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The Top Party Holiday Destinations of 2024!

With so many amazing party holiday resorts to visit, it can be tricky to decide which one you want to go to! But worry no more! In this list, we have compiled our top destinations for 2024. So are you ready to find the perfect party holiday destination for you in 2024? Let’s get right to it!

1. Ayia Napa Party Resort

Party animals, where ya at? This destination is for you! With unmatched party vibes, a wide variety of music and class events, a good time in Ayia Napa is always a guarantee! Plus, drinks are always cheap…. Shots on you, yeah? Our top picks for events here are the Fantasy Boat Party, Sunset Sessions and Pambos Pool Party! This is the perfect location for all your messy nights and sunny day memories, so better get booking for an amazing summer in 2024!

2. Kavos Party Resort

Kavos is on the smaller side, but that’s not to say that there’s not just as much fun to be had here as in other destinations on this list! Kavos, located on the Greek island of Corfu, is the place to be when it comes to epic pool parties (our favourite is Champagne Sessions), plus so many amazing events. Its smaller size means that it’s perfect for those going on their first party holiday (lucky you!) or for people who want to go to a smaller area. It’s also relatively cheaper compared to other party locations like Ibiza. Kavos attracts thousands of party people every year, will you be joining them in 2024?

3. Zante Party Resort

Zante is the perfect place for those looking to party like a VIP! It has it all, beautiful beaches, big events, and bargain drinks. Anyone looking at your Insta story is going to be mega jealous of your holiday in this picture-perfect paradise. This location is perfect for a first-party holiday, as drinks are cheap plus it’s full of other first-time partiers. The only question left is, are you ready?! 

4. Ibiza Party Resort

Ibiza is iconic for a reason; big-name performers and unforgettable events in an absolutely beautiful setting. However, Ibiza can be a bit overwhelming for a first-time party holidayer, as this party destination spans no less than four towns on the island of Ibiza. On top of this, it is a slightly pricier destination, so make sure you have the budget to ensure you have an unforgettable trip here!

5. Magaluf Party Resort

A party holiday in Maga is always mega! Magaluf has a notorious reputation for its party scene, and trust us, it is WILD. This town on the island of Mallorca has so many classic party events, like Gringo’s Bingo and Full Moon Party! This Mediterranean party mecca might be slightly overwhelming if it’s your first party holiday, but if you are a seasoned pro then this location is perfect! A party holiday to Maga is on the bucket list for anyone who loves having a good time.

So there it is! Our top party holiday destinations of 2024. Do you agree with us? Has one caught your eye? Maybe there’s an event you like the sound of? Well, to get the best deals on everything mentioned in this article check out Party Hard Travel! Most of all, don’t forget to have the best time on your 2024 party holiday!

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30 Party Cities and Places to Go for Your 21st Birthday

You’re probably counting the days when you get to celebrate and drink legally, so check out these fun and lively places to go for your 21 st birthday.

Whether you’re planning a weekend or week-long trip for this momentous occasion, I’m sure you’ll be able to pick an interesting spot from these 30+ party-thriving cities that would fit your interest and budget.

15 Best Cities to Celebrate Your 21st Birthday

1. new orleans, louisiana.

Bourbon Street in New Orleans (pictured above) is an awesome weekend destination if you’re looking to party with good food, good music, and culture.

This 13-block historic street is located in the heart of the French Quarter and is where you’ll find many bars, strip joints, and street concerts and parties.

The wilder parties, strip clubs, unlimited drinks, and bachelor/bachelorette parties are held in bars and spots in the Upper Bourbon. The Lower Bourbon is a bit quieter but houses the LGBTQ Bourbon blocks. (Dig deeper into the establishments of Bourbon Street ).

If you’re resting from your binge-drinking weekend, you can visit other New Orleans attractions nearby.

If you want to explore whiskey, bourbon, gin, vodka, and other different kinds of hard drinks, Louisiana liquor can best be discovered by visiting Louisiana distilleries . Go for tasting tours if you have time – they’re worth the trouble.

2. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is an obvious choice for people turning 21.

After all, you can do all your drinking everywhere from the slot machines at the casinos to the strip joints. If you want to really explore the Las Vegas strip with every kind of shot now available to you, join a bar crawl or club crawl to get into the best venues (often drinks included).

The city is also famous for its party buses and pool parties hosted by most hotels on a nightly basis. And because the nightlife here gets going up to dawn , you can totally maximize your birthday weekend with an all-out drinking marathon.

If you’re planning to hit the tourist destinations in between drinks, check these must-do’s in Las Vegas and a quick guide on how to go around the city without a car .

3. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago isn’t just a spot for theater fans – there are several neighborhoods that are known for party, party, party. Just go to Clark street at Wrigleyville (even after 10) and you’ll see the most lively cluster of bars out of all of Chicago.

Lincoln Park is home to the music venue Lincoln Hall if you’re lucky to catch a concert by someone you love. Near it are plenty of bars and 20s-30s crowd hopping bars like Pros, Elbo Room, Red Lion Pub and more.

Wicker Park also boasts a wide range of pubs, clubs and music venues with the likes of Whiskey Business, The Flat Iron, and Debonair. Nearby, there’s Logan Square, which is smaller, but still a must-visit for bars like The Rocking Horse, Emporium and East Room.

River North attracts college students and young professionals because it’s easy to go bar-hopping with the many options from State to LaSalle area.

4. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Bricktown is where most locals go for a fun night out. There are a lot of restaurants, live music venues, bars and dance spots in the former warehouse district. TapWerks Ale House, for example, has over 300 beers on its menu with 100 on tap.

It depends what you’re looking for: do you wish to watch live music while enjoying your drink? Or do you prefer to explore the unique brewery scene in Oklahoma?

5. New York City, New York

As a cultural melting pot and the “city that never sleeps,” New York City makes it extra challenging to pick just one spot to celebrate your 21st birthday. Your best plan of attack is to pick a neighborhood first and bar-hop within the area (or stick to just one venue).

If you’re in Brooklyn, go to Output for clubbing (it’s the best party spot of its kind in NYC), or go to the Wythe Hotel’s trendy rooftop hotel bar if you’d like a more relaxed night.

Make sure to check out this post about 10 unusual things to do in New York if you’re looking for something memorable to do.

6. Washington, DC

Yes, Washington isn’t just about politics and monuments. The district has a thriving nightlife scene perfect for students, tourists, and anyone just looking for an awesome night out.

• Capitol Hill has many pubs spread out in this neighborhood, but it can be political as many interns and young professionals hang out here.
• U Street is where the live music, dancing and partying is found. Relaxed, rooftop bars like Local 16 and Marvin are favorites in the area. The Gibson is for speakeasy lovers.
• Dupont Circle is where trendy bars are.
• H Street NE is the newest up-and-coming neighborhood that younger generations flock to.

7. Charlotte, North Carolina

From speakeasies, live music venues, nightclubs, karaoke bars, wine bars, dance clubs, and more, Charlotte’s got a lot going on after the sun goes down.

If you live around here, you can also spend your birthday weekend checking out the best breweries in Asheville – it’s one of the best places to learn about local brewing history.

8. Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids has such an exciting beer craft scene – it proudly calls itself Beer City.

If your goal is to try as many craft beer you can drink in a day or weekend, check my comprehensive guide about the who’s who of Grand Rapids breweries so you know which ones to include in your itinerary.

9. Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City is the best alternative for Las Vegas if you can only celebrate your 21st birthday on the East Coast. The city may be smaller than Vegas, but it has its casinos, pubs, clubs, and a whole lot of fun venues.

There’s a spot for everyone – whether you’d like to disco-dancing at the old school Boogie Nights club, or get a real Irish pub experience, Atlantic City has so much to offer.

10. Wine towns of Virginia

If you’re not really a hard liquor or beer drinker, go to the birthplace of American wine: Virginia. You wouldn’t really find party places here, but if quality wine or cider is important for you, visiting the wine towns of Virginia is definitely a trip you’ll remember for the ages.

In northern and central Virginia, there are 4,000+ acres of vineyards, which make up over 300 wineries. This is where America’s oldest wine grape (Norton) was born.

If you have more time to explore the state, check out:

• Gorgeous lakes in Virginia
• Golf courses in Virginia

Aside from wine tasting tours, you can also include cider tasting tours (of over 50 cideries), especially if this is your first time to visit for wine and cider and you’re lost on which stops to include with your itinerary.

It’s hard to pick just one town in Texas. If you’ve decided on this state as your destination for your 21st birthday (or probably you live here), here are 3 cities you can decide on:

• 11. Austin, Texas – It’s the Live Music Capital of the World and is home to MANY live music venues like House of Blues, as well as the infamous Sixth Street (pictured above) where many bars, clubs, theaters, and other venues are located. Check my guide to Austin breweries if you’re after a good beer tour.
• 12. Dallas, Texas – The music history in Dallas runs deep, so you can choose from rooftop parties to live music venues, fancy theaters, karaoke joints, honky tonk, and even late-night restaurants that serve awesome local craft beer when you celebrate your 21st birthday party here.
• 13. Ft. Worth, Texas – Two notable districts in Fort Worth is Stockyards (where local breweries shine in Western-style saloons) and Sundance Square downtown (where live theaters, bars, pubs, and other lively venues are found).

If you plan to make a trip to Arizona’s vast desert landscape and explore the jaw-dropping views from the Grand Canyon to the unique formations of the Chiricahua Mountains, spare a day or two in the city and enjoy what Arizona nightlife has to give.

• 14. Phoenix, Arizona – Phoenix has a thriving craft beer scene, bars with live music, dancing, and games (most bars come with darts, foosball, and pinball here).
• 15. Tucson, Arizona – Soak in the Western ambiance and local wine and craft beer in Tucson’s brewpubs, artsy cafes, music venues, and courtyards for cocktails, music, and dancing. If you want to celebrate somewhere with a bigger feel, visit Desert Diamond Casino.

Places to Go for 21st Birthday in Florida

This list simply can’t be complete without Florida cities like:

• Key West, Florida – Though the island is only 4×2 miles in size, Key West has over 360 liquor licenses, providing you with plenty of bars, dance clubs, live music venues, cocktail dens, wine bars, Irish pubs, and more. If you’re going here as part of your Florida Keys road trip , check out your options before visiting.
• Miami, Florida – For a memorable beach party, you can never go wrong with Miami. It’s where you’ll find nightly pool parties, beach events, and boat tours if you’re feeling fancy and adventurous. Don’t miss bar tours and salsa-mojito nights if you’re not a party type but still want a lively 21st birthday. ( Or check out this guide if you’re spending the weekend in Miami )
• Tampa, Florida – Aside from Miami, Tampa is another beach party town in Florida. You have options to go on a bar crawl on the Riverwalk, go wild at party cruises in Clearwater Beach or St. Pete, and experience getting drunk with authentic Cuban food in Ybor City.

Places to Go for 21st Birthday in California

There are few places in the world that can rival California’s nightlife, so it’s just expected that there are several places around the state that is perfect for your 21st birthday celebration. They include:

• San Francisco – When it comes to food, drinks, nightclubs, the performing arts, and live entertainment, San Francisco doesn’t disappoint. You can go by neighborhoods like Union Square (for deliciously local craft cocktails), SoMa (for dance clubs with amazing DJs), Richmond (for microbrews), the Financial District (if you’re a wine drinker), and Mission if you’ve come here for fun dive bars.
• Napa Valley – Napa Valley offers a chill vibe than other California towns, but if you’re up for a wine tour, this place can be your 21st birthday destination. Aside from the area’s renowned wineries, you can also enjoy dancing, live music, cocktail bars, and annual festivals.
• San Diego – San Diego is one of Southern California’s most popular destinations thanks to its beaches, year-round good climate and hottest nightclubs like FLUXX and bars in Gaslamp Quarter.
• Palm Springs – If you wish to spend your 21st birthday by the pool or under the sun, Palm Springs has plenty to offer. From rooftop bars to dance clubs, al fresco cocktail bars, a TON of pool parties like the legendary Ace Hotel and The Saguaro parties, you won’t run out of options.
• Los Angeles – For the glitz and glamour, head over to LA and celebrate your 21st birthday in places like the famed Sunset Strip. There are 4 hip neighborhoods in central LA (Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Downtown, and Hollywood) that offers a wide range of party spots to fit everyone’s preference and budget. Up for some celebrity sighting? Check this guide if you’re staying a day or two in LA .

