How would you spend a birthday alone?

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TajMansor@reddit

Treat urself to a brass and something decent to eat.

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EcoloG1@reddit

Mate, indulge. I'm terrible at birthdays and usually don't end up celebrating at all because I don't like the pressure of celebrating, if that makes sense. I like to spend the day allowing myself to do exactly what I want. Buy the spenny food you're craving, buy those new bedsheets, take yourself to the cinema. Treat yourself and make it nice for yourself

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Amazing-Heron-105@reddit

Off topic but anyone got some suggestions for decent bed sheets that don't cost a fortune? I looked on Amazon but it all seemed a bit naff to me. I used to have a full cotton set and it was so much nicer to whatever I've got atm.

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WerewolfAble1440@reddit

I got a super-high thread count set off of TK Maxx a couple a years ago. Cost about 30 quid I think. First ever fancy/expensive bed sheets I’d ever brought and I’ve never looked back. Quality bed sheets and pillow cases make a huge difference to your comfort and sleep. So I highly recommend treating yourself, it pays for itself in happiness.

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Amazing-Heron-105@reddit

That's a good shout mate. I just looked online and they are very affordable. Cheers. With buying a bit cheap I worry they'd wear quickly. How's yours doing?

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WerewolfAble1440@reddit

mine are doing brilliantly but ive got four sets in rotation so they'll last a fair while. no problems at all except a little bit of fading in the wash. look for extra long staple cotton (often Egyptian) or cotton sateen in the 400-600 thread count or higher range and you can't go wrong, its like a good kitchen knife, an investment that'll improve your life.

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I-live-in-room-101@reddit

M&S

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Amazing-Heron-105@reddit

What sorta money we looking at?

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I-live-in-room-101@reddit

There’s a wide range from spenny to not. These are good https://www.marksandspencer.com/egyptian-cotton-230-thread-count-fitted-sheet/p/hbp61215779?intid=mobile_app_pdp_share

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Amazing-Heron-105@reddit

Cheers this looks good 👍

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EcoloG1@reddit

Habitat? Not sure on the quality these days though. Ikea do some decent ones but less choice. And there's always Dunelm

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Imperial_Squid@reddit

> take yourself to the cinema This one is underrated, people think going to the cinema is a necessarily social activity, but it doesn't need to be. Plenty of normally social things are also just as good if you don't go with anyone!

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themissing10mm@reddit

This is what I do. Since COVID when I had to spend my birthday alone and realising how much I actually preferred the lack of celebration, now I spend the day doing exactly what I want to.

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StormRider21@reddit

I spent my 19th alone, after being used to spending all my birthdays at home. I ended up getting some of my favourite foods and just chilling for the day, doing nothing important.

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BlatantArtifice@reddit

My depression/medical anxiety combo made me incredible at talking myself out of things that I'd enjoy because it felt like a risk or something. Whatever sounds fun, I hope you find the time and energy to take part and enjoy yourself, whether it's a pub or treating yourself to a restaurant or something 💖

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ThunderChild247@reddit

Had plenty of those kinds of birthdays. Here’s what I do. Order yourself 1/2 things that you really want, pick the gift wrap option (or wrap them yourself if you’ll have time). Book yourself a spa day or a massage or something like that. Ideally mid-morning. On the day, swing by somewhere open 24/7 and get breakfast. After the spa/massage, go out somewhere for lunch. Get home well rested, pampered and well fed. Put a favourite movie on, have some snacks if you’re peckish and open your presents.

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Hugh_Jorgan2474@reddit

Sounds great but it's pretty hard to fit that all in around my office job.

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sideone@reddit

Are you not allowed to book time off?

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Hugh_Jorgan2474@reddit

I could but why would I want to book a random day in the middle of the week off?

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sideone@reddit

Random days off mid week are the best

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TryTrynTryAgain@reddit

Because it’s your birthday and you have a spa and massage planned

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TehDragonGuy@reddit

I think this would just make me more depressed knowing I had to do this for myself and do it all alone.

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caniuserealname@reddit

Getting a cooked breakfast and spa day seem fine, but i agree, theres something that feels deeply depressing about ordering yourself gift wrapped presents to open on your birthday.

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ThunderChild247@reddit

That’s what I thought too before I just did it. The reality is if your options are so fun stuff alone or do nothing alone, it’s still better doing all this for yourself.

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romulus_remus420@reddit

100% its much more depressing just being sat at home sad about having a lonely birthday than it is making a plan thats just 100% what you want to do. I have learned to love solo birthdays: I take myself off to a national trust park or a big museum and take as long as I want to (or not) looking at things and taking pictures, I go to a bougie bakery before and make myself a really fit sandwich with fillings I’d normally never l’d let myself buy (like m&s french butter 🥵), maybe take a couple of alcohol free beers & a spliff and just really make the most of it. I get a takeaway when I’m home and watch a film that I’ve wanted to see, spend as long as I like playing games or reading. Doing this also made it a bit easier to just take myself off for a nice day out/ treat myself when I needed to throughout the year.

