85 Unique Anniversary Ideas To Make The Day Memorable

Image: Shutterstock/ iStock

The best thing to hold onto in life is each other –

Audrey Hepburn

A wedding anniversary is a special occasion for every couple. It’s a time to relive all the good moments you have spent together and renew the vows once again. If you are looking for some cool ideas for a wedding anniversary, we have got you covered. Be it the first anniversary or the 50th, a wedding anniversary is an occasion to celebrate another year of love and togetherness. So acknowledge and appreciate your partner for sticking with you in happiness, sorrow, hard times, and good times. Here we bring you some creative wedding anniversary ideas to help you make your big day extra special.

Indoor Wedding Anniversary Ideas

Finding out the best anniversary celebration ideas for couples who want to stay at home and still have a kickass celebration can be tricky. These ideas are for the lazy ones but crazily in love with each other.

1. Take a couples quiz: It is the best way to learn something new about your partner. Celebrate your anniversary by playing a quiz and know things that are beyond likes, dislikes, tastes, and preferences.

2. Make wine: Couples who enjoy drinking together can try making wine on their anniversary. To add fun to it, make your initials as a monogram, customize the packaging and call it your own. Cheers to your love.

3. Write romantic letters: Handwritten love letters may be rare and old school but will never go out of style. Write romantic wedding anniversary letters for your partner and hide them in spots which they often see, for instance, in his shirt pocket, inside the car, in the oven, or in her handbag.

4. Digital detox: Switch off all the devices and spend the entire day with your special someone. Cuddles, snuggles and long conversations over drinks would make for an anniversary celebration beyond compare.

Image: Shutterstock

5. Short story: Write an original short story where you and your partner are the main characters. You may choose a theme that interests your partner. If he/she is an action movie fan then your partner is the superhero in your story and likewise. You may also base it on your love story.

6. Revisit the wedding memories: Cozy up with your partner and relive your big wedding day by looking at the photos and watching videos of your wedding ceremonies. Having a warm cup of coffee in customized couple mugs can make the day more memorable.

7. Prepare a gourmet lunch: Buy the ingredients and cook your own star lunch at home. The romance just brews as you both work in the kitchen. Do not forget to set the table beautifully before relishing your food. And if it is the dinner, you may have a candle-lit dinner.

8. Playstation / Video game night: If you and your partner love video games, organize an exclusive marathon video game night. Don’t forget to keep a score of who’s winning the most.

Image: IStock

9. Watch the sunset together: Sunsets are calm, relaxing and beautiful. On your anniversary, lie down in the garden or maybe your terrace and just watch the sunset together. If you are a morning person, then you are lucky as watching the sunrise together is also a great anniversary idea. Sunrise shows a remarkable transition in the sky, the passage of darkness to light.

Quick tip

A personalized pendant with a picture of a sunset you watched together etched on them would make a thoughtful anniversary gift.

10. Movie screening: Set up your own mini theater at home in the living room or the garden. Put some bedsheets, decorate with cute, fuzzy cushions and some string lights. Set up a projector and binge watch your favorite movies or TV shows together.

11. Bake an anniversary cake together: Whether or not you are fond of sweets and desserts, getting messy with flour and spending intimate moments with your partner is a very cute way of celebrating your anniversary.

12. Start a fitness regime together: Start (or restart) your exercise program together with your spouse. An anniversary is an apt occasion to resolve to stay fit and healthy together. Also, you can spend a couple of extra hours with each other every day.

Image: Shutterstock

13. Write a love journal: Start writing a love journal and mention all the important dates, facts, details about your love story, etc. Add stickers and labels to make it more exciting. This can also be called your personal life movie script. You can opt for a personalized journal to suit your preference and needs.

14. Salsa night: If you are a couple who loves dancing, then take a salsa lesson together. Also, dancing is a fun way to get intimate with your partner and groove on eclectic musical beats.

15. Take a cooking class together: This is ideal for couples who are foodies and love trying new cuisines. On your anniversary, spend time together cooking yummy dishes for each other.