Places to Go for 21st Birthday in Tennessee

It can be a memorable 21st birthday weekend if you pick Tennessee, especially if you’re looking to enjoy live music, After all, the origins of country, bluegrass, blues, southern gospel, and rock ‘n’ roll have all been traced to the Volunteer State.

While there are plenty of bars and music venues all over Tennessee , the bulk of them is found in Nashville and Memphis. Here are some must-see places in each area:

• Nashville : Your body will be full of alcoholic drinks, but your soul filled with music as you hop from concerts, the honky tonks, and bars from all over the music city.
• Memphis : From Downtown hotspots including Beale Street and South Main Street bars to Midtown entertainment districts including Overton Square and Cooper-Young, Memphis will deliver.

But if you’re a fan of whiskey, DON’T MISS touring Tennessee whiskey distilleries! Check my post about the 10 Best Distilleries on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail .

21st Birthday Overseas Trip Ideas

If you have the budget to go all out with a trip overseas, you can drink to your heart’s content and enjoy the beach views on exotic beaches found in Mexico, Cuba, or Puerto Rico.

For those who want to explore farther and got inspired by the 2004 comedy flick EuroTrip , you can make an itinerary with well-known party cities like Croatia, Barcelona (Spain), Budapest (in Hungary), Dublin, Liverpool England, Antiparos Island in Greece, Paris, Munich in Germany, Czech Republic’s Prague, to name a few.

Of course, don’t count out Asian countries, especially if you’re on a budget and want to stretch your dollars for more days of legal drinking in Bangkok Thailand, Taipei Taiwan, Boracay Philippines, and Hoi An in Vietnam.

Can’t decide which country to go to? You can always spend your 21st birthday on a cruise from either Royal Caribbean , Carnival , or Norwegian Cruise Line. You’re guaranteed there’s overflowing booze, pools, casinos onboard, and spectacular views of the sea and stopovers to make the entire trip super-memorable.

Need more ideas? My guide to 30 of the most popular Spring Break destinations should also help pick from the many places known for their nightlife and parties.

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6 Incredible Trips to Take for a 50th Birthday Adventure

Explorer Chick

March 04, 2024

Ready to celebrate your 50th birthday in style? Ditch the traditional birthday cake and candles routine (and chores!) and step things up with an adventure tour!

From hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with a group of fierce women, to seeing the northern lights in Iceland , we’ve got a list of thrilling 50th birthday trip ideas that’ll have you feeling like the queen of the world.

Think: deluxe camping, porters, and chefs, plus breathtaking scenery and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers. We’ve got something for everyone.

So get ready to blow out those candles and embark on an unforgettable adventure to mark the start of your next decade!

50th Birthday Getaway: The Ultimate Adventure Vacation You Need for Celebrating Half a Century

Looking for a bold and empowering way to celebrate your milestone with a 50th birthday getaway? Consider joining an adventure tour for women that will take you on a solo journey of self-discovery and transformation, while also connecting you with a group of like-minded women .

Solo travel within a group setting is the perfect opportunity to rediscover yourself and your sense of adventure , free from the chains of routine and responsibility. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, step outside your comfort zone, and fully immerse yourself in the culture and surroundings of your destination, all while making memories with new gal pals who share your passion for living life to the fullest.

By joining a group of women on an adventure tour, you’ll have the freedom to explore and engage with the world in a way that is uniquely yours, while also making new connections with other women who are just as zany and curious as you are. It’s a chance to be fully present in the moment, laugh until your stomach hurts, and create memories that will make you smile for years to come.

Plus, everything will be planned for you. All you need to do is show up for a good time.

But solo travel within a group setting is not just about adventure and exploration – it’s also a powerful way to build confidence and independence . As you navigate unfamiliar terrain and make decisions on your own, you’ll gain a sense of self-reliance and self-assurance that can carry over into all aspects of your life.

You are wise, you are strong. You have seen s*%t. Your 50th birthday is like a badge of honor and should be celebrated with the importance and dignity it deserves.

As a wise, mature woman who has experienced life’s ups and downs, you know that true happiness comes from immersing yourself in new experiences and pushing beyond your comfort zone.

There is some serious bad-assery involved with these 50th birthday getaway trip ideas we’re about to share with you. Ready to change your life?

Where Can I Celebrate My 50th Birthday?

So, where are the best place to start year 50 with a bang? There are plenty of great places, but to give you some ideas, here are 6 epic trip ideas for that big 5 0.

1. Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Looking for an unforgettable way to celebrate your 50th birthday at a dream destination ? Look no further than a 10-day women’s active Uganda Gorilla trekking, hiking, and Safari Adventure that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

From breathtaking views and flying to Uganda’s most remote game reserve to explore unspoiled savannahs and spy on spectacular creatures, to hiking through pristine forests and tracking chimpanzees, lions, leopards, and hyenas.

But this trip is more than just an adventure – it’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about conservation efforts, and directly support local women by staying at a homestead that benefits domestic abuse survivors. It’s a chance to explore a different culture and gain new perspectives on life.

And of course, the Bwindi gorilla trekking encounter is the crown jewel of the trip – a chance to spend a glorious hour in the presence of majestic creatures that will leave you feeling awed and humbled. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will remind you of the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

2. Hike the Inca Trail in Peru

What could be a better way to mark this milestone birthday than a trip to a historic bucket list destination with spectacular scenery? Hiking the Inca Trail in Peru is the perfect backdrop to prove that 50 is just a number and reaching your half century doesn’t mean you have to leave behind your spirit of adventure.

However, that doesn’t mean you have to endure an entirely back-to-basics trip. I don’t know about you but at my age I enjoy at least some touches of luxury even on camping trips . Check out trips with porter support, and decent accommodation – think dining tents, private toilets and showers and maybe the option for at least a few nights in proper beds after time spent exploring this unique region of the world.

Imagine your sense of accomplishment completing an epic hike, following in the footsteps of the Inca to Machu Picchu. Take in the amazing views and experience the unique culture. Get your camera ready for some unmatchable social pics.

This magical experience is definitely a trip for those with a decent level of physical fitness who can cope with and enjoy a challenging uphill hike at high altitude. If you love leg day and the high from completing an intense work-out, this is the dream vacation for you.

3. Go Ice Climbing And See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Now this was definitely on my bucket list when I was planning my 50th. It was only the fact that my birthday is in May and that’s not the best time to see the Northern Lights that made me reluctantly shelve that trip for another occasion.

If you love cozy clothes and cute hats, roaring fires and idyllic winterscapes, Iceland is the place for you. Beat the beach bores by casually dropping in mentions of your glacier ice climbing and hot springs soak seshes, and wow them with your waterfall selfies. No filters needed for pics of this incredibly photogenic nation with black beaches, blue waters and of course, majestic glaciers. Explore craggy national parks, volcanic landscapes and beautiful waterscapes and enjoy the freshest of air during your birthday celebration.

This destination would work equally well as a solo trip, bonding experience with friends, or even as a family vacation with enough outdoor activities on offer here to satisfy even the most hard core adventurer.

4. Walk on a Glacier in Alaska

Continuing in the chill zone, how about exploring a glacier in the largest state in the US? Alaska has a whole bunch of fun things to do for bad-ass nature lovers so if kayaking, climbing , hiking , and generally high-fiving Mother Nature is your thing, this is the special occasion state for you.

Here are some fun facts about Alaska :

• Alaska has more volcanoes than any other US state. • Alaska has around 100K glaciers . • Alaska has 3 million lakes and almost 55,000 km of tidal shoreline.

Consider a road trip or guided vacation to make the most of a trip to Alaska for your 50th birthday. For an especially unique trip, consider a plane ride over national parks or glaciers, trekking on a glacier, or sea kayaking through icy waters in the Prince William Sound. (If you want to do ALL of these, the Explorer Chick Alaska trip packs all these adventures in and more.)

5. Snorkel in the Galapagos

Some people prefer warmer climates and if admiring nature’s wonders on a sandy beach in tropical paradise in South America sounds like your idea of bliss, then consider walking in Darwin’s footsteps in the Galapagos .

All year round there are different creatures and plants to see, some of which you won’t see anywhere else in the world. The Galapagos is a group of volcanic islands, rocks and islets about 1,000 kms off the coast of Ecuador in the Southern Hemisphere. Visiting this region, you can check out the truth in the story that water swirls down the drain the opposite way in the Southern Hemisphere versus the Northern Hemisphere.

This really is the go-to place for nature lovers so if your TikTok is populated with cute animal videos and you love the National Geographic channel, you have to take the opportunity of a lifetime and treat yourself to the best birthday present ever – a trip to the Galapagos islands .

Enjoy impressive natural wonders, incredible landscapes and encounters with nature in a way that protects and conserves, then retire to luxurious accommodation to upload pics and share your experience. I mean, is there any point in traveling to these fabulous destinations if you can’t sprinkle a few brag-bites through your social media?

The fun doesn’t stop there though — don’t just stand and gawp at the sights this real-world Jurassic Park has on offer. Get up close and personal by snorkeling, hiking, and biking to get a 360 degree feel for this special place with beautiful beaches and a whole host of breathtaking sights you won’t see in even the best of botanical gardens.

Sure — you could see many of the world’s creatures during a day trip to the zoo but for a 50th birthday or other special occasions, a trip to Galapagos has to be on the top of any birthday trip ideas list especially if you’re keen to see turtles and tortoises from the water’s edge rather than from behind glass.

6. Go Wild in Las Vegas

The only thing you need in Sin City is a desire to have fun whether that’s in the many casinos, eating until you feel you might burst, scaling the rocks of the world famous Red Rocks or kayaking through the Black Canyon on the Lower Colorado River.

With such incredible restaurants and so many fabulous eateries within walking distance of most hotels, you’ll want to make the most of the beautiful outdoorsy calorie-burning activities around sin city (so you can work up an appetite and eat even more, of course!). Your hotel might have an onsite restaurant but there are loads of places to eat in Vegas ranging from casual themed to fine dining.

There is more to Vegas than the Strip so check out the “old town” around Fremont Street. People watch, dance to live music, and check out the many art galleries in this district, including the Metropolitan Gallery Las Vegas Art Museum.

I live in a rural area and work in a big city (basically, the best of both worlds) so I know how great a vacation with elements of both can be. Imagine being able to go from marveling at the bright lights of Vegas to the billion star sky of the surrounding desert-scape. Spend a day hiking, climbing or biking on day trips in the Mojave Desert then head straight back to civilization for a session in the steam room, hot tub and a selection of spa treatments to get you ready for your next adventure.

7. Customize a Private Trip

Celebrate your 50th birthday in style by booking a private trip with Explorer Chick ! Gather your closest friends, family, or whoever makes your adventure squad, and embark on a personalized journey tailored just for you.

Whether it’s a serene escape, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or a cultural immersion, we’re here to make it happen. Choose one of our trips, but know we’re flexible with duration, route, and excursions —  your private trip is customizable. And because it’s YOUR private trip, you can even invite the Explorer Dudes and kiddos along.

More Wonders to Discover: Additional Unique Ideas for Your 50th Milestone!

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How do you celebrate your 50th birthday.

Celebrate with cake, with friends, with an experience to relax or challenge you – you choose! If scaling a mountain solo or attending yoga retreats brings you joy then do that rather than organize an event for other people to enjoy. I’m a foodie so my idea of a treat would involve great, delicious food, in a scenic location.

What Is the 50th Birthday Called?

Did you know that a 50th birthday can be called a semi-centennial or a quinquagenary? Now you do!

Is There a Color for 50th Birthday?

A 50th wedding anniversary is a Golden wedding anniversary – gold is generally associated with any 5oth anniversary, including 50th birthdays.

Why is Your 50th Birthday Special?

Any birthday is special, especially those when you reach an age with a 0 in it, but reaching 50 should be particularly celebrated as it marks a whole half a century since birth. For me, it was a milestone birthday that I could enjoy as an established confident woman who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go get it.

I believe we should take every opportunity to enjoy and celebrate life, so if you have a big birthday coming up, start listing those perfect birthday trip* ideas now!