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Bertie1983@reddit

This sounds nice. I would love a day like this!

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Tom_FooIery@reddit

Then have one, it doesn’t even have to be your birthday, just exercise your free will and do it!

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Patient_Panic_5704@reddit

Throw in some quality wine 🍷 and it sounds top drawer.

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terryjuicelawson@reddit

I would have a wholesome day out personally. Trip to a national park, plan a hike, visit to a city on my list, something like that. Couple of drinks to finish the day in a nice beer garden, get home and put a film on and crack open a bottle of wine. Fancy doing that all tomorrow tbh.

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BLightyear67@reddit

I wouldn't mind that. I would buy myself a couple of really nice things and go out for a cracking meal.

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sleepyprojectionist@reddit

I turn 42 this week. My mates are usually busy with kids and having actual lives on weekends, so I don’t have any plans. I’m also skint, so it might just be a walk in the country and maybe a cheap pub lunch on my way home.

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amanset@reddit

Little getaway somewhere. See where is cheap using Google Flights and just get away.

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monkey_kaleidoscope@reddit

I really wish I did this more when I was single.

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Pantomimehorse1981@reddit

Oh I hear that. Oh to have the agency to just got fuck it I’m going to Italy for the weekend. Don’t get me wrong I can still go but now it’s shall we go in two months ?

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monkey_kaleidoscope@reddit

In 2 months? I guess you don’t have kids. For me it’s like next year + loads of saving and hoping nothing else crops up that just decimates said savings

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Pantomimehorse1981@reddit

Haha I don’t but have other responsibilities and / wife’s job means we can’t just do a fuck it let’s go like I once would

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MojoMomma76@reddit

I am married (very happily so) and still do it once a year. Wroclaw this year was amazing, Madrid last, Vilnius the year before were all fantastic. I just take a Uniqlo crescent bag so no carry on or check in bags, spend the first night having a fab dinner, a full day to walk around and see all the sights, another nice dinner, then a morning to mop up what I didn’t see the day before and fly home. It’s great for medium sized cities, I’ve seen a lot of nice places in Europe on this basis and I never feel lonely when I’m discovering new corners of the world.

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fickle_tartan@reddit

This was going to be my suggestion, I've done a few birthdays away like this and had a great time.

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Opposite_Art5474@reddit

This

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chocolate_gal_001@reddit

I have spent many birthdays by myself. Last year, I went to the Natural History museum, then went clothes shopping. Had a take away and cake in the evening. Do the things you enjoy the most and don't forget to have cake!

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1234onions@reddit

I turn 31 this Sunday and I am in the same boat friend-wise. I'm off sick from work with a fractured spine so I cant do much. I plan on ordering a huge takeaway and popping on a film I haven't seen yet. Im a recovering alcoholic, so while I would love to have a drink I'm going to eat myself silly instead. Happy birthday! I hope you enjoy yourself xx

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JazzyJ967@reddit

My birthday is in the later half of the year, so I’d go to a restaurant of my choosing, I always go to an arcade for my birthday as I love racing games & shooting games and sometimes I treat myself with a massage. VR experiences are usually high on my list. Not to mention, I subscribe to lots of loyalty card newsletters so I can grab as many birthday freebies as possible.

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Lost-Actuary-2395@reddit

Get yourself a puppy

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dreadnought1057@reddit

I once spent christmas alone in Asia. I had a mcdonalds to cheer myself up. It didn't work. The bar next door to the mcdonalds did cheer me up however. I met lots of people to talk to there.

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Temp_Brain@reddit

Just had mine alone last week, went on a holiday by myself, got some nice breakfast, went to the beach, read my book, then took myself to a nice place for dinner where I told them it’s my birthday and asked for a candle (ok maybe the last part is sad .. do not recommend, but the rest was amazing).

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GetCapeFly@reddit

Buy yourself a present that you really want and wrap it up to open, plan a breakfast of your favourite foods, go to a place you’ve already waned to visit (park, book store, new food place) or try something new you’ve always wanted to. Take a camera and document the experience but make an effort to print the photos. Get yourself flowers (guys like them too) and favourite snacks. Spoil yourself! Make some goals for the next year.

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DES_EFX@reddit

At least 3 wanks

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premium_transmission@reddit

Instead of 3 standard wanks, I would be aiming for one long luxury wank as a treat.

