On October 11, I recently turned 21 and I had a huge question that kept popping up in front of me. Everyone I ran into asked me "What are you doing for your 21st birthday?" Coming from a religious and conservative family, I do not drink. Even if there were no restrictions on drinking, I still wouldn't participate, as I have seen the effects it has on the human mind and body. So, I went online and tried to see what other people do besides drinking to celebrate their 21st birthday. Here is a list I came up with that I found the most appealing to do:
1. Road trip
Who doesn't love a good road trip? I love to drive up-north to check out some great places. Since I have a fall birthday, it's a great time to hit the scenic route and check out all the fall colors.
2. Picnic
It's always nice to have a traditional picnic. Grab some friends, your significant other, or your family, and head to a park. Lay down a blanket and pull out some homemade sandwiches from a picnic basket. You can also grab a frisbee or a soccer ball and play a game.
3. Hiking
I love, love, LOVE hiking in the woods during the fall. Grab a few people and go hiking the trails nearby. You can get some great selfies if you can find the right place in the middle of the woods with all the trees! you never know, you might run into an animal you don't see normally!
4. Boating/kayaking
It's always nice to grab a boat or a kayak and go on an adventure.
5. Horseback riding
Horseback riding is one of my favorite things to do. Many stables provide lessons for a fee, but it is definitely worth the thrill to learn new things.
6. Shopping
What girl does not love to go shopping? Many stores give discounts or free items if it's your birthday. For example, I got free lip liner from Sephora. Check to see what stores or even restaurants who give discounts on your birthday.
7. Pizza Party
Thin Crust Veggie Pizza... 'nuff said.
8. Roller/ice skate
9. Pool party
You can always chill by the pool if it is warm enough outside, but if not, there's always indoor pool parties.
10. Parasailing
Adrenaline.
11. Bungee Jumping
Adrenaline.
12. Skydiving
Adrenaline.
13. Zip-lining
Do I need to say it again?
14. Movie
Go out to watch a movie. I decided to go out with my family to see Hotel Transylvania 2.
15. Concert
Check to see if there is a local band or concert happening near your birthday or on your birthday. It's always fun to go see someone new or listen to your favorite artist live in concert.
16. Dinner with the family
We are always busy with work, school, and personal time. Why not spend this special day with your family instead?
17. Dinner with the friends
If you don't have family around, you can always count on your friends to make this day special.
18. Dinner with both family and friends
If you can't celebrate with one and not the other, have a gathering where you have all your friends and family members there when you blow out the candles.
19. CAAAKKKEEEEE!!!!!!!!
Cake on my face. Frosting. Sugar. Too hyper. Can't sleep. Best. Birthday. Ever.
20. Get yourself a new gadget to play around with
I got myself a new smartwatch to play around with. It's something new, useful, and tons of fun to figure out how to use.
21. Binge-watch Netflix while eating your cake!
And if you don't want to do anything, you can always just watch a movie on Netflix and eat birthday cake, or you can even watch Netflix and eat cake at the end of the day to unwind after any fun activity you chose to do.
No matter how you decide to spend your birthday or who you decide to spend it with, make a wish and blow out the candles, and don't forget to just enjoy your day. If it is your birthday, I wish you the best birthday ever! Your 21st birthday only comes once so make the most of it. This day is to celebrate you.