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50 Birthday Parties for Adults: Unique Celebrations You Can Host Anywhere

Y ou throw extravagant birthday parties for your kiddos every year. Don’t forget to save some fun for yourself! The next time you or one of your favorite grown-ups have a birthday coming up, book that babysitter early and enjoy a night out with friends to celebrate surviving another year of parenthood.

Whether you prefer to be lazy and relaxed or want to glam it up and go all out, there are tons of options for the kind of night you have in mind. We’ve compiled a list of 50 ideas and themes for birthday parties for adults. Choose from one of the following 50 unique celebrations you can host anywhere!

These are popping up in cities all across the country wherever you find large bodies of water. Dressed up in the best tropical garb, tiki boats are the coolest floating tiki parties you’ve ever seen. Cruise in style for your next birthday party.

Pajama Party

Host a pajama party at your house! Everybody comes comfortably dressed in adult onesies or whatever they feel like sporting. You can serve cereal, donuts, and Bailey’s with coffee. The best part is that everybody can just jump right into bed when they get home, no change of clothes needed!

Ropes Course

Embark on a treetop adventure traversing aerial trails and zip lining from tree to tree. You’ll maneuver up and down ladders, across various catwalks, and swing into nets. It’s an exhilarating excursion and a perfect daytime group activity.

Bike Bar Crawl

Have your friends meet you out for a bar crawl by bike! You’ll have to plan a safe route following trails instead of busy streets, and possibly a ride home, but you’ll all have a ball biking from here to there with a group.

Blind Wine Tasting

Have everybody bring a bottle of wine in a paper sleeve. Everybody tastes, rates, and describes each wine blind. See if the priciest bottles are the tastiest. Find out how accurately you described each wine. This is a neat way to taste wine and start great conversations.

Game Show Battle Rooms

Think Escape Rooms but with game shows! The parties are hosted by Game Show Battle Rooms staff and competitions are inspired by your favorite current and old-school game shows. Face off against your friends or complete strangers in custom, themed arenas.

Rent a Pontoon

Rent a pontoon for the day, or opt for an evening rental for a sunset cruise. You are allowed to bring your own food and drinks onboard, so pack a picnic or end your evening at a restaurant near the marina.

If you’re looking for the fanciest birthday party, book a tea time at a classy tea room. Everybody can get dressed up and enjoy a nice pot of tea with finger sandwiches.

River Float

If you’ve got a summer birthday, you must try a river float with friends. It’s a chill day floating along in your own inner tubes. You can tie all of the tubes together so nobody falls behind. Don’t forget a cooler and portable speaker!

Photo Shoot

Get dressed up and find a nice location for a photo shoot. Hire a photographer or take turns hopping behind the camera to capture some great shots. Take some serious photos you can frame in addition to those silly poses!

Dessert Crawl

Treat yourself to a dessert crawl through town. Stop in at a few eateries and just order dessert. You will get to try several dishes throughout the night. Maybe you’ll even get to blow out candles more than once!

Bar hop downtown with your friends on a pedal pub. It’s a pub on wheels powered by you! Don’t worry many now offer motorized bars to help move things along. Pedal your way through town while enjoying spirits and listening to your favorite music.

Attend a Fundraiser

If you want to get really dressed up with a few of your friends but for a purpose, look into what fundraisers are being held near the time of your birthday. You can enjoy a fancy night out with dinner and dancing all while supporting a good cause!

Cruise in a Limousine

Rent a limousine for the night! Bar hop around town with your own dedicated driver or just go for a joyride. Limos come in all shapes and sizes from the Chicken Limo to a party bus. Whatever kind of night you’re planning, there’s a limo just right for you.

Have a hands-on party at an art studio like Board and Brush! You and your friends can make beautiful art together. Choose from projects like clocks, serving trays, porch signs, and clothing hooks. Instructors show you how and where to sand, stain, stencil, and hammer so everything always turns out looking amazing.

Punch Bowl Social

Celebrate your special day with friends at Punch Bowl Social. This cool but casual restaurant has a hip club vibe with game-room activities, all of which pair well with delicious food and giant punch bowls full of adult beverages. You can rent a lane for bowling, rock out in a private karaoke room, or play shuffleboard, giant Jenga, or skee ball.

Candle Making

Host a candle-making party! At do-it-yourself candle-making shops, you’ll get to smell test different scents, choose your vessel, and mix it all up yourself. It makes for a great night out with friends.

Duckpin Bowling

Duckpin bowling is the new bowling. Since the balls are very small and you don’t have to change into bowling shoes, it’s a great choice for a group outing or birthday party that everybody will enjoy.

Anything But Clothes

The rule is you can wear anything but clothes. Find items around the house (a shower curtain, blanket, tablecloth etc.). This is probably a first for most guests! So if you like to host a unique party, this one is for you.

Color Street

Host a Color Street nail party. Color Street nails are stick-on nail polish strips that feel like gel nails and come in a variety of unique shades. You can share the secret of salon nails at a fraction of the price by having all of your girlfriends over for a nail party to try them out.

Gather 10 or so friends together for a day on a beer bus! The bus takes you to three to four breweries of your choice and nobody has to drive. The bus companies often have deals with breweries to offer free tastings and swag.

Casino Night

Host a casino night in your basement. Set up craps, roulette, blackjack, and a poker table. The suggested attire can be Vegas-themed. You could even hire a dealer or two to keep track of the chips!

Hibachi Chef

A hibachi dinner show is always a blast. Now, they can come to you in your own home or yard! You set up a large table and they’ll do the rest! The chefs always put on a great show for the birthday boy or girl.

Trampoline Park

Did you know you can rent out a trampoline park for birthday parties for adults only? Book an after-hours party at Urban Air , or any trampoline park, and you’ll have the whole place to yourself. Jump, flip, zip, and dive without fear you’ll bump into a child.

Bumper Ball Party

If you’ve never seen bumper balls, they’re giant inflatable balls that your body fits into so you can roll, crash, and smash into one another. It’s like a sumo suit, but your whole body except your legs is covered. You can play a soccer game with the suits on, race across a field, roll down a small hill, or just smash into each other. Dare to be a little silly when you host this party!

Rent a Pool

Did you know you can rent out someone’s pool for the afternoon? There’s a new company called Swimply where you can search for private pools in your area to rent. It’s like Airbnb for swimming pools. I’ve looked into it and the rates are very reasonable. The one closest to me had a very nice seating area under a covered patio for entertaining in addition to the large pool, slide, and basketball hoop.

Backyard Cinema

Buy, rent, or borrow a movie projector to screen a special movie for your next party. You can use a fancy projection screen or DIY one by hanging up a white sheet. Set out lawn chairs or blankets and offer your favorite movie concessions.

Sing Karaoke

Rent out a karaoke room for your next birthday party and let loose to your favorite music. The great thing about these karaoke rooms is that you aren’t singing in front of anybody except those in your party.

Silent Disco

Hire a private company to set everybody up with their own headphones to rock out at your own silent disco dance party. It’s a silent dance party for everyone except those wearing headphones. Those who participate will forget where they are and have the time of their lives dancing to the music.

Decades Party

Throw a ‘40s party. Or an ‘80s party. Or let your guests choose which decade they’d like to dress up as. Have them each bring a fun drink or dessert corresponding to their decade. Get the playlist ready for the awesome night ahead!

Murder Mystery Party

Come together for a night of questions, clues, accusations, and murder! Crack the case while in character, as everyone is set up with a persona and backstory. You can buy a boxed set or find kits to purchase for online download, then just follow directions for a unique and mysterious evening.

Chili Cook-Off

There are so many different types of chili and everybody has their own special recipes. Chili cook-offs are always great as you get to try and vote on each person’s creation. Offer prizes for the most unique, best spicy, best white chili, etc.

Axe Throwing

Axe Throwing is all the rage right now. If you want to try for the bullseye, search for a location near you. They are a great venue for a birthday party.

Wine Tasting

Have a relaxing day out at your local vineyard tasting wine and enjoying live music. Each winery has a different vibe, depending on what you’re looking for. Some may even offer a private tasting room for your group.

Enjoy live music at a brewery, winery, or another venue nearby. Just search for the type of music you’re looking for in local events and head out to support local musicians.

Book a bay or two for a fun night of golf for up to six guests per bay. Topgolf is fun for everyone, even those who have never played golf before. Advance reservations are always encouraged to ensure your spot. If you don’t reserve a bay, you can always put your name on the waitlist and head to the bar to hang out while you wait.

See a Concert

Sing and dance your heart out at a concert for your birthday. Whether you feel like being in the heart of things on the floor or up high in a VIP suite, concerts are a great place to let loose and rock out to celebrate your special day.

Invite a local food truck to join your party! There are taco trucks, bagel trucks, Cajun trucks, and burger trucks. You can find any kind of cuisine you’re looking for. It’s a fun way to serve dinner and you may get to have input on the menu for the day. They usually bring all of the utensils, napkins, and plates you need. All you have to provide is seating and a trash bin.

Sporting Event

Have friends meet you out at a soccer game or book a VIP suite at a basketball game. Sit on the lawn watching baseball or cheer on roller derby girls from the sidelines. You might even make it onto the jumbotron if you’re acting crazy enough!

Book a group mani-pedi session at your local salon. If enough advanced notice is given, they may have enough staff to have everybody’s done around the same time. Many salons offer champagne for purchase for special events.

Flower Party

Find a local florist that offers floral arranging parties. Local florists may provide parties where you can choose your flowers and hosts will then help you arrange them so they are perfect for your space.

Selfie Spots

Get all glitzed up and make a reservation to have a photo shoot among the most unique backdrops at selfie spots. Venues such as Selfie Wrld have a number of unique sets and backdrops to take wild, funny, and even frame-worthy photos. They have special selfie stands and white lights that help make taking the perfect photos fun and easy.

Rent Out a Theater

Imagine having a whole theater to yourself. You can now rent out an entire theater for just you and your friends. Feel free to chat, pass popcorn, shout out the lines you know, and change seats. You won’t have to worry about bothering other patrons!

Comedy Show

Comedy shows always make for a great night out. Enjoy some laughs together with famous comedians or discover new up-and-coming talent. Book seats together or a VIP table if it’s offered at your local venue.

Chocolate Tasting

Head out for a night of chocolate tasting for your birthday! Find a shop that has wines to pair with the chocolates or lets you go behind the scenes to see chocolate-making in action. You will probably learn a lot about chocolate!

Escape Room

If you love adventure, Escape Rooms are an exciting evening activity for a group. Book the whole time slot for your party or join in with other groups to problem-solve your way through various scenarios.

Cooking Class

Group cooking classes are a fun outing idea for the foodie in your life. Sur la Table offers evening classes in their large kitchens. Schedule your party there and learn something new for your birthday!

Chill in an Igloo

Celebrate in an igloo near you for a unique night out. Some igloos in public areas are first come, first serve, so you might have to wait. Or reserve a heated igloo at a local restaurant. They usually seat about 6-8 people and come with a dedicated server.

Massages are more appreciated and more necessary the older you get and spa days are a wonderful way to spend your special day. Book ahead to get your group in at the same time so you can enjoy the relaxation room together before your services.

Hit the Beach

Have a chill day at the beach where guests can come and go throughout the day. Set up sand volleyball, cornhole, and a tent for food and drinks. This is one of the more low-stress and low-key parties for adults!

Adults deserve amazing birthday parties too! Do it for your mental health! Your friends need a reason to go out too, trust me.

Go fancy or casual and be active or relaxed. With a little bit of advance planning, you can put together a perfect party to celebrate another trip around the sun.

Looking for some party venues specific to Indianapolis? We have you covered!

The post 50 Birthday Parties for Adults: Unique Celebrations You Can Host Anywhere appeared first on Indy with Kids .

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Fun Dinner Party Themes to Level Up Your Next Event (or Holiday)

Forget the everyday dishes and get creative with these thematic menus, dinner party decor, and DIY ideas.

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The holidays and entertaining go hand in hand, but it doesn't have to be the holidays to throw a dinner party or get creative with it. Whether you're throwing a formal dinner party or doing some casual entertaining, dinner parties are a fun way to bring people together.