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Chickenhugga@reddit

When I was in my 20d I’d disappear for a few days over my birthday. Head to a city and walk around. Go to the cinema, shop, eat pastries. That way I didn’t get empty “happy birthday”s from people I don’t give a shit about

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Limbix@reddit

This is my favourite thing to do. I live in London, and one of my favourite birthdays was spent wandering round Portobello Road Market, stopping at a deli on my way home for posh snackage, and having a living room picnic with a good film. I do love a good rummagy browsy market.

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Tranquillian@reddit

Always spend my birthday alone and sometimes I forgot it’s my birthday. Nothing is done, I don’t see the point or have the inclination, just another regular day for me

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RonnieBobs@reddit

My birthday is this week and I’m having a solo trip to London. I’m going to have a lazy morning getting dressed up. In the afternoon I’m going for afternoon tea. Then in the evening I’m going to the theatre. Can’t wait

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Sugarlips_80@reddit

I spend most birthdays alone. I take the day off work, have a lazy morning (maybe a morning walk if the weather is okay - winter birthday), nice breakfast (usually do a pre birthday shop in m&s), Plan a nice meal for the evening and make sure i have cake. I sometimes buy myself a gift - something nice I havr wanted but couldn't justify buying just because. I make it mine and take the power back from the times I wanted it to be special with others but it wasn't

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SaysPooh@reddit

It’s never alone when I have my cat. It’s a good day, which I prepare for and don’t just let happen. Usually breakfast out, mooch around the shops and buy myself something (usually from a charity shop). Home to do something nice around the house- cleaning, small decorating project. Then it’s time for a glass of, nibbles and a chat to the cat before another glass of , dinner and a good drama or film on tv

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octropos@reddit

Staycation. Book a hotel room in your closest city or big town. Chill. Veg out. Watch TV. Game. Drink. It's the best.

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Severus_1987@reddit

Coke and hookers no hesitation

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weareblades@reddit

Is coke mandatory or can I just get the hookers?

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Dependent_One6034@reddit

Some of the happiest people I know play this game, They live alone, Once a month they treat themselves. Fair.

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Pocket_Aces1@reddit

Like any other day tbh. I don't care much for a bday now. Maybe I'll "treat" myself with a purchase of something or other if I've got the cash spare. Ik I'm a boring sod

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weareblades@reddit

Same, as a kid birthdays were awesome, but now it's just a day.

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ShinyHeadedCook@reddit

I had my 40th birthday in the strict lockdown. I worked out, went for a walk, played some xbox, had a wank, ordered a huge Chinese! It was a good day!

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weareblades@reddit

This is the answer.

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Electrical_Tale_2621@reddit

Please can you come back to this thread on the day so we can all wish you a happy birthday.

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the_Athereon@reddit

Drinking and watching the countdown to the new year. My Birthday is December 31st.

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Tattycakes@reddit

Chocolate and book, personally

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tomun@reddit

Basically just behave like it's not your Birthday. It's just a day, do whatever you like.

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Unhappy-Tomatillo204@reddit

TREAT. YOUR. SELF.

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ItsDominare@reddit

> I've drifted apart from my college/uni mates over the years People often make these sorts of comments, but what it actually means is neither party put any actual effort into maintaining the friendship. When you're in education with people you see them every day automatically. Once you're finished with all that you actually have to make plans with people and stick to them, or you end up a billy no mates.

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Agreeable_Cherry111@reddit

I’m also turning 31 in 3 days and will be spending it alone! I’ve booked a night at a hotel for myself, it’s an experience/activity place and been on my bucket list for so long. I usually try and go abroad on holiday the week of my birthday but I’ve been unemployed the last two years so haven’t been able to do this. Last year I booked a two night spa hotel and it was nice.

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Strange_Aeons86@reddit

I've spend a couple of birthdays alone. I took myself out early for a nice lunch and took a book with me. After that I walked around for a bit and bought myself something. The I went home, had a cup of tea, and played on the PlayStation all afternoon (something I only get time to do maybe twice a year). I would have gone to the cinema, but there was nothing good on at the time. It was great.

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Acceptable_Gear_3097@reddit

Book a holiday on the cheap and jjust go stay withon your budget in somewhere you've never been - hostels if money's tight are mostly not bad, as long as you look them up before.

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wildeaboutoscar@reddit

Do the things that make you happy. I have a spa day and get my favourite ice cream from an ice cream parlour near me. I also do a special birthday shop at Waitrose (I only go in there for my birthday and Christmas) and get all the things I try to abstain from the rest of the time. I also go into Waterstones and buy myself a book and sit in the sun and read. I usually end up having dinner and drinks with family in the evening, but last year I went to a fancy restaurant by myself as I met family the day before. My birthday is coming up this week and that's essentially my plans. It's usually a good time. Hope you have a great day OP!

