Image: Shutterstock
Every birthday is special. It gives you an opportunity to celebrate life and be grateful for another year on earth. If you are looking for some 22nd birthday party ideas, we’ve got you covered.
The 22nd birthday can be celebrated as a close family event or as a grand reunion with friends. However, you would want to make the celebration different from last year and try something new and creative.
To help you celebrate the big day in style, we have come up with several birthday party ideas. So, take inspiration from these ideas and throw an unforgettable party.
90+ Unique And Fun 22nd Birthday Party Ideas
Check out these exciting ideas for your 22nd birthday party, and make your celebration memorable and fun.
Things To Do At Your 22nd Birthday Party
Check out these activities to start planning your 22nd birthday party.
1. Make a birthday checklist
A birthday checklist helps you accomplish everything you desire for your birthday. It also helps cut down unnecessary costs, saves time, and allows you to enjoy your big day peacefully.
2. Play Drunk Uno
Drunk Uno is an exciting card game that comes with a little twist. As you have entered the adult phase, you may also try such games. Remember to have alcohol responsibly and never drink and drive.
3. Visit an arcade
Visiting an arcade is a fun idea and can keep everyone engaged. There are a variety of activities that nobody would get bored of.
4. Have a spa day
Do nothing on your birthday. Yes, just sit back and relax. Pampering yourselves is refreshing and rejuvenating too.
5. Try wine tasting
If you are someone who enjoys wine, try this activity on your birthday. Spend quality time with your friends at a vineyard or host a wine-tasting party for your friends and family.
6. Try a fitness class
Are you conscious of your fitness? Try a fitness class or regime that you have never tried before—Zumba, pilates, aerial yoga, boxing, the list is endless
7. Go for a shopping spree
Retail therapy is the best therapy. Agree? Nothing can beat a shopping spree. Treat yourself with clothes, accessories, shoes, and other knick-knacks from your favorite brands and stores.
8. Have a movie night
Image: IStock
Netflix and chill on your birthday with a movie marathon. You could watch your favorite movies and binge on snacks while lounging on the couch, or set up a projector and screen in your backyard to enjoy them under the stars.
9. Visit a beach
Plan a perfect getaway just for yourself or with your friends. Get tanned, play at the beach, enjoy the fresh ocean breeze, and have a relaxing birthday.
10. Peddle tavern
If you have a peddle tavern in your city and enjoy drinking, then try this bar on wheels. Enjoy drinking while driving around the beautiful city with your friends.
11. DIY Crafts
Are you and your friends craft lovers? Then try a craft activity at your birthday party. You may try simple crafts that don’t require many skills.
12. Click lots of pictures
Dedicate your birthday to just clicking lots of pictures. Take pictures of yourself, your friends, family, or your dog. You could also vlog the entire day. These are some beautiful memories that you may look back on gloomy days.
13. Decorate a cowboy hat
Well, you don’t need to become a cowboy on your 22nd birthday. Just get some cowboy hats and decorate them with accessories of your choice. Sounds fun, right?
14. Decorate light bulbs
Try this all by yourself or call your friends to join hands with you. Get some paints, paintbrushes, and light bulbs. Start painting these bulbs as per your liking or get some inspiration from Pinterest. Once they dry, place them on the bulb holder and light them up. Voila! Enjoy the beautiful lighting in your room.
Quick tip15. Rent a hotel
If you don’t want to mess up your home, you may celebrate your birthday by renting a hotel room with your closest friends. Decorate your hotel room or just have a chilled pool party.
16. Mimosa bar
Are you hosting a party that has a bar too? Try a mimosa bar by decorating the area with pre-made bar décor and add some fancy glasses filled with champagne, cocktails, or juices.
17. Go to a trampoline park
Image: Shutterstock
Jump, Jump, Jump!! Try this exciting idea on your birthday and visit a trampoline park that allows you to hire out the entire venue. You can also play lots of fun games, such as basketball and dodgeball.
18. Go hiking
Search for a park that offers hiking trails or venture out in the open. Pack some picnic snacks and get going with your friends. Hiking and camping may help you connect with nature.
19. Have a bake-off
Make your birthday party special by hosting a baking contest with your friends. Instead of buying a cake from outside, invite your buddies to see who can bake the best cake.
20. Food truck festival
If you are a food lover, celebrate your birthday by trying some new cuisines. You can visit a local food truck festival where you can treat your taste buds to a wide variety of dishes. Alternatively, if your budget allows, you can arrange for food trucks offering a variety of cuisines that your friends and family can enjoy.