If you need a little inspiration, these creative starting points will guide you to the perfect dinner theme idea—there are even some specific themes (and recipes!) in each category that you can run with for your own culinary adventure.

Dinner Party Themes Ideas

If you're getting ready to host friends and family for a dinner party, picking a theme might feel overwhelming. First, consider your surroundings or situation. Be sure to consider factors like the occasion, time of year, weather, and location when deciding on a theme. With this in mind, here are some dinner party themes to explore.

Pick Destinations Around the Globe

Pick a favorite vacation destination (or something from your travel bucket list), research a menu from there (don't forget dessert!), and perhaps go a little further by playing music or watching movies from that country.

Don't be afraid to travel to more than one destination either; you can offer a trip around Asia with a dish from each destination, or opt to serve different cultures' versions of dumplings as appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Mexican food with mojitos
• Indian curry or a vegetarian masala
• Fish and chips and English trifle
• Italian lasagnas (and affogato!)
• Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches
• French crepes and clafoutis
• Greek-style orzo and shrimp with avgolemono soup
• Japanese okonomiyaki and udon
• Korean bibimbap and bulgogi with cucumber kimchi salad
• Middle Eastern falafel and hummus
• Chinese dumplings and fried rice

Want to keep it all American? Consider choosing delicacies from places you've visited or lived. Here are a few suggestions:

• New Orleans Cajun or Creole fare
• Chicago-style deep-dish pizza
• New York cheesecake
• New England lobster rolls
• Tex-Mex fajitas and enchiladas

Set Up a DIY Food Party

If you're looking for a fun dinner theme idea that's low-effort, high reward, choose a menu theme that's really interactive. Setting up DIY food bars may require a bit of prep and presentation, but your guests (or your family) will take it from there to build customized creations.

Bonus: This is an excellent option when your fellow diners have dietary restrictions or are simply picky eaters, as they can skip over any ingredients that don't work for them. Some make-your-own-dinner theme inspiration includes:

• Tacos , burritos, or nachos
• Mac-and-cheese (with fun toppings!)

You might even choose to turn your next dinner into a Chopped -style competition, where you give a set secret ingredient, open access to the kitchen or DIY bar, and offer a time limit to produce something awesome.

Think Outside the Dinner Box

Sometimes, the best dinner isn't actually dinner. Consider dining options that aren't usually served in the evening (or as a full meal). Some options to consider include:

• Breakfast for dinner (think egg dishes or waffles)
• Charcuterie boards (add enough veggies and fruit alongside the meat and cheese, and it's a meal)
• Hors d'oeuvres as a meal

You can also look for ways to minimize (or maximize!) your menu to have a little fun with your dinner. Consider serving all miniaturized foods (think sliders, French onion soup bites , mini hot dogs, and mini desserts ) or supersize (giant cookie for dessert).

Consider Time Travel

Take a trip back in time, whether you opt for retro favorites from a bygone era. Or maybe you want to take it way back to medieval times or the Victorian era. Dinner parties like this are even better if costumes are involved—think disco costumes and a menu with a 1970s vibe. A few dinner menu theme ideas include:

• 1970s style with cheese fondue , old-school casseroles, and a 1970s-style icebox cake
• Medieval with meat pies, hearty stews, and desserts with fruit and honey
• 1920s with deviled eggs (invented in the 1920s), tea sandwiches, canapés, and oysters with Roaring '20s cocktails like Tom Collins and French 75

Celebrate Minor Holidays

Obviously, there are the big holidays like Thanksgiving, New Year's, and the 4th of July. If your dinner party falls around the holidays, it might be fun to go with a holiday theme. But honestly, any day can be a celebration. Get inspiration from those fun food holidays like Ice Cream Day on July 16th, or National Hamburger Day on May 28th. Celebrate minor holidays (like creating a red, white, and blue something for Flag Day on June 14th). You can even make up your own holiday and make a menu perfect for it.

Be mindful of the presentation. The presentation of your dishes (and decor) can really enhance the guest experience—and it's half the fun for a holiday-themed dinner party.

Get Pop Culture Inspired

If you're plotting dinner party associated with a binge watch or movie marathon, take inspiration from what you're showing. Your book club may also love having a book-inspired menu. (I recently hosted my book club's discussion of Lessons in Chemistry, and I opted for a chicken pot pie and brownies , as they were featured in key plot points in the book.)

Or maybe you'll want to find a theme with a twist, like only serving TikTok famous recipes. (A dinner party is the perfect opportunity to revisit the viral baked feta pasta, cowboy caviar, upside-down puff pastry, or whatever TikTokers dream up next.)

Stick to the Season

Consider having a seasonal theme for your next dinner party (or do a dinner party every season!). A season theme offers you the opportunity to celebrate the flavors of the season with the freshest ingredients.

For instance, a summer dinner party might be a picnic theme with refreshing cocktails, barbecue, and vibrant salads with ripe tomatoes or even strawberries. Incorporating seasonal elements into the decor, like fresh flowers (perhaps with edible flowers as well!) for the spring or warm vanilla candles in the winter, adds to the memorable experience for guests.

The seasons don't have to do with the weather either; you can also consider sports seasons. For example, if it's football season and you're gathering for or before a game, a tailgating theme may also make sense for you.

Opt for creative menus, decorations, and mood music to match. Perhaps even what you wear can be part of the whole experience.

Pick a Color

A color dinner party theme might sound silly, but it can be lot of fun to get creative with different foods of the same color. For example, you might have a pink-themed dinner party to celebrate the birthday of your friend who loves the color pink.

For a pink-themed dinner party, you might have smoked salmon canapés or pink radish soup. A purple theme might incorporate veggies like graffiti cauliflower, beets, purple potatoes, or fruits like grapes, plums, blackberries, and elderberries.

For a color-themed party, experiment with food coloring. Make the cake for dessert blue. Top the brownies with green icing. Use red sprinkles on the ice cream. Whatever color you choose, there are tons of ways to get creative with adding it to your dishes.

Entertaining Preparation Tips

There are plenty of ways to make any dinner—regardless of the theme you choose—more fun. Here are some tips to keep in mind when thinking about your dinner party menu.

• Offer a range of options to suit all dietary restrictions. For example, you might include vegetarian or gluten-free options depending on your guests. Ask your guests if they have any allergies and label any dishes that contain allergens like eggs, nuts, shell fish, and other common kinds.
• Aim for a balanced meal. Your dinner party menu should include a variety of flavors and textures to create an exciting and satisfying experience for your guests. This might also mean including drinks that pair well with each dish.
• Choose dishes that you can prepare in advance. If that's not possible, at the very least, choose dishes that require minimal last-minute preparation. This way, you can spend more time enjoying the meal with your guests (and entertaining them) than cooking during the event.

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It’s Bachelorette Trip Season — Here’s What One Travel Writer Is Packing for Her Next Girls’ Getaway

Best of all, everything is under $100.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Wedding season is in full swing, which means it’s also time for bachelorette parties to kick off (often to farther-flung destinations than ever). And later this month, I’m looking forward to attending one of these celebrations, in Saratoga Springs. As a travel writer, I’ve developed a foolproof packing list for my trips, including Norway in the near future, but I made a few adjustments to the formula to account for the busy schedule and expectations that come with girls’ weekend getaways like this.

I will always prioritize comfort when it comes to traveling, but that doesn’t mean I’m willing to let my style fall to the wayside. So, I’ve rounded up the 11 things that have already earned their spot in my weekender bag for a bachelorette trip this spring — and they’re sure to accompany me on the other celebrations I have on the calendar for the coming months. From the perfect flowy maxi dress from Madewell to a portable steamer to keep my clothing looking fresh, these are the under-$100 essentials you’ll also want to pack when you’re off to celebrate your favorite bride.

Madewell Lightestspun Cover-Up Maxi Shirtdress

The agenda for the bachelorette party that I’m attending outlines backyard games and a vineyard tour, so I’ve been searching for an outfit that will fit both occasions while keeping me comfortable throughout it all. This breezy dress from Madewell will give me plenty of freedom to move around unencumbered by too-tight material while aesthetically, it’s practically made to be worn to a wine tasting. Not to mention, the best-selling maxi dress is even on sale right now, bringing the price down to $70.

Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier

After a big day and night of festivities, I certainly won’t be looking forward to the early morning drive home. So, these best-selling Liquid I.V. sticks will be one of the first additions to my bag for the weekend, ensuring that I’m feeling my best even after the celebrations. Each bag contains 16 packable sticks that can easily be thrown into a purse for electrolytes on the go, and they’re packed with vitamins to restore my body before returning to work on Monday.

Everlane The Linen Easy Pant

These breezy linen pants from Everlane are a must-have addition to my suitcase for this trip — especially considering they’re made with a comfy elastic waistband that will never dig into my skin. The straight-leg fit makes them easy to dress up with heels or down with sneakers (as I’ll be doing for the car ride), and the 100 percent linen formulation ensures these pants will maintain a valuable spot in my wardrobe for years to come thanks to their high-quality design.

HiLife Steamer for Clothes

If I’m going to be packing any wrinkle-prone fabrics for this trip (linen, I’m looking at you), then this portable steamer is essential to bring along — and fortunately, it’s currently double discounted at Amazon thanks to a special on-site coupon that you can clip at checkout. The compact device is highly effective at quickly removing wrinkles and creases from clothing, and I’m sure it’s going to be a hit amongst the other bachelorette trip-goers.

Free People Idle Hands Sling Bag

Free People

This spacious sling bag is my favorite way to add a pop of color to any outfit, making it one of the most versatile options I could pack for this trip — not to mention it’s wildly spacious. The lengthy strap makes it wearable as both a crossbody and shoulder bag which will be perfect for when I want to keep my hands free during the vineyard tour. Plus, it’ll instantly elevate anything it’s worn with, from the Madewell dress to a simple pair of black trousers and a tee. And when it’s time to hit the town for a night out, I’ll have plenty of room to store my essentials (plus some Liquid I.V. )

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Insulated Tumbler

Bachelorette trips are notorious for the hangovers they invoke, and as a person who takes their hydration goals very seriously, this Stanley tumbler will be my favorite companion for the weekend. The tapered design ensures that this 40-ounce container will still easily fit into the cupholder of any car, while the stainless steel exterior promises to keep my water nice and cold for hours on end. I opted for this stunning yellow shade that’s perfect for spring, but the top-rated tumbler is also available in 41 other bright colors.

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneakers

Since this bachelorette trip only lasts for three days, I am making a concerted effort to bring along only two pairs of shoes — which is quite a daunting task for an overpacker like myself. However, a comfy pair of white sneakers is one of the most versatile shoes to have at the ready for any adventure, and I’ve been eyeing the Time Off Sneakers from Dr. Scholl’s as my top choice. They’re stylish enough to pair with anything from dresses to jeans to trousers; plus, I’ll even be able to wear them during the bar crawl that we have planned without worrying about ruining my outfit. The extra arch support is just icing on the cake.

Madewell Oversized Trucker Jean Jacket

When carrying the festivities from day to night, it’s essential to be prepared with a cozy (and stylish) top layer, and this oversized jean jacket from Madewell is basically made for the job. Currently on major sale for as little as $70 right now, this 100 percent cotton jacket is an effortlessly cool addition to any packing list — and exactly the coat I’ve been looking for to rock during my spring travels. It features deep interior pockets that are reliable enough to hold onto my phone or extra cash while I’m out on the dance floor, and the versatile design promises to blend seamlessly into my existing wardrobe.

Etronik Travel Weekender Bag

Weekend trips are often better served with a duffel bag than a rolling suitcase, and I’ve had my eye on this best-seller from Etronik for months now, largely due to the separate shoe compartment at the base of the bag. Similar in design to the viral Béis weekender , this tote offers ample space for all of my bachelorette trip needs, and it even comes in 32 gorgeous colors and patterns to add some personality into my travel gear. And with how spacious the base of the bag is, I’m taking that as a sign to bring along more than the two pairs of shoes I have allotted for this trip. 