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darybrain@reddit

Last time I went to an M&S Food near my local train station on the way home and bought some red wine and a lemon muffin, asked if they sold any candles, told them it was my birthday when they asked why, and then listened to the two staff members and three other customers sing me happy birthday. One of the other customers insisted I needed to eat more than just the muffin so the bought me a small charcuterie and cheese platter and his missus gave me a forehead kiss even though they were younger than me. It was weird but nice. Red wine makes me hide in a corner and hug the bottle so I made sure I only drank it when I got home.

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thing_on_a_spring@reddit

Just another day to me. I'd do whatever I feel like I need If that means sleeping in till 3pm then lazing around in bed playing xbox, so be it. Or go drive out into nature and have a walk, or to a cinema, or dine alone in a restuarant. Whatever I wouldn't do any of this solely because it happens to be my birthday though

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5W4Y@reddit

Funnily enough that’s me today except i turned 26. Me, the dog and the cat had a great day together. Walked dog, went out for lunch alone and had a spritz with my food, wandered around couple of shops and got a coffee and cake, walked dog, had a bath, watched a couple of movies and ordered pizza, walked dog, bed/ reddit.

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autofill-name@reddit

Posh barber and nice lunch.

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Tough-Fee-1197@reddit

OMG, I fucking love a solo birthday. There's nothing better than taking yourself on a date. Be sure to treat y'self like the hot piece of ass you are — best threads, smelling real nice, swanky eatery, bottle of wine (that you don't have to share), and an Uber Luxe home. The icing on the (birthday) cake? You won't judge you if you put out. Here's to you, sweetcheeks. Have a bloody belter 🎂

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Buck_Slamchest@reddit

I used to do it all the time and I'd spend the afternoon in my happy place - the cinema.

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BiscuitKid87@reddit

Cuppa tea & a box of Cherry Bakewell 🙌🏼 always does the job

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Competitive-Golf7821@reddit

For one whole day, I would spoil myself insane to absolutely anything that I want! In terms of experiences/food/gifts Whatever I've wanted to do. But just one day.

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Tuna_Flake@reddit

By reminding myself, it’s just another day. I don’t celebrate it.

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bahumat42@reddit

Go on a mini adventure. Go to a place and do a thing. And be in the moment. Maybe thats going to alton towers. Or one of the capital cities, or a castle, or lands end/john o groats. Or if you have the cash go for a mini break as mentioned elsewhere in this thread. Pamper your self a little with things you like and just make it all about you.

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rapafon@reddit

You just told us your shoe size; are you perchance a card-carrying member of the dull mens group?

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Doughnut2220@reddit

No because he didn't mention his banana.

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rapafon@reddit

So not only is he alone and dull, he's also a failure.

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OneSufficientFace@reddit

Id get battered and bash xbox and films all day. Plenty of snacks. Take away for tea. Bottle of whisky... Loving life

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Sezyluv85@reddit

Doing whatever the hell I wanted. Treat myself to whatever the hell I wanted. That could be nothing and I'd be happy!

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Background-Factor817@reddit

My man. TREAT YO-SELF.

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ATSOAS87@reddit

I spent my 30th alone. It was great

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Zorolord@reddit

I wished I did, I wasnt going to celebrate it then i decided last minute invite a group of people who was wrongly assumed were my friends (none of them speak to me anymore) its my birthday next month and I have zero plans to celebrate it with or without people.

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opopkl@reddit

I'd love to spend Christmas Day alone. My family get so wound up by the dinner and the presents, it's impossible to enjoy.

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No-Extension-2378@reddit

Highly recommend it. My best Christmas dinner was a plate of Yorkshire puddings each containing a pig in blanket, dollop of apple sauce & chunk of brie. Eaten at my desk while I played games, safe in the knowledge that my family would be being mildly racist and my partner's family would be being controlling and critical. Bliss.

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Ok-Faithlessness-1@reddit

I’d go camping or get a vacation rental in the woods/forest/in nature and do some mushrooms

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IncompleteObjects@reddit

Find the nearest theme park and hit the rides, taking advantage of the single rider queues.

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LocationOk399@reddit

A weekend away to a nice European city.

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jennyhof@reddit

Many of mine have actually accidentally been spent alone in a cell either in prison or a police station and I have no real family or friends anyway

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followtheheronhome@reddit

Last birthday I spent totally alone I went to various museums in London then had a nice pizza and cocktail and got the train home.

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charcharking_555@reddit

Firstly may I wish you a happy birthday in advance. This is a fabulous day to do you. So get up, showered and dressed… first tick. Then come out of your home, go to the cafe for a nice birthday breakfast, bring a paper and smile kick back in your seat and enjoy. Leave a tip for the cafe and spread some joy. Next pick something you like doing perhaps out of your interest… could be anything at all. Art, music, walks in nature, the cinema, bingo anything that you like and do it. Go catch that film just because you can, go on a train to the seaside if you want. Get on a bus somewhere you’ve never been before decide do window shop for premises if you were to live there! Occupy your time safe in your own skin, trying something to get you motivated. This year you have made a decision no depression, there is a whole world out there. Go on the app Eventbrite, find a freebie day somewhere. Meet up app too! You have the privilege of having a birthday and a body that works, lungs that breathe. You got this, feel the fear and do it anyway… who knows who you could meet on your travels! X

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Ok-Mama-5933@reddit

Solo-travel! To somewhere you’ve never been before.

