Congrats! You're almost to legal drinking age in the United States, and people have probably let you know it 100 times prior to the big day. While you're officially old enough to gamble and go to a bar, let's not forget you've managed to live on this earth for 7,665 days — an accomplishment in and of itself.
A person's 21st birthday is usually known for the day you can legally drink, but for those of us who aren't really into the big drinking scene, here are 21 things you can do on the big day that's not going to a bar and drinking (but if you do, that's totally cool too). It's your birthday, you do you!
1. Go to a concert
GiphyIt's your birthday and you still want to go out? What better way of going out and having a good time than going to a concert? You're getting the same fun experience, but you're also seeing a cool band while you're at it so it's a win-win situation for all parties involved.
2. Binge-watch your latest Netflix obsession
Okay, we do this anyways, but why not do it on your 21st birthday as well?!?! Plus, who wouldn't want to spend their night watching the nightmares Dean and Sam Winchester get themselves into for hours on end?
3. Go on a shopping spree
Grab your best gal-pal and hit your local mall for some birthday retail therapy. Not only are you spending time with one of your best friends on your birthday, you're also buying yourself some gifts. It's the ultimate treat yo' self-moment for your 21st birthday.
4. Casino, anyone?
You might be drinking age in the United States, but you're also casino going age. Obviously, don't spend all of your money at those blackjack tables, but it's still a new experience and honestly, isn't that what this birthday of firsts is all about?
5. Have a sleepover
Just because you're 21 doesn't mean you and your bestie can't have a rad birthday sleepover that would rival one you did when you were 10. Grab some pizza and talk about all those annoying boys on all of those dating apps you're on.
6. Go on a date
Speaking of annoying boys on all of those dating apps you're on, why not go on a date with someone?! There are so many things to do on a date, which could be a post in and of itself, so why not go on one for your birthday?
7. Take new pictures for the 'gram
It's your birthday, you might as well get a photographer (aka a willing friend) and snap some new pictures for your Instagram feed. Get some new clothes, do your makeup, and check out some DIY photo hacks to try out.
8. Get a tattoo
It's a big day, why not really celebrate and get that tattoo you've been dying to get for years but are just too afraid to get.
9. Hang out with friends
Just because you aren't planning on drinking for the big day, that doesn't mean you have to go solo for your birthday. Get your friends (your squad? I'm old now, I don't know the terms the kids these days use) and have some fun.
10. Go to a sporting event
The actual sporting event can vary on when your birthday actually is, but going to a sporting event can be a pretty fun way to spend your day...especially if it's on your birthday.
11. Treat yo' self
As Tom and Donna would say, treat yo' self. Get that shirt you've been eyeing, go to the spa, color your hair, or eat your entire cake...your birthday only comes around once a year, why not make it memorable?
12. Take a road trip
Road trips are the best, so why not pick a destination and spend the day in a car blasting your favorite music and exploring a new part of the world?
13. Write for your blog, a publication, etc.
Not sure what you want to do for your 21st birthday, why not a write a post about things to do for your 21st birthday to get some ideas (the writer of this article totally isn't doing that right now). Not only are you adding to your published works, you're also getting some good ideas.
14. Go out to eat, or better yet, cook something
Whether you're going to a restaurant or cooking for yourself at home, it can be a great thing to do for your special day...especially if you do that with the people you love.
15. Movie marathon
You've got 24 hours on your birthday, you might as well pop in your favorite movies and spend your day in bed watching them... Might I suggest the "Back To The Future" trilogy, you won't regret it.
16. Read that book you've been wanting to read but haven't
Hey, it's your birthday, why not get around to reading that's book collecting dust on your bookshelf?
17. Go on a hike
Go outside, scary, I know, but really. Going on hikes are a fantastic way to clear your mind and explore the world at the same time!
18. Try something new
Giphy21 is full of new experiences, so why not start it off by trying something you've never done before? See if there's a sword fight happening in the area or take a belly dancing class. Get out of your comfort zone. You never know what new activities you might like to do!
19. Work
I mean, it might not be the most fun thing in the world to actually do, but why not?! Get some extra cash, especially if your birthday is in the middle of the week, and plan for a fun weekend!
20. Go to an arcade, amusement park, etc.
Just because you're 21, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the things you liked when you were younger! Go to an arcade and play some games, get on a roller coaster, do all thing things!
21. Have fun!
Okay...this isn't actually a thing to do, but it's important that you spend the day actually have a good time! This is your special day and if you aren't enjoying it with what you're doing, you should try to find something better to do! It's all about having fun and if that means sitting at home in a face mask watching "Riverdale" by yourself, that's just the thing to do!
Your 21st birthday is a milestone, and hopefully, you'll have the best day ever....even if that doesn't include drinking! Have some new adventures, it's a big year.
