable way to celebrate a special occasion! Everyone can dress according to their own Zodiac signs—it’s a creative, out-of-the-box way of looking at your friends in a new light. Plus, you’ll get lots of commentary and clever banter while everyone decides whether people fit their sign or not.
2. Dress Up as The Birthday Girl
Ready for an absolutely hilarious 30th birthday party theme? The idea for this theme is inspired by this viral video. Find an old school photo of the birthday girl and have everyone at the party come dressed up as the photo. The more matching the better! Go all out with the clothes and accessories for an amazing party theme that is equal parts unique, memorable, and hilarious.
3. Tea Party
What better way to celebrate turning 30 than throwing a fabulous tea party themed birthday bash for the special birthday girl! Add some fun hats, yummy treats and a little touch of Alice in Wonderland to make the party one that she will remember forever. Brighten the event even more with crisp white linens, colorful macaroons, and beautifully decorated flower centerpieces.
4. Death To My 20s
Getting older can be scary, but planning a 30th birthday party doesn’t have to be! Your 20s are in the rearview mirror, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have one last hurrah and say goodbye with a bang! How about hosting a “Death to My 20s” party? It may sound a little morbid, but it’s also the perfect opportunity for you to find humor in aging—so grab some friends, put on your mourning best, and have fun.
5. Murder Mystery
Ready to solve a case? Why not throw a murder mystery-themed birthday party? Encourage your guests to dress up like their favorite character from classic board games! Put on your Sherlock Holmes detective hat and mingle with Colonel Mustard and Mrs. White. It’s sure to make for an unforgettable night!
6. Wig Party
Turning 30 is something special! There’s always the classic party, but why not mix it up with some out-of-the-box fun? A themed big bash is a great way to make your milestone memorable! And we think nothing beats a wig party; go wild and get wacky with your friends and dress up in outrageous styles!
Classic 30th Birthday Themes
7. Black and Gold
Think elegantly with a black and gold color scheme for a 30th birthday party! This timeless combination is not only unique but also gender neutral. It’s the perfect way to give your celebration a hint of decadence and vintage Hollywood glam. Let the bold contrast of luxe blacks and glimmering gold accents transform your special night into an unforgettable gathering.
8. Favorite Color
Are you–or someone special you know–celebrating their 30th birthday soon? This is an occasion that deserves a truly unique party, so why not choose a perfect theme inspired by the guest of honor’s favorite color? It’ll make the festivities even brighter! After all, incorporating vibrant shades in decorations and activities will definitely add an extra touch of specialness to any 30th birthday celebration.
9. Disco
Disco fever never dies! From groovy tunes that’ll get your body movin’ and shakin’ to hairdos that’ll hit the chandeliers and sparkly disco balls that’ll light up your world, a disco-themed 30th birthday party is sure to be absolutely unforgettable. Step into the funky world of the 70s and never want to leave!
10. Pajamas
Ready for some fun? Celebrate the turning of a new decade with friends and family at a Pajama Party! Dance the night away in your coziest slippers. Gather round for stories and laughter that will be remembered for years–heck, bring pints of ice cream to make this special moment really rock! It’s never been more casual. Here’s to many more birthdays, restful nights and days filled with joy!
11. Pool Party
Planning a summer birthday around a pool party is the ultimate way to feel young again! Cool off from the sunshine, set up a fun playlist, and get ready to make some amazing memories. There’s nothing quite like taking a dip in a pool and being surrounded by all of your friends and family on your big day. As you look up into the sunny sky ahead of you, what better new year’s wish could one ask for than another successful trip around the sun?
12. Garden Party
Bring on the shimmering summer fun! A garden party is a perfect theme for your 30th birthday. Soak up some sun and get everyone together outside with fire-side barbecue delights. Add to the festivities with fun decorations like balloons, fiesta lights, or even a few garden gnomes for added personality. Make your special day memorable with an outdoor soiree like no other.