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Holiday-Window7949@reddit

Lots of people here are going more towards the splurge route, but as someone who doesn't earn much, here's my take; The last 3 years, every birthday I've had has been alone, with two of them involving an outing at an unspecified time near-ish to the date with two other people The one I spent totally alone was very surreal, I thought it'd make me really sad. It didn't make me happy, but it actually wasn't as depressing as I imagined. It almost took the pressure off I a sense, that I didn't have to put on a smile and act like it's the best day ever I took myself to the pub, wearing a silly happy birthday badge I had received in a card, and bought myself a few drinks. A few people said happy birthday, could people chatted with me for a bit, and then I went home and just chilled like any other day. It wasn't "special", but it was a nice day and for me that was totally fine It really just depends on what you WANT it to be. Do you want it to be a special splurge day where you treat and pamper yourself? Or maybe a more relaxed time where you just enjoy yourself without needing to "overspend" to do so?

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pixiepython@reddit

I've just had a quick look at your profile, and looks like you're a Warhammer fan! How far are you from Warhammer world? Could you arrange a little day trip, check out the exhibition centre? It's pretty cool! Plus there's a lot of other stuff to do in Nottingham 😊

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glittertwunt@reddit

I spent my 38th birthday alone so I went to a random cheap concert going on locally and it was brilliant fun! I didn't mention my birthday but I just had a great dance and some random chats and became a big fan of the act. Was a great birthday in the end. Do something random but within the realm of your known likes

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Willing_Coconut4364@reddit

I always spend my alone. Go try a new hobby. Sailing. Climbing. Something where you can meet more people.

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Twat_Features@reddit

Been there. Go for a pint mate.

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-Intrepid-Path-@reddit

get paid to get another exotic disease?

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Acceptable-Sentence@reddit

Pay to catch herpes

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IOnlyUpvoteBadPuns@reddit

It's his birthday, he wants do do something different to usual.

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garlicandherbsauce@reddit

i would possibly look at a short city break, maybe somewhere you’ve never been before, or even to revisit a favourite place?

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PMcD93@reddit

I'm currently planning on spending birthday 32 wild camping in Snowdonia, alone and in the most desolate part of the park I can find. Birthday 31 was spent watching mum slowly die of cancer Birthday 30 was spent traveling in Northern Ireland. Admittedly birthday 30 backwards I had the tiny circle of friends around for a BBQ near my birthday, but not on it.

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Glum_Carob2658@reddit

Unfortunately, the same thing happened to me… only real difference is I’m a female yet regardless of out genders I feel the most satisfying thing to do by default just happens to be one of those non gender specific Birthday Activities/Presents… BOOK YOURSELF ON A CRUISE, INCLUDE EXCURSIONS & THE UNLIMITED ALCOHOLIC & NONALCOHOLIC DRINK PACKAGE (which includes all types of drinks from SMOOTHIES to SODAS/POP AS WELL AS, CAFE STYLE DRINKS, i.e. Frappes/Frappuccino) Only downside is to be registered as a solo passenger on a cruise actually costs more expense-wise than cruising with a Buddy.

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lodav22@reddit

It's your birthday is the ultimate reason to do whatever you want. Eat whatever you want, see whatever you want. If it was me at 31 I would go for an early luxurious breakfast, then wander down to the beach for a couple of hours, looking for sea glass and rock pooling. Then before it got too hot, go back to my car and drive to the nearest large town and go looking through antique shops for the serendipititous finds ( just been paid? treat yourself to a vintage architect desk if you want one!) Then start planning your birthday dinner. If you feel up to cooking a whole meal, go to a local butcher for a good steak or if you just want an easy time find a good boutique deli with posh meats and cheeses. Put them in a cool bag you have in your car and go for a walk somewhere beautiful. Find somewhere to sit and imagine your life if you won't 156m dollars in the lottery, what you would do and where you would go. Then go home, make your beautiful dinner, watch a film you have wanted to watch for ages but have never had the time, enjoy an expensive bottle of wine and fall asleep dreaming of your day. Then the next day after your birthday find the perfect place for your architect table.

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Paull7@reddit

I just work & go about like any other day

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freegle_rock@reddit

My birthday isn't until November, but I have already decided what I am doing with it after a zoo trip last week. My favourite animal is the giant anteater, so I have decided I am going to book one of those zoo encounter/meet/feed an anteater. Can't wait!