16. Stargazing: Spread a mat in your backyard, place some comfy pillows on it, grab a blanket, and spend the evening under the stars. Otherwise, you can set up a mattress near your window and spend some cozy time with your partner while gazing at the starlit sky.

17. Romantic scavenger hunt: Leave little notes around the house that act as hints leading your spouse to a surprise gift you bought for them. Write romantic riddles or small poems, and make it a little challenging and exciting for your partner.

Image: Shutterstock

18. Home karaoke: You do not need to go to a karaoke bar if you have a smart TV. Play your favorite song’s karaoke version on YouTube with the running lyrics. Hold the remote like a mic and sing to your heart’s content. Pick romantic songs to set the mood for a fun and memorable evening together.

19. Shoot a video: In a goofy mood? Why not shoot a funny home video? You may develop your storyline or simply enact your favorite scene from a movie in front of your camera. Add your own improvisations and funny twists to make a scene enjoyable. Alternatively, you can recreate your wedding ceremony but with a fun twist.

20. Massage night: Dim the lights, light the candles, and treat each other to a warm, sensuous massage. This can make your anniversary truly special by setting a romantic mood. Even if romance is not your main focus, you both will enjoy a relaxing experience.

21. Indoor camping: If your anniversary falls in the monsoon and you both like camping, indoor camping can be a great idea. Build the tent together and spend a cozy and calm night together. You may also set up a romantic dinner with fairy lights and soothing music.

22. Solve a puzzle: You may solve puzzle games or arrange for a customized puzzle with pictures of you both and spend the evening working on completing the puzzle together. Grab some wine and play soft music in the background to add fun and excitement.

Image: Shutterstock

23. Read a book: If you and your spouse are avid readers, reading a book together might be an excellent way to spend your anniversary. Ensure you choose a genre that will interest you both.

24. Dance off: Play a YouTube dance tutorial and challenge each other to a dance battle. You can even look for a dance tutorial for your favorite song or try a new dance style together while having a blast and enjoying the fun of making silly mistakes.

25. Watch your wedding video: Relive the most cherished memories on your anniversary by watching your wedding video together and refreshing the memory of your special day.

After the pandemic, many couples might opt to celebrate their anniversary in the comfort of their home, with indoor ideas as simple and intimate as sharing a cozy breakfast with their partner. Bruce Stambaugh, a blogger, and a husband, shares how they had big plans for their 50th wedding anniversary but had to change them due to the pandemic. He says, “My wife and I had big plans to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. The pandemic significantly altered them. Instead of an exciting vacation-like shindig with family and friends for our golden anniversary, we will stay overnight at a local bed and breakfast. It’s the prudent thing to do (i).”

Outdoor Anniversary Ideas

If you want to get away and do something extraordinary and special on your anniversary, these ideas are just right for you.

26. Go camping: Surprise your partner by booking a tent or building one yourself at a nearby mountaintop or forest. Moonlight and stars make the perfect backdrop to have a romantic candlelight dinner at the camping site. Go an extra mile and arrange a bonfire too.

Image: IStock

27. Plan a surprise road trip: This is for a couple who loves hitting the road and exploring new places together. A road trip is an excellent idea for an anniversary bash.

28. Have fun at an amusement park: The rides in an amusement park are funny, scary and full of thrill and adventure. On your anniversary, leave all the stress behind and head to an amusement park with your loving partner. This is an unusual choice but certainly worth trying.

29. Show off your love: You are filled with joy on celebrating your years of togetherness and you want the world to know about it. Buy all the billboards in your neighborhood and announce your love for the special someone. An anniversary gift as distinct as this will be remembered for a long time.

30. Attend a concert: Buy concert tickets of your partner’s favorite artist, and give them a surprise. Go the extra mile by trying to get a personalized autograph for your sweetheart.

Image: IStock

31. Get matching tattoos: Tattoos are symbolic of love and commitment. Getting a tattoo on your partner’s name is a very sweet way to express your love and gratitude to them.

32. Get a photoshoot done: Don’t opt for plain vanilla photoshoots. Hire an expert photographer and go wild and crazy to capture the best of memories which you can cherish for a lifetime. Think of some innovative poses and ideas that will make the shoot memorable.