13. Masquerade
Do you know someone special who’s turning 30? Throw them a memorable masquerade ball-themed birthday celebration and make their wish come true! Let your mysterious side shine with this flirty idea. Not only are masquerade balls wistful and romantic, but they also never fail to bring a hint of intrigue to the party—especially when people have no idea who’s behind each mask! Throw in some scrumptious hors d’oeuvres, delicious co*cktails, and inviting lighting….and you’ll have yourself the perfect atmosphere for a party!
Movie & TV 30th Birthday Themes
14. Mamma Mia!
Gather up your favorite dancing queens–it’s time to start your own party! A Mamma Mia themed birthday party would be a blast! Not only does it have a no-skip soundtrack with all of the classic ABBA hits, but you can make the theme really fun. Set up some playful decorations, put on your dancing shoes, and grab a glass of wine to sip while partying into the night. Sounds like an amazing way to celebrate!
15. 13 Going On 30
Are you ready for a birthday like no other? This year have a 13 Going on 30th themed birthday party! Embrace all the amazing fashion that ’80s student Jenna Rink had, and fill your day with laughter and fantastic vibes. Think pizza, streamers, and pinatas; pure millennial heaven! Create some challenges throughout the day just like there were in the movie — it’ll help everyone get into character.
16. Friends
Are you looking for a unique 30th birthday party idea? Why not host a Friends-themed bash with 90s outfits? Get your closest buddies together and have everyone dress up as their favorite characters from the legendary show. It’ll be like stepping into another world and recreating all of your favorite moments. You could even encourage some friendly competition with a trivia game reminiscent of the show itself. What is Chandler’s job again?
17. Mean Girls
On the count of 3, raise your pink Starbucks cups for this reimagining of a modern classic: the Mean Girls-themed 30th birthday party! And don’t forget about some Regina George worthy fashion accessories: Accessories? So fetch. It certainly sounds like one epic slumber party is happening.
18. The Office
Let’s face it we are all just a Pam looking for our Jim. There’s no better (or more relatable) way to kick off a new decade than with a throwback party inspired by everyone’s favorite TV show of the 2000s. Each guest can dress up as a character they identify with. Even the Angela’s out there might crack a smile at this killer birthday bash.
Food & Drink 30th Birthday Themes
19. Donuts & Ice Cream
Know a sweet tooth who’s turning 30? Treat them to a delightful donut and ice cream-themed shindig! Show off their skills with homemade DIY donut decorating as a unique activity. Let guests get in on the fun, adding sprinkles or customizing glazes to make their own unique pastries. You can even give out super cute donut or ice cream themed party favors as thank yous for attending.
20. Cheers and Beers to 30 Years
Help a beer lover celebrate this major milestone birthday with a bang! Let’s host a beer-themed party– complete with fun games and a slogan just for the occasion. It’ll be a night the birthday boy and his friends won’t soon forget; why not take advantage of your local craft brewery’s awesome atmosphere? Toast to good drinks, great food, and plenty of laughs! A perfect spot to revel in life’s rich corners. Counting down the days until then… cheers to 30 years!
21. Champagne
Ring in the next decade with something special! Celebrate your 30th birthday with an unforgettable champagne-themed party. Crack open a bottle of bubbly, grab those flutes, and cheers to this exciting milestone. You could even host your very own wine tasting. Toast the years leading up to now and be ready for all that comes next!
Decade 30th Birthday Themes
22. 20’s/Great Gatsby
Are you feeling nostalgic? Now is your chance to step back in time and go for a 1920s themed co*cktail party! Bring all the Great Gatsby vibes, from stylish suits and flapper dresses to classic co*cktails. Go big or go home—that’s what we always say! Get creative with details that show off your theme, like strings of pearls and feather boas. A photo booth would also be a fantastic addition!
23. 70’s Hippy Party
Let’s get groovy and blast off to the past! Inspiration from the 70s is the perfect party theme for a fun time. Throw on your best psychedelic threads and delightful music from way back then playing in the air. It’ll be an experience worthy of hitting the peace sign – maybe light up an incense stick or two whilst you’re at it!
