Many times when we turn 21, there are some societal expectations that may come with it. You're legal to drink alcohol in the United States! That doesn't mean you should, however. It doesn't mean you have to go bar hopping, take shots (especially not 21 of them) or get so drunk you can't even remember your own birthday party. Here's a list of things you can do on your 21st instead of being under the influence.
1. Go on a spontaneous adventure.
Grab your closest friends and see where your 21st birthday takes you. Hit tiny cafes, beautiful parks, and go shopping for new outfits on your trip! There's so much to see. You're only getting older, after all.
2. Go to a concert.
Whether you like Justin Bieber, Nikki Minaj, or ACDC, it's always a good idea to rock your brains out on your birthday! Get your dancing shoes on.
3. Write a letter to your future self or past self.
It's always a great idea to reflect on what you have made it through, and what dreams you have lying ahead of you. A sober night can mean reflecting on what's important to you, and can help you stay on track.
4. Go out to eat with your family.
Don't forget who stuck with your through your past birthdays. Maybe even pay for the meal. This is a new age and milestone in your life, and it's time to celebrate in a fun way!
5. Donate to your favorite charity.
Show selflessness by not making your 21st birthday all about you. This can get you on a positive track for your newest life year.
6. Give a firework show.
This is a wonderful way to tell the world "Hey! I'm 21 today!" It's also really fun, but don't forget your earplugs. It could get loud.
7. Go shopping.
Treat yourself for your birthday. After all, this is your day and a new chapter of your life!
8. Go to a theme park.
Ride some rollercoasters and get that adrenaline rush you are probably already experiencing from life. Eat some cotton candy and freshly squeezed lemonade, and have a blast!
9. Go hot-tubbing.
Take some time to relax in some hot water. Bring some friends with, or just enjoy some time by yourself.
10. Go to a movie.
Go to that film that just came out, the one you've been dying to see.
11. Go skating.
Whether it's ice skating or roller blading, skating is a good way to work on your elegance. It's also fun! Don't be afraid to fall down every once in awhile. If life has taught you anything by now, it's that falling down is okay.
12. Stay in.
Cuddle up with some Netflix and your favorite snacks and have the whole day to yourself. Turn your phone off and enjoy your birthday in silence and relaxation.
13. Spend time with some animals.
Whether they're your own animals or your friends', animal time is always needed. If you don't know any animals, hit up some pet stores or help out at the animal center.
14. Have a karaoke night.
Sing your heart out. Who cares if you can't get all the words right or if you sing out of tune. It's your night! Leave the judging to no one.
15. PIZZA PARTY!
You used to have them all the time in Elementary school, so why not #throwback and have a pizza party yourself?
16. Bake yourself a wicked cake.
Decorate it however you like. Maybe your mom didn't make the best cakes growing up (don't worry, my mom did) or you hate store-bought ones. The truth is, you know what you like the best.
17. Have a bonfire.
Relax out in the backyard to some campfire songs and marshmallows. Just don't forget the scary stories!
18. Get a massage.
Get pampered by some professional hands that answer to you.
19. Buy something you've always wanted.
Take a look at your online carts and pamper yourself with something you have been wishing for for a very long time. Give yourself the best birthday present!
20. Go to a game.
Baseball game, soccer, football, basketball, tennis match, wrestling match, cross-country meet. The options are endless and the hot dogs are good!
21. Above all, love yourself.
Don't forget how much you've been through in these past 21 years. Make this year full of self-love and acceptance. Thank the people who have been there for you, especially yourself. Happy Birthday, Mr./Mrs. 21!
Let me know if you accomplished anything on this list on your 21st birthday, and always remember that safety should be the first priority. It's not worth only living 21 years just because you have to live up to society's 'standards'.
