A birthday party is a celebration of the anniversary of the birth of the person who is being honored. Birthday parties are a feature of many cultures.

In Western cultures, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, birthday parties are often accompanied by colorful decorations, such as balloons and streamers. In these cultures, a birthday cake is usually served with lit candles that are to be blown out after a “birthday wish” has been made. The person being honored will be given the first piece of cake. While the birthday cake is being brought to the table, the song Happy Birthday to You is sung by the guests.
A birthday cake with lit novelty candles.
A child’s birthday party may be held at his/her home or in a public place. Soft drinks and both sweet and savory foods are usually served. Birthday parties for children often feature entertainment, party games, and goody bags. Themed birthday parties are increasingly popular, as plates, streamers, napkins, and piñatas are being sold with themes taken from kids’ games, books, television shows, movies, and websites.
Adults’ birthday parties in Western cultures are sometimes held in restaurants, bars, or nightclubs. In some cultures, guests are expected to bring a gift for the honored person.