24. 80’s Neon Party
Hop in a DeLorean, and let’s go Back to the Future! Descend into an era of huge hair and fluorescent colors, the iconic theme for an unforgettable celebration. Step out with amazing leg warmers as everyone else wears their coolest bright colors – the options are practically endless as nostalgia takes over. Indulge in your wild style right from the start – this is the ’80s – bring it on!
Destination 30th Birthday Themes
25. Fiesta
Get the tequila shots and margaritas ready because it’s time to celebrate a special 30th birthday! Start off the day with bright and beautiful paper flowers lining the walls. Decorate with streamers, piñatas, and colorful straws built into a chic backdrop for photo ops! As the evening progresses, guests will be craving tacos and bursting with excitement for games like Pin the Tail on the Donkey.
26. Hawaiian/Luau
If you really want to enjoy the tropics but can’t quite afford a Hawaiian getaway, a luau themed party is the next best thing! Bringing some of the island vibes to your special day will certainly bring warmth no matter the season. With a puka shell necklace for each guest and tiki torches decorating the scenery, it’ll transport you all the way to paradise without stepping foot on that plane.
27. Country Western
Yeehaw! Whoa, a Country or Western themed 30th birthday party! Now there’s a great idea… Break out those old rugged jeans and everyone can channel their inner cowboy or cowgirl. End the night with a fitting bonfire under the stars spending quality time with close friends.
28. Tropical
It’s time to put away the 30 candles and pick up the palm fronds! A tropical-themed 30th birthday celebration awaits. Embrace vivid Island hues of turquoise, orange, and yellow. Go coconuts with pineapples, parrots, and surfboards decorating your space. Bust out the piña coladas, and don’t forget to wear bright flowy clothes to keep the tropical feel alive!
29. Spa
Throw your best friend a spa themed surprise 30th birthday party and raise the zen bar! From manis and pedis, to decor of all sorts, including rose petal bathtubs and scented candles. Not only is this a great excuse to wear your comfy robe, it’s the chance to unplug from life’s every day hustle and immerse yourself in peace and relaxation brought by a much needed spa day.
30. Paris
Throw an unforgettable Paris-themed 30th birthday party! The perfect opportunity for all the hopeless romantics out there to get carried away in the spirit of love; and even brush up on those college French lessons. Explore all the romantic possibilities this magnificent city has to offer and let your guests be transported into a world of enchantment and beauty. Bon voyage!
31. Bohemian
Let’s break out the dreamcatchers and fairy lights! A bohemian-themed 30th birthday party is as simple as it is chic! Gather your friends for a fun-filled party decorated with neutral colors, natural fabrics, and soft pretty florals.
32. Mardi Gras
Capture the spirit of the Big Easy and throw caution to the wind with a Mardi Gras-themed 30th birthday celebration! Decorate with purple, green, and gold, craft some masks to give your besties as party favors, then put on your own mask of festivity for this milestone moment.
33. Casino/Vegas
Are you looking to hit the jackpot with your birthday celebration? Then you should definitely consider throwing yourself a Las Vegas or casino themed 30th birthday party. Roulette wheel-shaped birthday cake, anyone? You could create a great playlist of classic music from Sin City, serve up scrumptious snacks such as mini tacos or sliders, and bring in friends to enjoy all the fun this idea offers.
34. Kentucky Derby
Hey y’all, it’s a Kentucky Derby kind of party at this 30th birthday shindig! Enjoy betting on horses or playing some of your favorite derby-themed party games. Don’t forget to sip that famous mint julep while you dress up your photobooth snaps with accessories fit for a race track!
35. Nautical
Ahoy, matey! Get ready for an adventurous 30th birthday celebration with a nautical theme! Set the party up for good times and excitement with decorations of anchors, fishing nets, beach balls, and deep sea creatures. Ready those sails for a voyage into a new decade that’s sure to be full of merriment and good cheer!
Check Out More Fun 30th Birthday Ideas:
- 50 Epic 30th Birthday Ideas (+5 Important Tips)
- 51 Brilliant 30th Birthday Gift Ideas
- 45 Best 30th Birthday Gifts For Him
- How to Throw the Ultimate Death To My 20s Party