Bombas Women’s Friday Slide

After a long weekend of celebrating, I plan on prioritizing maximum comfort on my way home from the event, and these simple slides from Bombas are guaranteed to make the cut for my packing list. The incredibly lightweight design means they won’t weigh me down or take up excess space in my bag when I’m not wearing them, and their style is even sleek enough that I can wear them for a day of activities if the weather is warmer than expected. And I can confirm, the EVA material is ultra-comfy to wear — even straight out of the box. To add to my comfy slides collection, I’ve also been eyeing the Birkenstock Arizona EVA sandals , as well as the ultra-cushy Restfeel Women’s Slides from Lululemon.

Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40

The last thing I plan on doing during this bachelorette party is getting a sunburn, and the Supergoop! Glowscreen is my favorite way to protect my complexion, all while acting as a luminescent base for my makeup. Alongside SPF 40, this formula also contains skin-friendly ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin B5 which will all bring my tired skin back to life after a weekend of activities. From the vineyard to a day spent playing party games outside, this sunscreen will remain a mainstay in my skincare routine during the trip.

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11 Unexpected Destinations for a Bachelor or Bachelorette Party

By Yulia Denisyuk

Planning a bachelor or bachelorette party can be a daunting task. While there’s always a party bus to somewhere (usually a bar or club in Las Vegas , New Orleans , or Nashville ), the road less traveled promises far greater adventure . From a yoga haven in Jamaica to a sleepover in the Arabian desert, these intimate and creative getaways will delight every stripe of bride- or groom-to-be.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Vineyard hop in Portugal

In Alentejo, the hot and dry wine region southeast of Lisbon, vintners are tapping into a global revival of an ancient technique: fermenting wines in clay vessels, or talhas . Start the party at Herdade do Rocim , a 247-acre wine and olive estate, before making your way to Cartuxa Winery , in a building founded by Jesuits, and nearby José de Sousa , a vineyard with an exceptional collection of seven-foot-tall talhas.

Hike the Isle of Skye

The patchwork terrain of Skye—with its jagged peaks, imposing sea cliffs, and medley of moors and lochs—is best explored in the company of locals. Wilderness Scotland’s seven-day itineraries (from $2,359 per person) are led by “wilderness therapists” and cover meals, lodging, and transport. (Note: All-female hiking groups with female guides are available.) The trekking isn’t hard, but it may give some hikers vertigo. To wit: the climb up dizzying Quiraing, a 1,781-foot-high landslip.

Mountain bike through Mayan villages

The customizable itineraries from Old Town Outfitters , an adventure travel operator in Antigua, Guatemala, lead guests to Indigenous markets and remote pueblos. The three-day Lake Atitlán Traverse tour (from $475 per person) climbs high into the 12th-century Iximche town of Patzún, descends into a steep ravine known as the matagringo ("gringo killer”), and culminates at the rim of a volcanic caldera. A stay at La Casa del Mundo , a cliffside eco-hotel, is included.

Go fishing in Savannah

With the Atlantic Ocean at its doorstep, getting on the water from downtown Savannah is a breeze. Charter a private boat from Tybee Island’s Reel Em’ N (starting at $775), where Captain Derek Brown has been fishing for grouper, sea bass, and shark for the past 15 years. (He also runs dolphin-watching tours, if that’s more your speed.) Post-fishing, take full advantage of the city’s open-container laws aboard Savannah Slow Ride ’s 15-passenger pub crawl pedal bikes—then sleep it off in a two-level suite at the riverfront Olde Harbour Inn (rooms from $201).

María Casbas

Jessica Chapel

Madison Flager

Book a yoga retreat in Jamaica

Nestled in the heart of an authentic farming and fishing community on rugged Treasure Beach in southern Jamaica, Jake’s Hotel (rooms from $115) organizes bespoke yoga retreats in an open-air studio overlooking the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Local farm tours, jerk seasoning cooking lessons, and a visit to the Appleton Rum tasting room round out the bonding experiences for celebrants.

Sleep under the stars in the Arabian desert

A 90-minute drive from the glass-and-chrome-laden city of Abu Dhabi takes you to Qasr al Sarab (rooms from $374), a secluded Anantara resort in the world’s largest sand desert, a.k.a. The Empty Quarter. Toast the sunset from a room with a private terrace or travel by camelback to Camp Nujum , where guests frolic among the sand dunes by day (fat biking, archery, and sandboarding are all on the agenda) and spend their nights in traditional Bedouin tents.

Follow your gut to British Columbia

Vancouver Island’s remote fishing village of Tofino is Western Canada’s top boat-to-table destination. Dig into grilled sablefish at upscale restaurant The Pointe or slurp freshly harvested oysters at SoBo , helmed by award-winning chef Lisa Ahier, before ending the night with a kelp-infused stout at Tofino Brewing Company . For the ultimate epicurean splurge, Tofino Food Tours will fly you aboard a seaplane to a private picnic location with a spread supplied by the finest local eateries.

Head west on Route 66

EagleRider Rentals & Tours’ nine-day guided motorcycle adventure (from $2,880 per person) starts in Albuquerque; rolls through iconic Western landmarks like the Petrified Forest National Park, Grand Canyon , and Hoover Dam; and concludes at the Santa Monica Pier in Southern California. Ride with strangers (16 bikes max) or opt for a private guided trip. Either way, you supply the motorcycle license; EagleRider covers the bikes, guides, lodging, park admissions, and support vehicle.

Catch a world-class surf break in Nicaragua

With more than 300 days of offshore winds, Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast is a prime surfing spot. Check in to the recently opened Aurea eco-resort, located within a private golf and beach community; the Eucalypto villa, with views of the nearby eucalyptus forest, is great for groups because it fits up to 14 guests. In addition to surfing lessons, Aurea can arrange sailing, paddle boarding, and horseback riding excursions, plus visits with the local community.

Eat hyperlocal in upstate New York

The husband-and-wife team behind Table To Farm Tours in Roxbury curates half-day experiences at the Catskills’ best creameries, farms, and distilleries. The Delicious Delaware County itinerary , for example, includes lunch, a boozy cocktail, and tastes of artisanal organic kimchi, award-winning cheese, and hard cider apples (from $95 per adult, including transportation from Roxbury). Make a night—or a long weekend—of it by staying at The Chatwal Lodge in Bethel, opening this spring; our top pick for intimate groups is the two-bedroom treehouse lofted 25 feet above the ground.

Visit the Maghreb of California

The Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs is a Moroccan-inspired retreat with daily tea service and a Fez-worthy courtyard (rooms from $422). In the 1920s, painter Gordon Coutts modeled the villa after his beloved Tangier—so inspired was he by the San Jacinto mountains and scrubby desert terrain. Although it feels isolated, this scenic hideaway is just a short walk to both the hiking trails of Tahquitz Canyon and hip rooftop lounges like downtown’s boho-chic Sugar High .

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20 Unique Bachelorette Party Destinations Around the World

Unparalleled nightlife, top-rated restaurants and tropical weather are just a few reasons why these cities should be on top of your list.

When it comes to planning an unforgettable weekend for the bride-to-be, step one is settling on the perfect bachelorette party destination.

Though it can be tricky to know where to start — especially if no city is off-limits — your final destination should reflect the bride as well as her personality and interests. Begin by narrowing down your options: Would your bachelorette prefer to relax by the pool in a warm-weather locale? Soak up some adventure in the great outdoors? Mix it up with fine dining, culture, shopping and partying in a big city?

Miami, Florida

If there’s one city that knows how to have a good time, it’s Miami. Spend your days lounging in the sun, sipping a mojito and swimming in the pristine waters of Miami Beach. Once the sun sets head to South Beach for dinner with a Latin twist and a bustling party scene that will have you dancing all night long. Beautiful oceanfront views, good weather and affordable flights are just a few reasons why our editors think Miami should be at the very top of your destination list. RELATED: 10 Best Hotels in Miami, According to Experts

Nashville, Tennessee

Explore Nashville

We love Nashville’s energy, cuisine (did someone say BBQ?) and live music that draws crowds year-round. Grab your cowboy boots and hats and head to the nearest honky-tonk. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider surprising the bride by renting a party tractor, fire engine or bus that will take you around town (trust us, she'll love it). Our pros recommend staying at the Holston House for a boutique hotel experience that's walking distance from the popular bars on Broadway.

Tulum, Mexico

Explore Tulum

Our editors love Tulum for its impressive culinary scene, lively nightlife and boutique shopping. Not only are there miles of unspoiled beach but you’ll find tons of stunning hotels and restaurants. Plus, you have hundreds of options for excursions in the area, from snorkeling to visiting to a local cenote, checking out Mayan ruins and more.

For closer proximity to the Cancun airport and access to even more bars and restaurants, consider staying a bit further north in Playa del Carmen . Our editors love the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort for its beachfront views and stunning infinity pools that line the property.

Napa Valley, California

Explore Napa

Spend a weekend with your girlfriends sipping some of the best wine California has to offer. From world-class wineries to adorable boutiques, luxurious hotels and delicious restaurants, it'll be impossible to have a bad time. To explore everything the Valley has to offer (including its picturesque views), hop on the Napa Valley Wine Train by day and spend chilly nights cozying up by the campfire. Our editors rave about the Montage Healdsburg if you're looking for something extra luxurious; we also like the Archer Hotel Napa if you’re looking to stay close to restaurants and bars in downtown Napa.

New York, NY

Explore NYC

“This city is made for big, bold bashes,” shares GH Institute General Manager Laurie Jennings . After all, it is the city that never sleeps, and there’s an activity or attraction for every personality. “See a Broadway show and shop ‘til you drop. Eat at a classic like Balthazar or Minetta Tavern or splurge at the Polo Bar ,” she advises. You can also check out an exhibit at the Met, stroll around Central Park, get cocktails at a rooftop bar with a view and much more.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Explore Reykjavik

For those looking for a bit of adventure, a quick flight to Reykjavik, Iceland from NYC takes about six hours andis well worth it for the jaw-dropping natural wonders you’ll find when you land, like fjords, glaciers and (if you're lucky) the Northern Lights. Just make sure to dedicate a day to the Blue Lagoon , a geothermal spa with hot pools, where you can relax before having to head back home.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Explore Las Vegas

No bachelorette party destination list is complete without Las Vegas. Whether you love or hate Sin City, there’s no denying that the Strip is a magnet for good times, 24/7. Though you could spend your nights gambling, don’t forget to check out Vegas’s thousands of amazing restaurants hidden inside those luxe resorts. Surprise the bride with tickets to Magic Mike or another show, and dance the night away at one of Vegas’s many nightclubs.

RELATED: 11 Best Hotels in Vegas, According to Experts

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explore San Juan

Though you won't need a passport to visit Puerto Rico as a U.S. citizen, it has its own distinct culture and energy that we can't get enough of. Devote some time to exploring colorful and cheerful Old Town and don't miss the stunning views from El Morro Castle. Beach bums will find solace in Condado Beach's crystal water, whereas party animals will be up until the early hours at La Placita. We recommend grabbing a cocktail at La Factoria and snagging a reservation at Santaella for dinner. Stay at the Caribe Hilton for access to a picturesque private beach.

Explore London

With direct flights from most major U.S. international airports, you'll be in London in no time. While it may not be the most traditional bachelorette destination, we love that it has something to offer everyone.

You can visit landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace and there's no limit of museums, restaurants and shops to keep you occupied for a few days. Stay around Covent Garden if you're looking for a central location and make sure to check out some of the city's famous markets: Portobello Road Market, Borough Market, Camden Market and more.

Austin, Texas

Explore Austin

This city has gotten a lot of attention in recent years, and it's not just because of the popular South by Southwest festival. Austin attracts crowds for its rich blend of culture, food, live music and nightlife. Though it's all too easy to get sucked into the bar scene on Sixth Street, make sure to explore Austin's outdoor scene as well, which can include spending the day on Lady Bird Lake or cooling down at Barton Springs Pool.

Chicago, Illinois

Explore Chicago

Chicago lives up to the hype when it comes to parties. Head to the Windy City for an action-packed weekend filled with mouth-watering deep-dish pizza, shopping and a concert or game at Chicago Stadium. If you're coming in the summer months, consider taking a Chicago River Cruise so you can see the city's stunning architecture from the water. Make sure to bike through Lincoln Park and spend some time relaxing on Chicago's beaches (the water isn't that cold, we promise!). In the evening, check out a comedy show or see some jazz at an iconic venue.