21. Ice skating party
Go to your local indoor rink and have a fun time gliding on ice. Invite your friends to the rink and have fun spinning on ice. Also, make it a point to enjoy hot cocoa afterward.
22. Retro roller skating
Relive your childhood by having your 22nd birthday celebration at a retro-style roller rink. Or if you have your roller skates, invite your friends to have a roller skating in your neighborhood. Let’s see who still possesses their roller skating skills.
23. Indoor go-karting
For a thrill-seeker, speeding time driving through the curves and bends of a go-karting track can be a great birthday celebration idea. Invite your fellow adventure-loving friends and family to have an enjoyable time.
24. Bubble soccer
Playing soccer is fun and playing soccer while encased in giant inflatable bubbles only adds to the excitement. Find a nice venue, hire a bubble suit provider, and make your birthday memorable by having a bubble soccer tournament.
25. Zorb racing
Your birthday can be a great excuse to jump into a giant inflatable bubble and race your friends down the hill or float over the lake. Zorbing is a challenging activity that can make your birthday more memorable.
26. Geocaching expedition
Does a treasure hunt interest you? If yes, you may consider a geocaching treasure-hunting game for your birthday. Sign up with the geocaching app and win tons of rewards as you go about looking for hidden treasures.
27. Paintball day
If you have a large group of friends, then divide them into two groups and spend your birthday aiming shots of paint at each other. Even if you have a small group of friends, paintball can still be a great way to spend your birthday with them.
28. Laser tag
For an adrenaline pumping birthday experience, try the laser tag game. It is a budget-friendly option when you do not want to host a big party but also have a great time with your friends.
29. Outdoor laser show
If you do not have the entire day to celebrate your birthday, try going for an outdoor laser show with your friends and loved ones. These shows are a visual treat with dazzling lights and immersive music.
30. Escape room
Love solving puzzles? Treat your loved one to an escape room or a puzzle room party. You may go to your local escape room and select the game that will be challenging and fun to solve for everyone.
31. Go to a concert
If a concert is being held in your area, you may celebrate your birthday at that event. It need not be of your favorite artist, but if you have heard their music before, you can enjoy the electric atmosphere of a concert.
32. Comedy club night
Do you not have any major plans for your 22nd birthday? No problem, try visiting a comedy club and laugh your heart out. It is a good idea to entertain yourself and also relax on your birthday.
33. Pool party
If you have a private pool in your backyard, you can invite your friends for a pool party. This can be a great idea, especially if your birthday falls in the hot summer. You may also enjoy refreshing drinks and finger food.
34. Spend a day by yourself
If you are always surrounded by people, perhaps some ‘me’ time can be a unique way to spend your birthday. Plan your day and the activities you wish to do by yourself. They can be simple activities like finishing a book or exploring the neighborhood alone on your bike. Anything that makes you happy.
35. Do volunteer work
If helping others makes you happy, sign up for volunteer work at your local NGO. You can work with an animal shelter or with underprivileged children. Supporting a cause close to your heart can give you immense satisfaction and make your birthday more meaningful.
36. Dance party
Why not have a dance-off on your birthday? You can invite your friends and family to a dance party and enjoy grooving to some great music. To make it more interesting, you can have a dance-off between your friends, and who knows, you might witness an epic battle on your birthday.
37. Comedy roast night
Have your friends over for a fun-filled comedy roast night. Take turns to humorously roast one another. Ensure the jokes are lighthearted and do not offend anyone.
38. Bowling party
Bowling is a classic choice to celebrate a birthday, irrespective of the age of the birthday person. Invite your guests to a bowling alley and have a fun time challenging each other to a bowling game.
39. Water balloon fight
For a birthday that falls on a hot summer’s day, a water balloon fight can be an ideal choice to cool down. You may arrange for water guns and balloons and have fun soaking each other in water.
40. Sports party
Rent a sports facility where you and your friends can play field games, such as soccer, basketball, tug-of-war, and similar games. This is a fun way to celebrate your birthday, especially if you and your friends enjoy playing sports.
41. Go to a carnival
If there is a carnival nearby, you can invite your friends and family to enjoy it with you. You can offer to drive them to the location of the carnival. Play fun games and eat to your heart’s delight.
42. Around the town in one day
You can arrange for a private trip around your city or town. Also, you can have your pit stops at a museum or some iconic location where you can click tons of pictures. You may also stop at popular restaurants and explore cuisines you have never tried.
22nd Birthday Party Themes
Candies, popstars, anime, carnival, disco—you name it, and there’s a theme for it. No matter what your tastes are, there is a birthday party theme for everyone.