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Needs_a_shit@reddit

I have two kids and I book my birthday off work specifically to have the day alone 😅 lie in a bit, get up and have whatever you want for brekkie, go do something you enjoy for the day (I’ve been climbing, bjj class, long run) then go get lunch somewhere and sit and read/listen to music, then you can do something else or just chill and order yourself a nice takeaway on the evening and play games or watch films. Honestly can’t wait to be able to do it again.

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Guilty_Public5356@reddit

Cook myself an amazing meal, get a good bottle of wine and watch my favourite movies.

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roxieh@reddit

Spent my 36th alone and it was honestly amazing. Did basically this but also got myself a pokemon cake with awesome candles as well. Was a brilliant restful day. Can recommend.

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LadySpatula@reddit

My 36th is on Tuesday and I have a week in a caravan booked, my first holiday completely alone. Cannot wait.

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Designer_Lobster1291@reddit

Solo trip

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Most-Tension-9635@reddit

Have a right big wank 👍

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Dotheysellpizza@reddit

This guy wanks

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Severus_1987@reddit

Probably to try to relieve all that tension

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Dotheysellpizza@reddit

It’s like a champagne cork, sound and all

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Aegwyn028@reddit

If you are local, and if it’s Friday or Saturday, I am happy to go out for few drinks with you ,sadly in a nasty way , in a last minute, had to spend my birthday alone end of last month, so I couldn’t make any plans for myself, so i ended up took my dogs to the pet store, had a play at the park and that’s it was

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ambabeeee@reddit

I would go for a nice lunch then the everyman cinema. Going to the cinema is one activity I like doing alone and the everyman feels like more of a treat!

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Curious_Sky3824@reddit

Do that 1 thing youve always wanted to do

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No-Animator-407@reddit

Go and grab yourself a nice meal then go to a bar and have a few drinks sometimes a good way to have a laugh with new people. Life gets easier god has a plan for everyone god bless you.

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jackgodby22@reddit

Treat yo’self!

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MackCLE@reddit

I’d buy you a drink to hear that malaria story. Don’t be down about doing it alone is most important. Happy upcoming birthday 🎉

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bunnazoot79@reddit

Personally I’d wake up, have a joint, I would then proceed that with another joint, maybe wait an hour or two and have another joint and then the day will take care of itself :) On a serious note just try and laugh about the situation, get yourself a cup cake, stick a candle on it, sing happy birthday to yourself and be grateful you’re not up town getting smashed and getting into fights (yes I’m speaking from personal experience… on both scenarios)

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tigrefacile@reddit

I would see how far I could stick my middle finger up my bum. But if that’s not for you maybe a city break? I hear Tallinn is nice this time of year.

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Ralphisinthehouse@reddit

It's more underwhelming than you might think.

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tigrefacile@reddit

The finger thing, or the Baltic capital?

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Ralphisinthehouse@reddit

Sorry, I thought it was clear. Both.

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tigrefacile@reddit

👌

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Opposite_Art5474@reddit

😂

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spu-ngis@reddit

Every year for my birthday, I go around hunting birthday freebies. It would be best to sign up to them as soon as you can as some need a bit of time before they send you the notification for the birthday gift/deal. https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/birthday-freebies-discounts/ A few of them do need money to be spent first before the “freebie” is given to you so not free in those cases. Some of them (like the Turtle Bay one) don’t need it though so I would get it to treat myself. You can spread out the freebies as it doesn’t necessarily need to be done on your actual birthday. I used to do it just by myself and then started doing it with my wife when we got married.

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Brutu5_@reddit

What’s the sport?

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Polarwarrior@reddit

Ooo… hello! Seasoned alone’birthdayer here, it’s not that I don’t have people wanting to spend the day with me which I do, it’s that I would rather be alone with just the dog in nature. I tend to take myself off down Cornwall way, book into an Airbnb with a hot tub, bonus points for more secluded. On the special day, I started my breakfast at the nearby biker café with amazing views and a good American fry up. In the morning, I went to visit Tintagel Castle and walked on the beach with the dog. Visited the pub in the afternoon for a nice pint and a book in a beer garden whilst the dog caught back his energy. Then around 6 o’clock I found a three hour hike to watch the sunset up on a cliff, which meant I had to bring my head torch for the walk back, but it was so worth it. Quick cupcake and few pictures up the top then it was a short drive back to the air BnB. Jump into the hot tub with a pizza and some Netflix and call it a day. https://preview.redd.it/r9jxh6s9dj4h1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=36df1f8ff78779d38e8478059716b5df1a9b3f1c

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One-Secretary844@reddit

I won't be able to do half the things but all of the things you do/did are so amazing ✨️ thnx for the ideas

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Polarwarrior@reddit

Just make it a day where you can treat yourself, do as many indulgent things as you want - just for the hell of it! And Happy pending Birthday!