33. Watch a comedy show: Book tickets for a show at your local comedy club. Spend an entire evening just laughing. Watching comedy shows is a great stress buster, so laugh till your stomach hurts.

34. Take a boat ride: If you are fortunate to live in a city or town which has scenic canals and beautiful lakes, then rent a boat and stock it up with your favorite food and wine. Spend an evening cruising in the boat, singing and talking your hearts out.

Image: Shutterstock

35. Drive-in movie theater: Visit a drive-in theater and enjoy a movie together. Don’t forget to get some popcorn and chips to keep you full. Also, carry some blankets to stay snug and cozy.

36. Enjoy a hike: Plan a rejuvenating hike in a scenic location nearby. Take some time to research and find a beautiful place with lots of trees and preferably a water body that can enhance your hiking experience.

37. Go on a romantic cruise: Embark on a tranquil cruise together to a new destination. Indulge in delectable cuisine and good wine. Enjoy the sunset by the ocean, hand in hand with your beloved on your anniversary.

38. Try horseback riding: Pick a picturesque trail or countryside for horseback riding with your partner. You could try it on your anniversary together if you have not learned horseback riding. It is a great way to bond with your partner and create lovely memories.

Image: Shutterstock

39. Try wine tasting: Visit a local winery or vineyard and enjoy tasting sample wines. You can even purchase an expensive wine to celebrate your special occasion. A beautiful wine region is a great place to spend quality time together.

40. Yoga/meditation retreat: Celebrate your anniversary by relaxing at a yoga or meditation center. Discover a healthier lifestyle and unwind in a calm and refreshing environment.

41. Go on a library date: If you and your partner love reading, you may want to spend your anniversary exploring the library shelves together. Spend the day looking through books; you may also pick a book as a gift for your better half.

42. Bike riding: Rent a bicycle or scooter and explore your neighborhood. You may even plan a trip to a different location, rent a bike, and explore the city like never before. Discover new places to eat and spend some great time together.

43. Try a new restaurant or cuisine: Try a new cuisine or visit a restaurant you have not visited before. Make your anniversary remarkable by doing something you will remember for a long time.

Image: Shutterstock

Thoughtful Anniversary Ideas

Is your partner a warm and thoughtful person? These anniversary ideas prove how deep your thoughts are on making the day memorable for your partner.

44. Wishlist in the shopping app: Check your partner’s shopping app and order all the items in their wishlist. Surprise them with these gifts on the anniversary and click pictures while they unwrap the presents.

45. Make a dream come true: Your partner must have talked to you about their dreams several times. Work out a way to make at least one of their dreams come true and you are sure to leave them in tears of joy.

46. Revamp your bedroom: Go shopping, buy new bedding. Revamp your bedroom and decorate it with your partner. Add a personal touch to suit your personality.

47. Head to the spot where you first met: What better way to celebrate your anniversary than spending it at a place where you two first met? Reminiscing old memories while comparing it to your present will make you realize how strong your relationship has grown.

Quick tip

If possible, wear the same or similar clothes as on your first date. Also, order the same meal or sit at the same table. It will surely make the anniversary special.

Image: IStock

48. Bucket list activities: Make your anniversary special by ticking off some bucket list items from your list.

49. Plan a picnic: Snacks, wine, music, and some cozy blankets are all you need for an amazing picnic date. You can also carry your favorite games to have a fun time.

50. Write sweet notes: Write sweet notes for your partner and fill them up in balloons. Pile all the balloons in your bedroom and start popping them together. Read the messages together and have a laugh.

51. Get home a furry friend: If you both have been longing to get a furry friend then visit the nearest animal foster home or shelter and bring home a new family member.

Image: Shutterstock

52. Kidnap your partner: Yes, you read it right. Spend the anniversary handcuffed with each other. Do things together, even the simplest of them.

53. Do volunteer work: Engage on your special day to spread cheer in other’s life. You may also consider signing up with a good cause and committing to support them in any way possible. These small acts of kindness will bring you happiness and contentment.

