It’s my junior year in college, which means every week, if not every day, there is a new person turning 21. With my own coming up at the end of semester (I truly am ~blessed~ to have it fall on the Sunday before finals), I am planning on not spending it with a sash on, stumbling from bar to bar. Instead, here are 21 things I think I sound better than keeping a 21 shot tally:
1. Call your mom
Your birthday, especially landmark ones like your 21st, is an important day for your mom, too. She was there that day and probably still uses her arduous labor to guilt you into doing chores whenever you’re home on break.
2. Elect your DD
When you were 20, this was the thankless job you were stuck with time and time again. Now, hand it off to another plebeian.
3. Go to a champagne brunch
Brunch is a millennial’s kryptonite. Give in and finally have a mimosa or three.
4. Go to a winery
Getting the wine giggles doesn’t have to be strictly reserved for the holidays with your favorite aunt. Go to a winery or tasting room to feel like the adult you will actually be in your thirties.
5. Go on a road trip
Generally around every college there is a place locals go for a long weekend. Find that place, search for an Airbnb that can fit all your pals and spend the weekend together. It’ll look just like it’s out of a Lifetime movie.
6. Go to a concert
Maybe loop this into your road trip, and go see your favorite singer or band—some even do shout outs.
7. Order the giant drink, take your picture with it and split it with your friends
There is no reason to ingest a 50-ounce margarita (unless you are coming straight from midterms). Get a couple extra straws and pass the pitcher.
8. Toast your friends
College friends are an entirely new, entirely great group of people who have probably seen you at your worst and know more than they should. Thank them and praise them for being excellent (and tightlipped).
9. Make a drunk buddy who, for the day, will be your best friend
We all have these buddies. You probably only know their first name and maybe are friends with them on Snapchat.
10. Go see the newest chick flick with your secret flask
This could really be fun if your birthday comes out around the second Fifty Shades of Grey.
11. Get dressed up and to the fanciest restaurant in town
Oh, imagine the Instagrams! But maybe just split a bunch of appetizers—a twelve dollar cocktail and 15 dollar spin dip can substitute as a meal, as long as you have ramen waiting for you back at home.
12. Or, have a tipsy potluck
Each person brings a dish and their favorite alcohol—I believe this is the definition of nirvana.
13. Get pampered
14. Buy the one item you've had your eye on for months
Just think, the added birthday money will soften the blow of a new handbag.
15. Go to a karaoke bar
Today is the most acceptable day in your entire life to partake in this activity—don’t miss your chance.
16. Have a bonfire
I’m looking at you, October and November babies. This will be a winner all around.
17. Go to an amusement park
This doesn’t have to be Disney Land. Generally the local ones are just as good and cheaper—the spray fans they sell will probably be $15 compared to $20.
18. Go someplace new
There is probably a town not far from yours that is so picturesque it could be Stars Hollow. Go there, buy something from a boutique, eat lunch at a mom-and-pop restaurant and Instagram the whole thing.
19. Get the tattoo you've wanted forever
Just maybe make sure its something you’ll want when your 22.
20. Watch the sunrise
This will be epic for five minutes and then you can head home and sleep the day away.