Themes For Him
Whether you are into sports or adventures that give you the adrenaline rush, these birthday party themes are sure to rock your 22nd birthday party. Why should boys have all the fun? Even girls can try these birthday party ideas.
43. Disco party
Host a disco party on your birthday. It is simple and a lot of fun too. Dress up, hire a cool DJ, and start dancing to the latest music.
44. Neon party
Sounds exciting? Yes, this neon-themed party is a lot of fun. Add black lights, neon décor and accessories, and more.
45. Rustic party
If you want to have a rustic outdoor birthday party, try wooden centerpieces, classic lights, and wildflowers. These décor elements are simple and elegant and can be handmade by you.
46. Polaroid Memory Board
This is another fun idea to make your 22nd birthday party memorable. Get a polaroid camera and let your guests click lots of pictures during the party. All these polaroids will go up on a board and stay with you forever.
47. Luau party
Image: Shutterstock
Take your guests on vacation with this tropical theme for your 22nd birthday. Dress up in Hawaiian style, get a barbeque or BBQ, and have some tropical drinks for a fun-filled birthday bash.
Point to consider48. Friends-themed party
This-Friends themed party is apt for you and your gang of friends. Include Friends-themed food and party games to make it a lot more fun and memorable. You may also play characters from the show.
49. Oscars party
Do you want to experience the celeb feel on your birthday? Try an Oscars-themed birthday party. Set a dress code and roll out the red carpet.
50. 22nd birthday fiesta
Explore your creativity with this fiesta-themed birthday party. Add fun elements of décor, a dash of colors, exciting buffet menu, and lively music.
51. Space party
Do aliens, galaxies, and spaceships interest you? Try this space-themed party to celebrate your birthday and make it unique. Rent out space suits and act as astronauts on your big day. Decorate the venue in blue, black, or green to display the essence of outer space.
52. Safari party
If nature is your calling, try this safari-themed idea for your birthday. Get jungle-themed food, decorations, and animal prints to give it a wholesome jungle feel.
53. Harry Potter party
Whether or not you are a potterhead, this birthday party theme is sure to get everyone excited. Put on a white shirt and black trousers and decorate the entire venue using Harry Potter décor elements.
54. Paint party
Bring out the artist in you. This party theme is perfect for casual painters as they get to play with colors and unleash their creativity.
55. 1950s themed party
This is a retro-themed party where you and your guests can dress up in leather jackets, enjoy simple beverages, and perform the hand jive. Play old classics and decorate your venue taking ideas from the 50s.
56. Salt lamp
Choose a salt lamp birthday party theme and improve the air quality at your house. It is also said that salt lamps prevent negative vibes. The soft light gives a warm, cozy, and homely feeling to make your guests feel extra special.
57. Superhero party
You do not have to wait for the next Avenger movie to see your favorite superheroes in one place. Set a superhero theme for your birthday party and have fun seeing Batman and Captain Ironman click pictures together.
58. Jersey party
You may be a soccer fan, while your friends may be diehard fans of basketball. But for your birthday party, sport does not matter. You can ask your guests to wear a jersey of their favorite team from any sport for the party. It will be fun to watch your buddies sporting their favorite jerseys.
59. TV show party
What would Jon Snow say to Lucifer if they ever met? You can find out with a birthday theme in which your guests have to dress as their favorite TV show. It will be fun to see various TV characters together.
60. BBQ bash
A birthday party that is pocket-friendly is a barbecue bash in your backyard. Treat your guests to smoked meats, ribs, and grilled favorites that they can enjoy with chilled beer.
61. Pirate theme party
Decorate your house treasure chests, pirate flags, and pirate hats to have a cool pirate-themed birthday party. Have pirate-themed games and food to set the right mood.
62. Star Wars theme party
Time to bring out your lightsaber and have a duel with Darth Vader or Princess Leia. The classic Star Wars-themed birthday party is a great way to recreate the magic of the popular show.
63. Party of the future
Tell your guests that the dress code for your birthday party is ‘Back to the Future’ and ask them to wear clothes they feel they might wear 50 years from now. Treat them to futuristic food such as neon or galaxy cupcakes.
64. Black and white party
For a smart theme, try the black and white party. Adorn your house with black or white decorations and even have cutlery in either black or white color. Your guests have to dress in either a full black or full white outfit.
65. James Bond party
Set up a James Bond photo booth and James Bond trivia games at your James Bond-themed birthday party. Playing James Bond music can set the atmosphere for a spy party.
