Ideas for celebrating your 60th birthday

Hitting 60 is certainly a milestone, so it's only right that it should be celebrated in style. Whether you're looking for ideas for a family member, friend, neighbour or even yourself, we've selected our 12 favourite 60th birthday ideas, from the classic to the unusual to downright adrenaline-inducing. And if you're looking for something more low-key, don't worry - we've got you covered here too.  

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1. Barn dance

"I had a barn dance to celebrate my 60th and loved it!"

Can we get a 'yee-haw'? If you've ever been to a barn dance, you'll know just how fun they can be, especially for those who love to dance their socks off - grandchildren included.

This 60th birthday idea is a great way for the whole family to get together and it might just bring back fond memories of years gone by. Go the extra mile and play dress-up, which will no doubt make for a raucous celebration.

2. Get a tattoo

"I have one tattoo, done last year for my birthday - no regrets at all!"

Go off-piste this year and book yourself an appointment at a tattoo parlour to celebrate! This might be one of the more unusual 60th birthday ideas, but if you've fancied getting inked for years, but haven't quite plucked up the courage, now could be the time.

Be sure to do your research and look at a variety of tattoo artists before you settle on a favourite. You will, most likely, also need to book in advance depending on how popular they are. 

3. Get married or renew your wedding vows

If romance is what you're after, consider the ultimate 60th birthday celebration; getting hitched! Or, if you're already married, renew your wedding vows instead.

Whether you want to relive the happy occasion all over again or reaffirm your commitment to one another, this significant milestone (perhaps coupled with an anniversary) could be the ideal opportunity. Go all out or go simple. It's entirely up to you!

4. Overnight trip or weekend getaway

"We celebrated my husband's 60th birthday with a trip to London, an overnight stay and a visit to the theatre to see A Midsummer Night's Dream. We also visited the V&A museum while we were there. He enjoyed the whole thing."

Money can't buy happiness, as they say, but it can certainly buy a lovely overnight or weekend trip that will be remembered for years to come. Who doesn't love a staycation? Be it the Big Smoke, camping or a trip to somewhere more remote, a mini adventure might just be the ideal way to celebrate.

For one gransnetter, family time with a bit of luxury was just what the doctor ordered: "Our boys clubbed together and booked a vintage manor house for my husband and myself plus our family. We will never forget it."

Pack a trusty raincoat for good measure.

5. A classic birthday party

"I must admit I like a party and the family obliged in a big way for my 60th. Old friends and colleagues also came and, of course, all five grandchildren. We had a great afternoon."

Nothing quite beats a classic birthday party, especially when you can get the creative juices flowing. Are you the type to enjoy a lavish cocktail party or perhaps a themed affair, like fancy dress or a masquerade ball? 

The great thing about a party is that it can take any shape or size, which means that, while it might not be the cheapest way to celebrate a 60th birthday (and will certainly take some organising), it can be as elaborate as you like.

6. Tandem skydive

"I did a tandem skydive from 13,000ft for my birthday!"

Get the adrenaline pumping with an adventurous birthday treat. If a skydive has been on your bucket list for as long as you can remember, there is no better time than a milestone birthday to throw yourself (quite literally) outside of your comfort zone.

If you need extra support, why not get a friend or family member involved or participate in a charity skydive?

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7. One-to-one time or a small family gathering

"I would like a one-to-one with each of my grandchildren for my birthday, so that we can get to know each other better."

Looking for a more laid back approach? Opt for a small family gathering - with added tea and cake, of course - or spend one-to-one time with loved ones, particularly children or grandchildren.  

Contact family members to arrange a date and perhaps ask them to bring something sweet for the occasion. 

8. Cruise

"I took myself on a cruise for my 60th!"

What better way to celebrate than by going on the adventure of a lifetime? Treat yourself or a loved one to a Meditteranean cruise, a Rhine river voyage or even a trip around the Caribbean. When it comes to cruise holidays, the world really is your oyster. And they are perfect for solo travellers too!

9. A garden party, BBQ or picnic

"On my mother's 60th birthday, we held an outdoor event at my house, as she does not like fuss or being the centre of attention. It was a gathering of people she was fond of and we shared food and refreshments. There was also a bit of background music, allowing her to chat easily to everyone."

Dust off that old picnic basket or revive the barbecue and celebrate with great food and great company. Weather permitting, of course. When it comes to outdoor parties, the options are endless. Choose a variety of mouth-watering barbecue recipes to try on the grill or pack a whole host of tasty treats into your picnic hamper for a small party in the park with family or friends.

10. Shopping trip

Relax and unwind on your special day with a spot of retail therapy, perhaps with lunch at your favourite café. Not only is it a good way to spend quality time with a family member or close friend, but it might just be the day out you needed.

11. Pilates classes

You didn't expect this to be on our list, did you? Well, according to the Telegraph, treating someone to a set of Pilates classes is a much more beneficial 60th birthday surprise than, say, a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers. Not only will they be able to try a new form of exercise, something that could well become a hobby, but it will hopefully make them feel happier and more energised too.

12. Dinner at a restaurant with family or friends

"I booked a table at a local restaurant for lunch and then we went home for champagne. My husband had never celebrated a birthday until we were married and had a family."

Everyone loves to be wined and dined, and while this might be one of the less creative ways to spend a 60th birthday, it's perfect for enjoying the company of family and friends, especially if you don't see them as often as you'd like to. 

If you're treating someone to a special meal, either surprise them with somewhere they've never been to before or book a table at their favourite local restaurant. Either way, they're sure to love it.

Other things you might like:

60th birthday gifts to suit your budget

Discounts for over 60s

Images: Shutterstock