There are two kinds of people in life – those who refuse to acknowledge that they are growing older and therefore choose to not celebrate their birthday each year; and then there are those who absolutely love when their birthday rolls around and are therefore fully committed to having some kind of (big) celebration.
I distinctly fall into the latter.
I recently sat and thought about why I love celebrating my birthday. And while everyone might have different reasons, mine is simple – I get to spend the day with those that are closest to my heart.
Not only do I love my birthday, but I love celebrating others on their birthdays too! I love planning birthday surprises for those I love, and I have found the key to this is knowing exactly what the ‘birthday person’ likes. Top tip: It wouldn’t hurt to take little mental notes throughout the year when your loved ones mention an item they would like to get or a place they would like to visit.
But what is all this talk about birthdays you may ask?
Well, it is usually round about this time of the year that I start deciding what I will be doing for my birthday. Since my birthday falls precisely in the middle of festive season (after Christmas, but before New Year), and while everyone is usually in the ‘festive spirit’, I always find it exciting to add just another little party to the list.
In thinking what I could do for my birthday this year, I started thinking about birthdays past and the activities we got up to.
If you happen to live in the Cape Town area in South Africa, and looking for something to do for your birthday, then perhaps the below will give you some inspiration. Over the past few years (pre-Covid) these are all the places that I have personally tried out for my birthday and found quite enjoyable. If they are not your cup of tea, then perhaps it might be a great birthday idea for someone you know.
Keep in mind, I am someone that that loves having a little birthday get-together where everyone is doing some kind of activity. It helps keep the day entertaining while also trying something new.
Hint Hunt – V & A Waterfront
If you are a gamer at heart, or just interested in trying something new, then how about a real-life escape game? From 2-6 players, you are locked in a room (of your choosing) for 60 minutes, and upon finding various clues, you need to try and figure out firstly, the plot of the story, and secondly, your way out of the locked room. It might seem easy at first, but actually, the more clues you get, the more confusing it becomes. The Hint Hunt crew will give you clues as you go along – but ultimately, you will be laughing and strategising all the way through. When we went, we booked ‘The Hotel Room’ room.
My suggestion would be to book an early morning session, and then you can still take a leisurely stroll around the V and A.
To check out all the rooms and prices, click here. It really is a different kind of experience.
Spice Route – Paarl
If you are a keen ‘taster’, and can’t decide what it is you are in in the mood for – then perhaps Spice Route is the place for you. From chocolate tastings to beer to gin – there are lots to choose from. This, coupled with beautiful scenery of mountains and valleys is just amazing. You are welcome to roam (with masks) and sit outside on the grass while the kids play away. On the day we went, we had gourmet burgers for lunch, and then because we arrived slightly late, half our group opted for the gin tasting while the other half, beer. Imagine unrivalled views, greenery, shaded areas, the smell of good food and the taste of crisp wine on a hot summer’s day – doesn’t that sound like the perfect birthday spot?
Clay Café – Hout Bay
Pick your ceramic item and paint away. The Clay Café in Hout Bay is a true experience. When have you ever painted the afternoon away, while been served delicious food and ice-cold craft beer? From bowls to vases, to animals and home decor, the list of items to choose from are endless. Items are individually priced, though, so make sure you check this before choosing your item. This experience was just a great day out for everyone who joined me, and everyone got the chance to be creative while chatting away. The Clay Café has a beautiful outdoor and indoor setting and a delicious full menu to choose from. So all you do is paint, eat, drink and enjoy, and before you leave, you leave your beautifully painted item at the door. Clay Café will bake it and then call you when it is ready for collection. To book, click here.
Wynberg Park
This is something I had wanted to do for years, and actually decided to do it a few months just before we were hit with Covid. No planning is needed really – just round up your picnic baskets and troops and make your way to the park. Don’t forget your blankets, pillows and chairs though. There are spots to choose from, the best is to find the biggest tree for lots of shade. Entry to the park is free, so best to go through early.
Breakfast in the Cape Winelands
What is better than waking up early, and having all your people join you for a delicious breakfast out in the Winelands. I love breakfasts, more so buffets, as it always feels like an occasion and you get to taste just a little bit of everything. Over the years, we have visited Zevenwacht Wine Estate, Skilpadvlei and Lourensford. Of course, these types of outings are not just meant for breakfast – most wine farms offer delectable lunches too.
At-Home Themed Party
I always maintain, your birthday does not mean that you need to leave home to go out and enjoy yourself. If anything, Covid has taught us to stay home as much as we can. If you do find yourself at home on your birthday, why not simply throw a themed party? There are so many different themes to choose from, but if you are lost – in the past, I have thrown and attended a ‘White and Bling Party’, ‘Hat Party’, ‘Where the Colour Blue Party’, ‘Murder Mystery’ ‘Cook Off’ and ‘Celebrity Dress Up Party’. All of these were great fun and once again, guests got the chance to be creative. My suggestion for any themed party would be, stick to what you think would be easiest for all, and give your guests enough time to plan their outfits.
So these are my tried and tested Cape Town-based birthday celebration ideas, and yet, I know, there are so many other places to still try out. If you reside in Cape Town, please do share with us your ultimate birthday party celebration experience – so we too can try it out!