RELATED: 13 Best Chicago Hotels, According to Experts

Park City, Utah

Explore Park City

Ski bunnies will love the idea of a weekend on the slopes, and there's no better destination to convene than Park City. With direct flights to Salt Lake City from all over the U.S., Park City is just a quick drive away and is home to one of our favorite ski resorts in the U.S.

You'll find tons of shops, restaurants and bars along Main Street, including our fave, No Name Saloon . As for the ski resort, which is the largest in the country, you'll have access to more than 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. Make sure to stop at Tombstone BBQ for lunch on a bluebird day.

Key West, Florida

Explore Key West

Shop, drink and, most importantly, relax for a few days in Key West, the southernmost tip of Florida and the U.S. You'll find plenty of attractions on Duval Street day and night. While Key West beaches aren't quite as famous as those in other coastal Florida towns, a sunset sail or snorkel trip won't disappoint. Head to happy hour at Mallory Square to catch the sunset and don't forget to try some local key lime pie for dessert.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Explore New Orleans

Live music and New Orleans are pretty much synonymous. Bring your jazz-loving bride to Bourbon Street for a good time (grab her a Hurricane first!), or head to the calmer Frenchmen Street for some local gems. You'll find no shortage of restaurants, galleries and shops in the adorable French Quarter. And no visit to NOLA would be complete without a stop at Cafe du Monde for some hot coffee and beignets (they're worth the hype, trust us)!

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Explore Amsterdam

Go big, or go home. If a trip to Europe is on your mind, consider Amsterdam for your bachelorette weekend. Not only is this beautiful city lined by canals, bridges and bikes, but there's tons of history and culture at your fingertips. Spend your days exploring some of Amsterdam's many museums, go shopping and try all the Dutch food there is (don't leave without tasting an infamous stroopwafel — you won't regret it).

Denver, Colorado

Explore Denver

Denver is like paradise for the nature enthusiast. Whether you stay downtown or rent an Airbnb closer to the Rocky Mountains, this easygoing city is just a quick drive away from some of the most spectacular hiking you'll find in the country (as well as whitewater rafting, biking and more).

You'll find top-notch breweries and restaurants scattered throughout town, and keep in mind that during winter months you can hit the slopes with most major ski resorts like Vail and Breckenridge a two or three-hour drive away.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Explore Cabo San Lucas

If you've never been to the Baja side of Mexico, now's your chance. Cabo draws tourists all year long for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, beautiful scenery and local cuisine. Go snorkeling during the day and check out the town's bustling nightlife by dark. Consider booking the bride a boat party or booze cruise for a weekend to remember.

Negril, Jamaica

Explore Negril

Jamaica's immaculate turquoise beaches are enough to convince anyone to take a few days off and hop on a plane toward the Caribbean sun. "Negril is a draw for its spectacular cliffside scenery and A+ beaches," says Jennings, who recommends the adult-only Rockhouse Hotel , where you can lounge by the pool, swim in the beautiful waters and sleep in their magical cabanas. Plus, wherever you go in Negril rest assured that you'll get to enjoy unmatched Jamaican food and culture that is unlike anywhere else in the world.

San Diego, California

Explore San Diego

Soak up some sunshine in sunny, laid-back San Diego, known for its prime weather year-round. Whether you want to relax by the beach or go surfing, there's tons to do. Make sure to take a stroll around La Jolla and some of its art galleries, high-end shops and waterfront restaurants. Spend a day exploring Coronado beach (consider renting bikes!) and don't forget to check out historic Old Town, Balboa Park and Little Italy for dinner.

Charleston, South Carolina

Explore Charleston

This cute coastal town is all charm and southern hospitality. Head to the port city of Charleston in the spring before summer temperatures heat up, and enjoy its quintessential architecture, beautiful historic homes, gardens and boutique shops. For some relaxation, you can even hop over to one of several white sand beaches in the area, like Kiawah Island, or spend a day sailing.

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The Best Golf Bachelor Party Locations

• Allyson writes articles for The Knot specializing in registries, wedding planning, and travel.
• She’s written articles on such topics as best bachelorette and bachelor party destinations, top bridal shower games, and registry gifts.
• Allyson has also written for WeddingWire, Brides.com, Brit + Co., and Bustle.

Looking to get away with guys for a weekend on the fairways? These eight bachelor party destinations are known for their golf courses. Bring your best game, because a weekend spent on these links will be one to remember.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Play your best up and down the atlantic coast before a night out on the beach.

Thanks to its year-round warm weather, Fort Lauderdale is made for golfing, with more than 40 courses across the beach city (both public and private) to practice your long and short game. Among the relatively affordable places to golf, you'll find options like the Colony West Country Club, consistently named one of the top 50 public courses in the U.S. Learn more about planning a Fort Lauderdale bachelor party itinerary .

Palm Springs, California

300 days of sunshine a year mean no bad time to play 18.

There are more than 100 golf courses in and around Palm Springs , and they're all in great condition thanks to the year-round warm desert weather. You'll have your pick of courses here, including two at Desert Willow Golf Course (voted #1 by Desert Golf Magazine three years in a row), Escena Golf Club for desert views and a championship course or the Petet Dye course at the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, a sprawling 360-acre property.

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

A golfer's paradise one hour outside of charleston.

Whether you choose to spend the whole weekend golfing on Kiawah Island or just make a day trip of this golfer's treasure from the Southern Charm city is up to you. But golfer's shouldn't overlook Kiawah for a golf-focused bachelor party. Courses throughout the island have hosted numerous world-class golf events, from the historic 1991 Ryder Cup to the 2021 PGA Tournament. There are a slew of public courses to play here, including "America's Toughest Course", The Ocean Course; Cougar Point built around tidal creeks and marshes; and Turtle Point designed by Jack Nicklaus. And of course, after a day of play there's Charleston nearby for food and drinks. Check out our Charleston bachelor party itinerary here .

Las Vegas, Nevada

Play 18 by day, party by night in the city that never sleeps.

While other things may come immediately to mind when you think of Vegas, Sin City also has a hot golf scene, and that isn't even counting the epic TopGolf facility found on The Strip. In and around Vegas you will find more than 70 courses within 40 minutes of downtown. Consider, among others, Chimera Golf Course for its desert landscape and views of the iconic Strip while you play 18.

Scottsdale, Arizona

A southwest town that's synonymous with golf.

If you're planning a bachelor party in Scottsdale , you're likely already thinking about golf. This desert hot spot boasts more than 200 golf courses from luxury clubs to public greens and has been dubbed "The World's Finest Golf Destination". Since you get year-round nice weather here, there's no bad time to plan your golf retreat to Scottsdale. Your biggest choice will be where to play. A few good options include the Estancia Club of rock-and-cactus landscapes and wild greens, the six Jack Nicklaus signature courses at the Desert Mountain Club or 36 quality holes at Troon North Golf Club.

San Diego, California

Laidback california vibes marry well with a plethora of links to choose from.

With many of its 72 courses boasting Pacific coast views, you will find courses both challenging and picturesque throughout San Diego. Of course, the cream of the crop is Torrey Pines, where you should play if you're with a skilled crew. But there are plenty of other championship-qualitty courses with similarly picturesque views to choose from if you want something more friendly (price and challenge wise) for a group of varied players.

Sea Island, Georgia

A coastal getaway offering a top-of-the-line golf resort.

Sea Island, Georgia, is home to one of the highest-ranking golf resorts in the U.S. Rated #4 out of 75, the Sea Island Golf Club has hosted PGA tours and boasts a stunning 18-hole championship course. You can spend your entire weekend at the resort, where you'll find world-class service and plenty of time to play the game, or make it a one-day trip as part of an extended weekend in Savannah, which is just under two hours north of Sea Island. (If Savannah is your base for the weekend, consider also tacking on a round of 18 at nearby Hilton Head Island). Find out more about planning a Savannah bachelor party itinerary here .

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

A tropical getaway that offers beach, fun and numerous ways to play 18.

Though smaller on the golf scene than many other destinations on this list, the 12 championship courses throughout Caboo are worth teeing up for. Not only will you find quality courses, but each offers a view that can't be beat, including the Pacific Ocean and some whale spotting (seasonally dependent). Plus, after your day of golf is over, you have a beach resort to unwind at, including swim up bars, sandy shores and quality dining options.

13 50th birthday trip ideas on a budget

So you’re turning fifty and don’t have a wad of cash to go to Dubai and live the life of a Sultan for a few days, or soirée in London or Paris? 

In short, you can’t travel to an expensive exotic destination for your 50th birthday .

Turns out you can celebrate your 50th birthday in places that don’t carry the exotic name or price tag, and you can still have an experience you’ll be bragging about until your 100 th birthday. 

That’s right, trips and experiences don’t have to be expensive to be fun or memorable . And you’ll still have bragging rights and a killer Instagram feed to prove it. 

I compiled this broad list of places and experiences that can fit a pretty tight budget . But note that I did not include travel expenses in any of these. 

If cash is an issue, consider one of the options closest to home, or watch for airfare sales so you can get there and still be within your budget. 

I calculated the budget by shooting for under $1000 for two nights for two people including an excursion and $100 a day for meals per person. 

Remember that prices change depending on season, dates, and time, so my estimates could be off by a few bucks.

Table of Contents

1.- swim with the manatees in crystal river, fl. .

• 2.- Ride on a hot air balloon over Napa Valley, CA

3.- Go mule riding in the Grand Canyon

4.- take a jazz tour of new orleans, 5.- swim with whale sharks in holbox, mexico, 6.- go deep sea fishing off the florida straits, 7.- hike a volcano in guatemala, 8.- visit machu picchu, 9.- go glamping in moab, 10.- a road trip through new mexico, 11.- catch a broadway show in new york city, 12.-  surf in san salvador, 13.-veg on the beach in punta cana .

A little over an hour north of Tampa on Florida’s West Coast is the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. 

There are a number of tour and boat companies for you to choose from so you can boat, swim or kayak out on the Crystal River with a guide and swim—and even touch—the manatees . 

The cost is reasonable at about $70 per person, usually with all the gear included. 

Places to stay are relatively inexpensive starting just over $100 a night for the Port Hotel and Marina , or splurge a bit and stay at the Plantation on Crystal River for $150 plus . 

You and your partner can have a nice weekend, manatees and all, for about $500.

2.- Ride on a hot air balloon over Napa Valley , CA

If you’re near the area, like say you’re visiting San Francisco, drive on up to Napa Valley and book a ride on a hot air balloon.

There are half a dozen hot air balloon companies to choose from and prices go around $300 per person for a one-hour ride. 

There are a number of great places to say. Yeah, many of them range above $200 a night. But depending on when you go the Hennessey House B&B lists rooms for as low as $114. 

And there are others like the Elm House Inn for about the same price. You and your partner could do this for just about $1000. 

Here is an awesome way to experience one of America’s most fantastic and impressive natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. 

Book a couple of nights at one of the Grand Canyon National Park Lodges and book a day-long guided mule ride along the rim or other parts of the canyon. 

The mule ride runs at about $160 per person. There are different lodges. Prices start at about $130 per night. 

So two nights and a mule ride will add up to just under $500 for a nice weekend getaway.

Not bad for the kind of experience you will remember and brag about for the rest of your life. 

Forget Mardi Gras. We have a great way of taking traditional festivities like St. Patrick’s, Cinco de Mayo, and Mardi Gras and turning them into a drunk fest. 

While I have nothing against Mardi Gras in New Orleans, or an occasional drunk fest, I prefer going into the city and staying at an iconic hotel like the Roosevelt New Orleans at about $220 a night or the Andrew Jackson Hotel at about $100 a night and then targeting specific restaurants and bars or concert halls like Preservation Hall where tickets start at around $50 for general admission. 

You could easily do a nice weekend trip for under $600 for two. 

Remember, New Orleans, is about the food, the music, and the vibe, “lese le bon temps roule!”

The airfare to Cancun is usually a good deal. That’s where you have to fly in to get to Holbox, a little island on the north of the Yucatan Peninsula and a short distance from Cancun. 

And unlike Cancun, it only has small boutique hotels and restaurants and a great beach. Take a transport to Chiquila and then take the ferry to the island. 