54. Donate to charity: If volunteering isn’t possible, you can donate cash or other items on this special occasion. You and your partner can choose a notable NGO and decide to contribute to their cause; this can also be an annual practice on your anniversary.

55. Design unisex jewelry: To mark this important day, you may purchase or create special couple jewelry, such as a ring, bracelet, or chain. Design anything that can serve as a cherished symbol of your love and connection.

56. Create a memory book: On your anniversary, sit with the photos you have collected over the years and prepare a love scrapbook. If you do not have hard copies, select pictures, print them, and add them to your scrapbook.

Image: Shutterstock

57. Create a time capsule: On your special day, consider creating a time capsule filled with items, letters, or mementos that are significant to you as a couple. You can revisit these years later to relive your cherished memories together.

58. Make personal promises: Whether it is your first or 50th wedding anniversary, you may have several things to say to each other. So, on this day, make some promises you will keep for the rest of your life or at least for the year ahead.

59. Try geocaching: Geocaching is a location-based game that uses GPS or any other navigational device to locate containers called geocaches or caches. If you haven’t tried this, here is your chance to do something unique on your anniversary.

60. Recreate your first date: Do you remember your first date together? Was it awkward or funny? Relive your first date by visiting the same place on your anniversary. Share the inner feelings you both experienced to take a trip down memory lane that day. Alternatively, you may also explore new date ideas for couples for some interesting ways to have an exciting date.

61. Go on a virtual tour: Some apps and websites offer virtual tours (or virtual walks) of different cities in any country of your choice. Exploring a new city from the comfort of your home would be an amazing experience.

Image: Shutterstock

Adventurous Wedding Anniversary Ideas

Not for the faint-hearted. These exceptional wedding anniversary ideas are the absolute best for an adventurous couple.

62. Hot air balloon or helicopter ride: Take your partner on a hot air balloon or helicopter ride covering the city. The visuals from the top will be thrilling to watch and the intimate moments will fill you up with happiness.

63. Play hide-and-seek at Ikea or a mall: This anniversary idea is for the crazy couples. Play the game with your partner at the biggest mall or Ikea store in your city. Add a fun twist or tweak the game as per your choice.

64. Adventure sports: Perfect for couples who get bored easily. Adventure sports are an exciting means to celebrate your anniversary in an unconventional way. Gear up for a fun experience and try something totally new. Paragliding, surfing, paddle boat surfing or scuba diving are some of the best ideas to make your anniversary adventurous.

Image: IStock

65. Bathe in a waterfall: Getting soaked in love under a waterfall in the lap of nature… dreamy, isn’t it? Let this dreamy experience come true for you and your partner on this anniversary.

66. Plan a scenic trek: Plan a trek, not the usual one in a mountain, but in an unexplored place. Choose a picturesque trail and stop at regular intervals to enjoy some local delicacies.

67. Go on a cave exploration: This is an unusual way to celebrate your anniversary, but also quite interesting. Sign up for a cave exploration trip and experience a thrilling space you have not explored before.

68. Wildlife safari: Wildlife safari is a different kind of adventure. Seeing animals in their natural habitat is fascinating. If you and your spouse are fond of animals, planning a safari can be an excellent idea to spend your anniversary.

69. Visit a zoo: If a wildlife safari isn’t within your budget, why not visit a local zoo? You’ll still have the opportunity to see animals without spending too much money.

Image: Shutterstock

70. Hot spring date: A natural hot spring is an amazing way to relax your mind and body. You can opt for a couple of hot spring options for a therapeutic and enjoyable date on your anniversary.

71. Run a marathon: If a marathon coincides on your anniversary date, then go for it. It will be great to train with your partner and accomplish your goal together. Nothing feels more satisfying than completing a challenge together.

72. Mountain biking: For an adventurous couple, mountain biking could be an exciting idea to celebrate an anniversary. Embark on a journey through a picturesque trail that will rejuvenate your senses. However, take the necessary precautions and training before riding a mountain bike.

73. Indoor skydiving:  If skydiving makes you nervous, consider giving indoor skydiving a try. It provides the sensation of flying without the intimidating heights; making it a joyous and exhilarating experience.