66. Ranch party
When you cannot take your friends to the ranch, you get the ranch to your friends. Decorate your house to make it look like a ranch in the West. Dress up as cowboys, play country songs, and try line dancing.
67. Camping party
Celebrate your birthday by setting up a camp in your backyard or the comfort of your home. Share scary stories to create a spooky environment.
68. Man cave party
Invite your boys for a man cave party. Decorate your room or house with sports memorabilia, video game posters, and sports jerseys. Stock your place with your favorite alcoholic beverages, lots of games, and finger food.
69. Frat party
Do up your place with your fraternity’s colors and logos. Ask your friends to dress up the way they did in college. Serve food and drinks that were popular during your college days.
70. Video game party
For a fun and unique theme, try the video game theme party. In this, your guests and you dress up as video game characters. At the party, you can play the background music of these video games to set the right mood.
71. Fishing party
You do not really have to go to the nearby lake or pond to fish. All you need to do is decorate your house with fishing nets and rods aesthetically placed. And serve only fish items. You may even have a fisherman dress code for your guests.
Themes For Her
Flowers, pom-poms, glitter, costume, or makeup, which one of these themes would you pick for your birthday?
72. Boho picnic
Image: IStock
Boho picnic is the perfect theme for anyone who associates with nature. Floral garlands, wooden pieces, or any natural element can jazz up the venue.
73. Glitter-dipped cups
Spice up your party decorations without incurring huge costs. Decorate your venue using glitter-dipped cups to add glamor and make it chic.
74. Mamma Mia
Here’s another 22nd birthday party theme for those who love secret adventures. You may not go to Greece, but you can bring Greece to your party. Decorate the party venue using fun elements from the movie. Have a dress code and set the tone for the party.
75. Tissue paper pom-poms
This is both a party theme and a décor idea. Pom-poms are simple to make but give a glamorous look to the party. This is a nice idea for girls who enjoy art and craft.
76. Masquerade party
Want to experience a carnival similar to the amusement parks? Choose this theme and go wild with your imagination in terms of décor, food, and music. Dress up in a stylish outfit, mask your face, and start grooving with your guests. Let the mysteries unfold.
77. Costume party
Wait no more for Halloween to try new costumes. Turn your 22nd birthday party into a costume party and unleash your creativity with costumes, decorations, and food.
78. Rose Gold balloons
You can never miss balloons on your birthday. Try this elegant theme with rose gold balloons. These balloons are perfect for a classy, gorgeous decoration on your special day.
79. Neon sign with balloons
This theme goes well with a late-night party. It is unique and phenomenal for creative minds and sets up the right background for a photo shoot.
80. Curtain lights
If you want to give a vintage look to your party, then use curtain lights. They add glamor and a unique touch to any place.
81. Flower wall
Here’s a super easy and creative idea for a DIY photo booth. Try a wall full of flowers that sets as the perfect backdrop for your 22nd birthday celebration.
82. Donut wall
Who doesn’t enjoy sweet treats? Surprise your friends by creating a donut wall. Yes, you can try décor that is not just beautiful but yummy as well. Incorporate a donut wall on your birthday and make your friends drool.
83. Makeup party
Your girls and you can have a fun birthday trying on different types of makeup. Go dramatic with your eyes, try a bold lip color, or try a hairstyle from the ’70s. You may step out for pictures or head to a restaurant to show off your stunning makeup.
84. Color theme party
You can keep a specific color as the theme for your birthday party. For instance, you can have pink as your theme so your guests come in shades of that color. Have pink-colored food items such as beet hummus, strawberry macarons, and cotton candy to go with the theme.
85. Junk food party
Birthday is an ideal occasion to have a cheat day. Invite your friends and savor the food you usually avoid, such as pizza, burgers, chips, and all the other divine treats mankind has to offer.
86. Barbie theme party
Your 22nd birthday can be a pretext to relive your childhood by having a Barbie-themed party. Keep a dress code so your guests dress up as Barbies and enjoy strutting in high heels.
87. Toga party
Fancy a Roman atmosphere for your birthday? Try the toga party, where your guests dress in bedsheet togas. Replicate the atmosphere of ancient Rome with popular Roman games and music.
88. Alice in Wonderland
Kim Kardashian’s dramatic Thierry Mugler dress or Elizabeth Hurley’s safety-pin-secured black dress are some outrageous outfits that no one can forget. For your birthday party, ask your guests to get creative and show up in their most eye-catching outfits that everyone will remember.