The bus is the cheapest mode of transportation at about $5-$10 each way. The ferry is $12. A shared van runs about $50 each way. 

Check into just about any hotel like Villas HM Paraiso del Mar for $150 and book a trip with one of the official tours to swim with the whale sharks that migrate through the area between June and September for about $200. 

The total cost for a weekend not including airfare to Cancun can run you just under $1000 for two people.   

Hemingway did it, so why not you?

While you don’t have to fish the Straits, and you don’t have to go all the way down to Key West, it would be nice if you made it there. 

Ideally, you could fly into Miami, rent a car and then drive the five or so hours down to Key West where hotels like the Seashell Motel run at around $100 plus, or the Garden House for just over $200. 

There are dozens of deep-sea fishing charters in the Keys. And as I said, you don’t have to go that far. 

Staying in Key Largo and chartering a fishing trip from there would be just as good. 

Cheap stays include the Drift Motel for around $150 a night and Atlantic Bay Resort.  

The whole point is to get out to where the water is a deep blue, dig the sun, the cold beer, and fish. 

The cost of a fishing charter can be anywhere from under $100 for group fishing to $1000 for a half day for you and your party. 

Shop around and find the best deal for your budget. With two nights at the hotel, food, and a fishing charter you can be looking at anywhere from $900 to $2000.

Guatemala can be a magical experience all on its own. 

But to hike the Fuego volcano which erupts every half an hour or so or the dormant Acatenango volcano for a hike and overnight camping, will make your trip unforgettable. 

This trip is quite inexpensive once you get to Guatemala. A shared van from the airport to Antigua is about $20. A private van can run you between $50-150. 

Antigua is a beautiful colonial city worth spending some time in. Check into a hotel like the El Carmen Hotel or the Hotel Eterna Primavera , both run about $100 a night. 

Then book your tour with OX Expeditions for either of the two volcanos. They can pick you up at your hotel. 

But from then on, that takes care of pretty much anything. 

The cost is under $100 for overnight, and it includes meals, overnight stay, guide, and even gear. 

Day hikes are about $70 and include lunch. So really, you could make this a longer trip and stay four or five nights and till come in under $1000.

This is on just about everyone’s bucket list. This unique and amazing ancient city of the Incas in Peru is a sight to behold. 

The trip starts once you fly into Cuzco and check into a hotel like the Hotel Costa del Sol Wyndham for about $60 a night. 

Get a feel for the altitude and the country, then book either a train ride in a panoramic car for about $200 per person, or hike along the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu which can take 3-5 days. 

You will need to book early and secure your permits for Machu Picchu (only 500 people a day are allowed into Machu Picchu). 

Work with a licensed tour guide like Incayni Peru Tours to arrange the hike and entrance to Machu Picchu which will cost about $700. 

This is for four days, meals and transportation included. 

So overall, you’re looking at six or seven days from the moment you get to Cuzco for around $1000, more if you take the train. 

Moab, Utah is a little town in the middle of a beautiful desert country. 

It is the getaway to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park , the largest national park in Utah.

The Moab area, including the national parks, is like an outdoorsman’s paradise.

Not only will you see some of the most incredible landscapes in the country, but there are also a ton of activities: horseback riding, four-wheeling, kayaking, rock climbing, fishing and so much more. 

You can participate in any of these activities because the lodging is so cheap. 

Imagine a homey cute teardrop trailer for a little over $100. 

You don’t have to haul it anywhere, they bring it to your campsite. So all you have to do is bring your food and hiking gear and you’re good to go. 

Or stay at the Red Moon Lodge for about the same price. Make it your base and explore from there. 

The price of your adventure is up to you and the activities you decide to do, anywhere from $400 for two nights to $1000 for a weekend packed with activities. Nature awaits!

They don’t call it the Land of Enchantment for nothing.

New Mexico has everything from White Sands National Park, Angel Fire, Sante Fe, Taos Pueblo, Bandelier National Monument, and so much more. 

To see it all, you need a car. And when you realize Route 66 cuts right through the state, you might want to drive a piece of that. 

Fly into Albuquerque and rent a car. White Sands is south. If you go, then consider going West to Silver City , an old mining town and gateway to Gila National Forest.  

But then you’ll have a long-ish drive north to Santa Fe, a must-visit. 

You can keep going north to Taos. A possible hotel is La Fonda de Taos right in the center of town for $150 or so. 

I recommend that you keep going on I-25 to Las Vegas, a place that feels suspended in time, and then take the long route through the mountains to Angel Fire to Taos. 

There is so much to see, the trip might blow your budget and you might have to be selective as to where to go. 

Santa Fe is expensive, but you can stay at the Historic Plaza Hotel right on the plaza in Las Vegas about 45 minutes away for about $100 a night.

New Mexico is about all the funky places in the small towns you drive through. On the way up to Santa Fe, for example, stop in Madrid, a little artsy town. 

Not counting the rent of a car, you could have a 3 or 4-day vacation for less than $1000.

They are not all that expensive. It depends on the Broadway Show , the time, and where you’ll sit. 

So plan on anywhere from $130-$300 per ticket or more if it’s a preferred show with orchestra seats. 

When you fly in you can take the train, bus, or shared shuttle into the city. It will be cheaper than a taxi or Lyft. 

The trick is not to hang out in touristy areas like Times Square and Columbus Circle. Hotels in New York, as in many dense and expensive cities are usually small anyway. 

You want a place to sleep, that’s all. There is the Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza for about $150 or the Westin New York at Times Square for about the same price. 

The thing is to be careful of where you eat. Pizza slices, falafel wraps, and hot dogs for lunch will help you keep your daily expenses down. 

Dinner at small restaurants in Little Italy, Chinatown, and Harlem will be cheaper and better than the big-name places. You can make this a nice weekend trip for under $1000.

Surfs up. And if you surf, then you’ve heard of Punta Roca in el Salvador where surfing is the best in Central and South America. 

Punta Roca is in La Libertad , about 25 miles from San Salvador and the airport.

Surf season is generally May through October, but you can still get some decent waves off-season.

It will also be less crowded off-season. Beach Break Hotel and Sports Bar is a good place at about $100 a night.

Or try Olas Permanente El Zonte for the same price. Private transfer from San Salvador airport to La Libertad runs about $60 each way. 

And if you don’t surf, check out Surf Strong , they have surf lessons for $50. So a decent weekend of surfing in el Salvador will run you about $600!

You work hard. You deserve a vacation without activities, or maybe easygoing activities. 

Maybe you just want to lay on a nice beach and sip piña coladas, eat luscious fresh seafood, and sleep under the palm trees. 

How about a little dancing in the evening and a dip in the pool, or riding a jet ski? Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is waiting for you. 

It has its own airport and you can usually find great deals on airfare, or complete packages. 

Most of the hotels in Punta Cana are all-inclusive. 

If you have kids, Club Med would be a nice choice. Prices fluctuate constantly, but slightly off-season you can have a two-night all-inclusive stay for under $1000. 

An adults-only option is the Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort for about $800 for two nights all-inclusive.

Please check the fine print before you book. These hotels are like a cruise . Many of the activities, higher-end restaurants, and top-shelf booze are an added cost. So your $1000 weekend getaway could add up to twice that.

Phillippe Diederich

Phillippe Diederich is a bilingual author and photographer born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Mexico City and Miami. His photography has appeared in The New York Times, Time magazine, U.S. News and World Report and other national publications. Phillippe's novels Sofrito and Playing for the Devil's Fire are both published by Cinco Puntos Press. He is the recipient of a PEN/Phyllis Naylor Working Writer Fellowship and the Editor-in-Chief of Viva Fifty!

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My Guide For Seniors » Information for Senior Citizens » Party Ideas for Seniors: 30 Fun and Engaging Ways to Celebrate Life

Party Ideas for Seniors: 30 Fun and Engaging Ways to Celebrate Life

Age is just a number, and senior citizens are no exception to this adage. In fact, they are often brimming with wisdom, life experiences, and youthful spirits that make them the perfect candidates for lively and enjoyable parties. Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, retirement party, or just a fun get-together for seniors, here are 30 creative and engaging party ideas to make their day unforgettable:

30 Creative and Engaging Party Ideas for Seniors

• Time Travel Party: Take seniors back in time to their favorite era, encouraging them to dress up in vintage clothes and reminisce about the good old days.
• Hawaiian Luau: Bring a taste of the tropics to your party with a Hawaiian-themed celebration, complete with leis, tropical decorations, and delicious island-inspired cuisine.
• Casino Night: Set up various card games and casino tables for a night of gambling fun. Use play money and award prizes to winners.
• Karaoke Extravaganza: Let the seniors unleash their inner rockstars with a karaoke party. Prepare a wide selection of songs, from classic hits to golden oldies.
• Movie Marathon: Arrange a movie screening of timeless classics or a selection of films from their youth, accompanied by popcorn and soda.
• Outdoor Picnic: Plan a relaxing picnic in a nearby park or garden, surrounded by nature and fresh air.
• Cruise-Themed Party: Transform the party venue into a cruise ship atmosphere, with nautical decorations and a buffet of delicious international dishes.
• Costume Party: Organize a costume party where seniors can dress up as their favorite historical figures, celebrities, or fictional characters.
• Game Show Extravaganza: Host a game show-style event with trivia, quizzes, and interactive challenges that showcase their knowledge and skills.
• Dance Party: Get the party grooving with a dance floor, lively music, and maybe even a dance instructor to teach some classic moves.
• Art and Craft Fair: Set up art and craft stations where seniors can unleash their creativity and create beautiful masterpieces.
• Memory Lane Exhibit: Arrange a gallery showcasing photos and memorabilia from their past, allowing them to share stories and relive cherished memories.
• Wine Tasting: Organize a wine tasting session with a selection of wines, cheese, and crackers, and educate the seniors about different grape varieties and regions.
• Comedy Night: Hire a comedian or arrange a talent show where seniors can showcase their humor and talents.
• Sports Day: Host a sports-themed party with mini-games like bean bag toss, bowling, or even a friendly round of golf.
• Gardening Party: For green-thumbed seniors, a gardening party can be a rewarding and therapeutic experience.
• Cultural Celebration: Explore the diversity of cultures with a themed celebration showcasing traditions, music, and cuisine from different countries.
• Technology Workshop: Organize a technology workshop to introduce seniors to modern gadgets and digital communication platforms.
• Mystery Dinner Party: Set up a mystery-themed dinner party, where seniors must work together to solve a fictional case.
• Nature Hike: Plan a leisurely nature hike in a scenic location, allowing seniors to connect with nature and each other.
• Book Club Gathering: Host a book club meeting where seniors can share their thoughts on a selected book or enjoy reading their favorite excerpts.
• Ice Cream Social: Nothing beats a classic ice cream social, complete with a variety of flavors and toppings to satisfy their sweet tooth.
• Science Fair: Engage curious minds with a science fair, showcasing various experiments and educational demonstrations.
• Baking Contest: Organize a baking competition where seniors can showcase their culinary skills and enjoy some delicious treats.
• Virtual Travel Experience: Take advantage of technology to virtually travel to far-off destinations and explore different cultures.
• Board Games Extravaganza: Set up a board game corner with a selection of classic and modern board games to engage the seniors in friendly competition.
• Spa Day: Treat the seniors to a pampering spa day with massages, facials, and relaxing activities.
• DIY Home Décor: Encourage creativity with a DIY home décor party, where seniors can create personalized crafts to adorn their living spaces.
• Pet Therapy Session: Arrange for a pet therapy session, where seniors can interact with friendly animals, promoting relaxation and joy.
• Celebrate “Senior” Achievements: Honor their life achievements with a ceremony that celebrates their contributions and accomplishments.

Remember, the key to a successful senior party is inclusivity, taking into account their interests, mobility, and comfort. With these 30 party ideas, you can create memorable and enjoyable experiences for the seniors in your life, filled with laughter, joy, and meaningful connections. Cheers to celebrating life at every age!

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St Petersburg Bachelorette Party Guide

November 16, 2022 4 min read

St Petersburg Florida Bachelorette Party:

St Pete is an amazing destination all around for a bachelorette weekend in the Tampa Bay area. Definitely St. Pete Beach!! Tons of bars, restaurants, beach activities and things to do. St Pete Beach is the absolute best and there are low key bars, night life, rooftop lounges, and other amazing things to do for everyone in your bachelorette party crew. St Pete is a g reat city for both beach and city vibes.