74. White water rafting:  River rafting is another thrilling experience for couples who thrive on adventure. Remember to exercise your arm muscles and familiarize yourselves with the safety measures before signing up for this.

Image: Shutterstock

Relaxing Anniversary Ideas

If you have been having a hectic schedule for a long time, all you need for your anniversary is some time to relax and spend time with your partner. Take a break and opt for a relaxing anniversary celebration.

Get pampered in a spa: Book a couple’s massage at a fancy spa in your city. Soothe, calm and relax your mind by shutting off from the outside world.

75. Plan for your future: Anniversaries are not for brainstorming but talking and planning simple things about your future will show your commitment and a sense of responsibility towards your darling companion. It is also a way to dream together.

76. Get on to gardening: Plant your favorite fruits, flowers or veggies plants in your garden, play calming music in the background and make your anniversary special by growing and nurturing the plants and your relationship at the same time.

Image: IStock

77. Take a walk on the beach: Take a stroll holding hands and listening to the whispers of the wind. Surrender to nature and witness the mighty power of waves by spending a relaxed time on the beach.

78. Go on vacation: Book a romantic holiday and surprise your partner. Head to a romantic destination and turn the vacay mode on! This is a clichéd anniversary idea but never fails to impress.

79. Cabin retreat: Book a cozy cabin in the resorts, woods, or mountains, equipped with a fireplace and hot tub. Enjoy some quality time together without your gadgets and devices.

80. Go fishing: Fishing together in a scenic lake can be a therapeutic activity that will help you relax and unwind. Fishing also allows you to enjoy the benefits of spending time in nature.

81. Bird watching: Bird watching is a great way to spend time while exploring nature like never before. Visit a forest rich in flora and fauna and click images of birds you encounter, while enjoying their serene sounds.

82. Visit a botanical garden: If you want to create beautiful photographic memories, a botanical garden will give you a fantastic backdrop. Take your spouse to a nearby botanical garden and observe some exquisite trees and plants you have not seen before.

83. Visit an art gallery: If you and your spouse are art lovers, a trip to a museum or art gallery can be a wonderful way to spend your anniversary. Explore some creative works, and discuss your favorite piece of art while strolling around in a creative space.

Image: Shutterstock

84. Nature sound meditation: Consider marking your anniversary with this unique yet serene activity, where you visit your nearest forest only to immerse yourselves in interesting sounds. This unconventional form of meditation could turn out to be a delightful and memorable experience for you and your spouse.

85. Tea tasting: For tea lovers, visiting a tea plantation or a tea room might seem like the perfect way to spend quality time with a loved one. Explore new types of tea and try something out of the regular.

Infographic: Ideas To Make Your Wedding Anniversary Memorable

Anniversaries give you a chance to look back at the good and bad times you overcame together and appreciate each other for sticking throughout all of it. In order to make this special day even more special and memorable, we have prepared a list of ideas for you on what you can do on this day with your partner. Do give it a read and save it to your board as well.

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Illustration: Unique Anniversary Ideas To Make The Day Memorable

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Planning an anniversary party? Get inspired with these creative ideas! From decorations to food, we’ll help you make it a special day.

Was this article helpful?

Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Alicia SpomerMS

Alicia Spomer is the founder of Life Anchors Counseling, a private practice that specializes in the treatment of mental health in children, adolescents, and young adults. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor with a masters in professional counseling as well as a post master’s degree in child & adolescent disorders from Grand Canyon University.

Read full bio of Alicia Spomer

Harshita MakvanaB.Com, PG Dip

Harshita is a graduate in commerce and holds a PG Diploma in Patent and Copyrights Law from NALSAR University. She has also pursued CA and has more than three years of internship experience in auditing. Her love for travelling has taken her to various parts of the world, and writing the travelogues was what brought out her love for content writing.

Read full bio of Harshita Makvana

Shikha ThakurMBA

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

Read full bio of Shikha Thakur

Ratika PaiM.Com

Ratika holds a master's degree in commerce and a post-graduate diploma in communication and journalism from Mumbai University. She has 6 years of experience writing in various fields, such as finance, education, and lifestyle.

Read full bio of Ratika Pai