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ZingasMcCoy@reddit

I like going to the movies and having a bit of a marathon.

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TSC-99@reddit

Oooh I’m autistic and this sounds ideal to me. Couple of nights away somewhere solo and nice like the Lake District. Ideal.

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EchoesinthekeyofbluE@reddit

Go on holiday

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Weekend-Various@reddit

I'm so doing this!

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brit_parent@reddit

I had my 29th birthday alone after going through an awful breakup a couple of weeks prior. I took myself to London for a few days, went to a few bars I’d wanted to try, went shopping, tried new food and got a couple of piercings I’d been putting off. Other than that I pretended it wasn’t happening.

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lastMETALfinal@reddit

I want to know about the malaria

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Forsaken_Visual_8639@reddit

Take yourself on a nice solo date- lunch in town and then the cinemas.

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daniboyo4@reddit

I spent my 31st hiking to the top of a mountain alone, nature can be a good place to start a new chapter and a good distraction from things.

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Lower_Kaleidoscope_3@reddit

https://preview.redd.it/r1ay3gu0fj4h1.png?width=500&format=png&auto=webp&s=81a0a15d99b34710d5929efcbad27fe485ad1c73

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Tsarinya@reddit

In the immortal words of Tom and Donna from Parks and Recreation: ‘Treat Yo Self!’. Seriously, if there’s something you’ve been eyeing up but always put off getting (a game station, a collectors item, a designer bag, etc) then if you have the fund why don’t you splurge on yourself? Go to a restaurant that serves your favourite food or order in! Find the yummiest, gooeyiest cake there is and celebrate. Book a weekend away. Alternatively you could sign yourself up for something to meet other people, like dancing, a cooking class, etc. If you’re that way inclined sign yourself up for volunteering. There are so many different ways you can mark your birthday and the great thing about being an adult is that if you really want to you call in sick and just spend the day eating pizza, watching crappy tv and not feel like you have to put on a show for people. Whatever you decide to do I hope you have a good birthday :)

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Dexterous_wallabee@reddit

I’m 32 on Friday, single, live alone. I’ll have a bit of a lie in, hopefully a little walk with breakfast at the end if the weathers ok (long lie in and bacon sandwich if it’s shit). Massage booked for the afternoon. Takeout, nice drink, favourite films in the evening- cannot wait!!

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RodJaneandFreddy5@reddit

I took myself out for lunch and a matinee at the theatre then a few drinks and the bus home a couple of years ago. I’d been at work in the morning and was at work the next morning. It was the best birthday I’d had in years. My partner is crap at birthdays and manages to upset me every time so I try to do something to make myself happy. Enjoy yourself whatever you end up doing!

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Alone_Storage_1897@reddit

Blissfully

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Otherwise_Hunter8425@reddit

Like others have said - if you have a hobby then indulge in that. Especially if you "book" that time in specifically to do your preferred activities. Personally I love musical theatre and wandering round museums and my birthday is in July l. Every year I treat myself to a few days "summer holiday" from work and take myself off to London (I live in the Lakes). I book 2/3 nights in a decent hotel (I'll be honest I don't really spend much time in the hotel so it's more about proximity and price for me) and then book shows for each evening (maybe throw in a matinee too) and spend the days in different museums. I can then wander round at my own pace without having to worry about anyone else or what they want to see/do. I might book myself a nice dinner out one night as a birthday treat but I've also had just as much fun with a pizza and wine in my hotel room after a show.

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lucasadtr@reddit

Top scientists all agree that the best way to prevent birthday depression is with a remote controlled car. Get yourself a nice rc and have a day out with a little picnic. Honestly it's just such a blast, plus then you'll have a fun new hobby for the summer

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greytidalwave@reddit

I'd travel somewhere. Stay in a hostel and you can't help but get talking to people. Last time I went I was in the dorm room less than 10 minutes before I'd arranged to go on a tour of the city with a lovely German girl.

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Alternative-Bee2962@reddit

I personally get drunk and blast music from my youth back in the 90's and act like I am still 18 😂 and that's what I plan on doing for my 45th next month

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Digidigdig@reddit

The niche sport you mentioned. Are they any instructors that you could do a few hours one-to-ones with?

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CraigL8@reddit

Like Andy https://youtu.be/zAB-0P65wRo?si=3oC07KfNOQwh7KPt

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Yikes44@reddit

I went on a group walking holiday to France for mine. At least that meant I had some people to share a drink with.

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stinkyfatman2016@reddit

Hey, just know that a bunch of strangers on the internet will be thinking about you on your birthday

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IntrepidMaybe8579@reddit

I always take a whole weekend to myself with a new game and takeaways for every meal and an insane amount of booze

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AnneThisaway@reddit

Can you get away for a few days?