89. Outrageous outfits party
Kim Kardashian’s dramatic Thierry Mugler dress or Elizabeth Hurley’s safety-pin-secured black dress are some outrageous outfits that no one can forget. For your birthday party, ask your guests to get creative and show up in their most eye-catching outfits that everyone will remember.
90. Belly dancing theme
Hire a professional belly dancing teacher for your birthday. Ask your friends to wear a Bedlah for a fun-filled belly dancing session at your birthday bash. This unique birthday theme can certainly be memorable for your guests.
91. Cannes party
Have a special Cannes theme party where you and your friends can dress in your best gowns and click amazing pictures. Hire a professional photographer who can click some memorable pictures of the party.
92. Iconic Hollywood heroines
From Audrey Hepburn to Anne Hathway, there may be at least one actress you admire for her unique sense of style. Have a Hollywood heroine birthday theme where you decorate your house like some award function with a red carpet and spotlights. Have your friends dress up as their favorite actresses.
93. Cross-dressing theme
Cross-dressing can be fun sometimes. Ask your guests to not only dress up in clothes meant for the opposite gender but also behave like them for fun. Enjoy role-playing with your best pals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s good about being 22?
At 22 years, there’s much to look forward to with your whole life ahead of you. You may have just started your career and have limitless opportunities to look forward to, and for the first time in many years, you have no school work to do. You may also enter serious relationships. Further, you may contribute to conversations among adults and hang out with friends without seeking your parents’ permission.
2. What should I expect when I turn 22?
While being 22 brings a lot of good things, it also comes with responsibilities and significant life changes. You’ll be at the epitome of your youth and may find challenges in your relationships, career, and finances. Without your parents to depend on, life’s struggles become real.
3. How can I make my 22nd birthday party special and personalized?
For a memorable 22nd birthday party, start by creating a timeline for all the planning. Personalize the party by choosing a theme, decor, and playlist that suit your personality. Consider incorporating personalized party favors, such as handmade gifts or heartfelt notes. You could also hire a photographer or create a photo booth to cherish the memories in the form of pictures.
4. How can I involve my friends and family in planning my 22nd birthday party?
Including your family and friends during the planning process can create a strong bond between you and them. Communicate openly and be ready to listen to everyone’s suggestions. Let them help you pick the theme, decor, menu, and venue. They can also lend a hand if you opt for DIY decorations and other related things. You can delegate responsibilities to all of them so they all feel a part of the process.
5. What are some ways to celebrate a 22nd birthday if I don’t want to have a party?
If you’re not big on parties, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate turning 22. Consider going on a solo date or adventure, or treat yourself to a spa day. You can also volunteer at a shelter or organization. If your budget allows, you can even have a small gathering of friends with some party games for adults, or raise donations for a cause.
6. Why is 22 a special birthday?
Every birthday is special, but in this case, turning 22 marks the jump toward adulthood. At this age, you are granted more independence from your parents, you may have a clearer understanding of your wants, desires, goals, and career aspirations. It is an age where you find yourself in a throng of opportunities for growth and self-development.
7. Is 22 the golden birthday?
Reaching the age of 22 is not considered a golden birthday. A golden birthday is when your date of birth coincides with the age you are turning.
Birthdays are always memorable, and as an adult, you get to try out a variety of exciting activities. Whether you’re at the beach, a banquet hall, or at home enjoying crafts, the only goal is to have fun. These 22nd birthday party ideas can help you have the most fun possible on your special day. Make a to-do of invitations, gifts, and decorations, choose a party theme, and plan the birthday dinner ideas and entertainment accordingly. Click lots of pictures, make videos, and enjoy yourself with your friends. If you want to experiment with drinks, ensure you do it responsibly.
Infographic: Things To Do At Your 22nd Birthday Party
Whether you want to stay at home with your friends and family or have an intimate get-together with your loved ones, have a sneak peek at these suggestions in the infographic for celebrating your 22nd birthday party the way you like. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- Plan your 22nd birthday by making a checklist, trying wine tasting, DIY crafts, decorating light bulbs and more.
- Playing indoor games such as card games, shopping, doing crafts, visiting beaches or arcades, with friends and family can be fun on birthdays.
- Themes such as disco party and neon party for him can make the day special, while for the birthday girl, you may choose theme parties such as mamma-mia or tissue paper pom-poms based on her interests.
Illustration: Unique 22nd Birthday Party Ideas To Celebrate The Fun Way
Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.
Read full bio of Melissa Jakes
Read full bio of Siddharth Kesiraju
Read full bio of Shikha Thakur