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trainpk85@reddit

I’d buy the stuff in my Amazon basket or Shein basket or get myself some fresh white trainers. Then I’d have a normal day but at night time I’d order a Chinese take away but order extra instead of my regular meal. I think I’d do a starter and 2 mains plus 2 sides and then plate it up like the YouTube people do it! I’m pretty boring though 😭

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limpmaster9000@reddit

Booze

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Helpful_Librarian_87@reddit

Tall, dark & handsome ftw

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Stewstar73cyclism@reddit

Join a rugby club. Most accepting of people.

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TheNinjaPixie@reddit

Maybe address the issue. You were down last year about it and nothing has changed so make a change. Reconnect with people you liked but have drifted from. Volunteer somewhere once a month. Go try something new once a week, book club, cooking class, night school, anything. Other than that, buy yourself a present and if you like cake, a cake and go out to dinner! And Happy Birthday for 2 weeks time!

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Appropriate_Tell6746@reddit

All of my birthdays have been like that. Go on a spending spree online, either order in or go to your favourite restaurant, buy a birthday cake on the way home. Sometimes I do a cinema day where I book film after film then go to the restaurant.

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Sophyska@reddit

I’ve done it for most years for about the last 10. I usually do a day trip that I’ll enjoy; seaside, new city, even an overnighter if I can afford it. Eat some nice food, have a cold cider if I’m lucky and just do my own thing

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Dotheysellpizza@reddit

Get up go for a hike with some really nice snacks and have a sit and think for a bit. Then a podcast (Athletico mince one of the later episodes it starts weird) or audio book (dungeon crawler Carl) then walk myself ragged, shower, pizza, early night. Look at komoot or alltrails so you have a little dot on a map to follow if you’re worried about getting lost but getting out in nature and letting my mind unwind has really helped me

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Mental-Mission-472@reddit

If it falls on a weekend, get some nice food and drink and play football manager 😀

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KindlyAppointment973@reddit

What do you enjoy doing? Do that! For me, I'd buy all my favourite foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I'd have cake straight out the box with a fork. I'd probably go somewhere that I enjoy but that I don't go to all too often. Like a castle or a museum. Or I'd go somewhere I've never been before within an hour or two and be a tourist for the day. Or I'd sit in my pants watching my favourite shows and eat if it rained.

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Fehnder@reddit

I’d be doing my niche hobby 😂

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GuelderRoseFruit@reddit

If I didnt have the budget for a European or Uk-based city break, I'd go for a nice long hike with somewhere for a quiet pint halfway round.

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Lucymouse36@reddit

Book a pub BnB somewhere you haven't been but will enjoy exploring countryside-walks, city-museums sort of thing,

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JoeDaStudd@reddit

Nice takeaway, few cold drinks watching film or TV show then video games and round it off with a good wank. Honestly just do what you enjoy.\ So a day trip, have a fancy meal out, just chill out with your hobbies, etc.

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missyb@reddit

What do you like to do? Any specific interests? (If you like Terry Pratchett I can immediately induction you into a worldwide cult).

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Skiptotheend987@reddit

Ooooook

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Asleep-Software-4160@reddit

Go to Venice for a few days if budget allows, see something different.

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rockrooster@reddit

Im 31 in a month spending it by myself and im going to the closest city to me to get all the freebies companies give out on your birthday and buying myself a nice lunch

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Deep_Pepper_5405@reddit

My last birthday I went to the local cafe and bought an overpriced piece of chocolate cake. Got a piccolo bottle of prosecco. Selection on cheese. I put on a movie and enjoyed my cake and cheese.

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TheCatWithATiara@reddit

Do something you enjoy, whether it's a walk on the beach, a nice meal out or takeaway with a good film, spa day, cinema or explore a new place for the day. Treat yourself to something you want. Just make it another day, but one with extra treats. I've had some awful birthdays over the years, many on my own. The main thing is to be kind to yourself x

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magicpjj@reddit

Indulge yourself in your absolute most favourite things! And have a think if you want quality time with just yourself or if you want to be around others. Both are fun in their own ways. If you want to be on your own, then get all your favourite films/games etc and order if your favourite foods. If you want to be around others, maybe see if there's a band/event on or a special interest club to go to

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Old-Trick5289@reddit

After years of being let down by friends, I used to always go away solo for my birthday. Mostly abroad but sometimes just somewhere in the uk. I had a blast! 😁 I’ve now got a partner but still do an annual trip on my birthday.

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Tora-bora83@reddit

What do you enjoy doing? Any hobbies? Do something that will give you joy and treat yourself to some really nice food

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Clear_Caterpillar394@reddit

I'd go to a nice restaurant and get a lil bit drunk personally

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