Getting around:

St pete is a pretty walk-able area and there are also scooters to get around town.  during your bachelorette party you can also use uber to get around the city of st petersburg., where to stay:.

There are alot of accommodation options in St petersburg to choose from for a bachelorette party. While in St. Pete you will find many hotels lined on the beach and airnb's with a range of prices to fit your budget.

• Beachcomber
• Sunrise Resort St. Pete Beach
• Postcard Inn

Other Accommodation options outside of St Pete: 

• Indian Rocks
• Anna Maria Island

Where To Eat: Brunch

• Birchwood Canopy : rooftop bar/restaurant
• Pier Teaki : A rooftop bar overlooking the bay with great views. 
• Tryst : fun cocktails.
• Wild Child : Bistro and cocktail bar
• The Mill : American food with a Southern spin.
• Social Roost : Tampa's best restaurant 2021. Upmarket cantina with outdoor seating offering eclectic global & fusion fare, plus weekend brunch.
• Red Mesa : Authentic Mexican cuisine, with a lively atmosphere
• Rick’s Reef: Casual dining
• Caddy's Tresure island : Beachfront cafe with live music and dj's
• Dirty Laundry : Music, drink, and great atmosphere. Enter this restaurant through a laundry room. 

Dinner hot spots:

• Mangosteen : Tropical cocktail bar & restaurant. tacos, taps, and more.
• Bella Brava : Italian restaurant with some American dining options
• Bavaros : Classic Italian pizza
• The Lure : Sushi, tapas, cocktails, pool tables
• Tropez : Extensive menu with craft cocktail bar
• Ceviche : Tapas bar and restaurant
• Cassis : Restaurant with American and french style bakery options.
• Taverna coastale : Rustic Italian/modern restaurant combination
• The avenue dtsp : Lively atmosphere for burgers, craft cocktails & beer
• 1200 Chophouse : Intimate steakhouse with American dishes & Seafood.
• Middle Grounds Gril l : Seafood grill & bar with live music
• Spinners Restaurant St. Pete Beach : Glamorous seafood restaurant featuring 360-degree views from its revolving dining room.

Things To Do In St Pete For Bachelorette Party:

A bachelorette weekend to St Pete would not be complete without visiting the beach. You can visit St Pete beach which has it all or even add a beach day to one of the surrounding beaches outside of St Pete.

• St Pete Beach : Gorgeous beach Just south of Xlearwater that is just as beautiful as clearwater beach, but typically less busy. St. Pete Beach was voted TripAdvisor's Traveler's Choice No. 1 Beach in the U.S. and No. 5 in the world in 2021

Clearwater Beach :  Clearwater is a very popular beach destination, so it can get crowded at times. Lined with beautiful white sands and hotels.

• Madeira Beach : A quaint beach town located outside of St Pete. Madeira Beach is best known for John’s Pass Village and boardwalk.
• Treasure Island : Treasure Island is just a short drive from st Petersburg and Tampa. Here you will find white sandy beaches and gorgeous water.  
• Indian Rocks Beach :   Beautiful beach that is part of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL area.
• Anna Maria Island: Anna Maria Island Beach is a beautiful barrier island on the Gulf Coast of Florida, known for its white sand beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and water sports.

More Things To Do In St Pete:

• Trolly Pub St Petersburg
• Rent party bus
• Johns Pass  
• Tiki Boat Cruises

Where To Party: Bars

Downtown St Pete is a lot of fun and has a strip of bars on  Central Ave and 2nd street North and surrounding area. St Pete doesn't have a big club scene like Tampa, but there are a lot of really fun and lowkey bars. Downtown ST Pete at night is always a good time and a great area to enjoy nightlife in St Pete. 

• Mandarin Hide
• Crafty Squirrel
• Saigon Blonde
•   Copper Shaker
• Toasted Monkey
• Park and Rec

Beach Bars:

• Postcard Inn 

Take a day trip: 

 There are amazing cities located just outside of Tampa within the tampa bay area worth taking a day trip to! You even consider taking a party bus from Tampa and visiting the surrounding areas bars and clubs for a night of fun. 

• Tampa : Pefect big city to party in and enjoy restaurants, nightlife, and bars on a bachelorette party.
• Clearwater : City with gorgeous beach and plenty to do for a day trip.
• Ybor City : This is an awesome area to go if you are short on time and looking to mainly just club for a fun bachelorette night out. 
• Anna Maria Island : Take a day trip to an island not too far fro ST Pete with gorgeous white sandy beaches.

Looking for some more bachelorette party destinations? Check out: 100+Bachelorette Party Destinations .

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Explore MyRecipes

Profile menu, our best portable appetizers.

Choose these easy, no-mess appetizers when you need to take a dish to the party and feel confident that it will be perfect when you arrive. The trick to bringing an appetizer to a party is making sure it arrives as beautiful, and as tasty, as when you left home. Save yourself the prepping, packaging, and hauling of food prep items and instead make a dish that travels beautifully. From basic dips to candied bacon, this collection of portable appetizer recipes has something for everyone.

Cheesy Sausage Roll-Ups

Cheesy Sausage Roll-Ups Recipe

These southwestern-style roll-ups require just 5 ingredients. 

Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon

Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon Recipe

Potato halves serve as the base of savory Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon appetizers.

Roquefort Cheesecake with Pear Preserves and Pecans

Roquefort Cheesecake with Pear Preserves and Pecans Recipe

Make this savory cheesecake and let it chill overnight, or longer. It’s easy to transport to a party on a platter since there’s nothing to spill or jiggle. When you get to the party, top the cheesecake with preserves and pecans.

Basil Aïoli with Crudités

Basil Aïoli with Crudités Recipe

Make a simple, herbed aioli for dipping crunchy veggies. We like baby carrots, endive, and asparagus, but you could use any fresh seasonal vegetables.

Chicken Salad Pitas

Chicken Salad Pitas Recipe

Pepper jelly adds a sweet-hot note to Chicken Salad Pitas. And you'll love the extra zing from lemon zest and ground red pepper that's been added to these appetizer sandwiches.

Cheesy Masa Pancakes with Pico de Gallo

Cheesy Masa Pancakes with Pico de Gallo Recipe

Masa harina adds delicate corn flavor to these bite-size pancakes. Look for it on the baking aisle.

Jalapeño Cheese Straws

Jalapeño Cheese Straws Recipe

Try this fancy-looking cheese straw recipe for a no-hassle appetizer you can take on the go. This subtly spicy recipe even impressed our Test Kitchen staff!

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons Recipe

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons combine nutty pecans and earthy rosemary to create a robust riff on the average Cheddar cheese straw.

Pepper Jack Grits Poppers

Pepper Jack Grits Poppers Recipe

Prep everything before you arrive, and then pop the peppers until the broiler for a few minutes just before serving.

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

Smoked salmon is always a special treat, and this creamy dip is a great way to feature its rich flavor. Since it’s a relatively thick dip, it’s easy to transport in a festive serving dish covered with plastic wrap. You can pre-chop some fresh veggies to serve with the dip, or just buy a package of breadsticks or crackers.

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Revive this party staple by setting out a bountiful platter of shrimp with three bowls of zingy new sauces: Avocado Cream, Tequila-Lime Cocktail Sauce, and Ginger Rémoulade.

Olive-Blue Moons

Olive-Blue Moons Recipe

Spanish olives and blue cheese bring distinct flavor to each bite of savory Olive-Blue Moons.

Vanilla-Spice Nuts

Vanilla-Spice Nuts Recipe

Add festive holiday flavor to toasted mixed nuts with vanilla, cinnamon, allspice and cardamom. Spiced nuts are close to being the perfect portable appetizer: make-ahead, no liquids to spill during transport, no reheating required, and an empty, non-messy bowl guaranteed at the end of the party.

Country Chicken Pâté

Country Chicken Pâté Recipe

You can't go wrong with an appetizer that's served at room temperature. This rich-and-creamy spread is best accompanied by a French bread baguette, coarse-grained mustard, and crunchy gherkins.

Mustard-Dill Tortellini Salad Skewers

Mustard-Dill Tortellini Salad Skewers Recipe

Crunched for time? Nix the skewers, and toss salad with 1/2 cup of dressing just before serving. Spoon into a pretty bowl, and garnish with a dill sprig.

Millionaire's Candied Bacon

Millionaire's Candied Bacon Recipe

Offer guests sweet-savory bites of Millionaire's Candied Bacon at your next party. You'll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Savory Spiced Shortbreads

Savory Spiced Shortbreads Recipe

These savory shortbread rounds will be a welcome addition to any party and are sturdy enough to travel. In addition to the batch you're bringing for guest to enjoy, package a few extra in a decorative box and give as a hostess gift along with a bottle of wine.

Smoked Salmon-Cardamom Spread

Smoked Salmon-Cardamom Spread Recipe

Even though this make-ahead spread is super easy, the smoked salmon adds a bit of sophistication. You can't go wrong when you show up with this tasty salmon appetizer, and you an be assured that you won't be taking any back home.

Crostini with Cucumber, Smoked Salmon, and Dill

Crostini with Cucumber, Smoked Salmon, and Dill Recipe

Top baked bread slices with cream cheese, cucumber, and smoked salmon to make this tasty appetizer.

Mini Bacon and Potato Frittatas

Mini Bacon and Potato Frittatas Recipe

Our savory little frittatas can be prepared up to a month in advance and frozen until ready to use, when they'll just need a quick reheat in your host's oven.

Baked Beef Empanadas

Baked Beef Empanadas Recipe

You have a choice with these to-go appetizers – serve them at room temperature or reheat at your destination. Guests will devour them either way.

Olive and Onion Tapenade

Olive and Onion Tapenade Recipe

Transform the party olive tray into a tasty, take-along tapenade. Serve this pungent, salty spread with baguette slices and crudités.

Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Wafers

Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Wafers Recipe

These savory, buttery cheese wafers have just a touch of sweetness from the dried cranberries and are perfect for a holiday cocktail buffet. You can transport and serve them in a festive tin or put them in a heavy-duty plastic bag and arrange on a platter when you get to the party.

Garlicky Spinach Dip with Hearts of Palm

Garlicky Spinach Dip with Hearts of Palm Recipe

This thick, hearty dip is definitely travel worthy. If your trip is under 15 minutes, go ahead and bake it before you leave the house and it'll be fine when you arrive.

Cheese Olivettes

Cheese Olivettes Recipe

Alice describes these little bites as cheese straws with an olive stuffed inside. They were a special treat reserved for holidays and for whenever her parents hosted the supper club in their Birmingham, Alabama, home.

Cranberry-Jalapeño Salsa

Cranberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe

Offer a festive alternative to tomato salsa during the holidays with this make-ahead salsa featuring fresh cranberries and jalapeño pepper. You can make the salsa up to a month ahead and freeze. When it’s time to take it to the party, just thaw, spoon into a serving bowl, and bring along a bag of tortilla chips.

Chipotle Shrimp Cups

Chipotle Shrimp Cups Recipe

The components of this deceptively easy appetizer can be prepared the night before. Then, just assemble and heat before you hit the road or when you arrive at your destination.

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Cranberry jelly is the secret to these sweet and savory BBQ meatballs.

Artichoke and Fennel Caponata

Artichoke and Fennel Caponata Recipe

Because this chunky vegetable spread can be served at room temperature or chilled, it's a great recipe to take to a party. Serve with sturdy crackers, pita chips, or toasted bread slices.

Cheese Straws

Cheese Straws Recipe

Make several batches of these easy cheese straws before the holiday season gets started, and freeze them in heavy-duty zip-lock plastic bags. When you need something to take to a party, just take some out of the freeze about 30 minutes before you leave. Take them to the party in the bag and arrange them on a platter or in julep cups after you arrive.

Green Pea Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto

Green Pea Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto Recipe

Offering a bright pop of color and requiring next to no prep time, these tasty little toasts are equally ideal for special spring gatherings and casual afternoon snacking. You can assemble them up to 45 minutes before serving and they won't sog out.

Parmesan and Herb Cheese Puffs

Parmesan and Herb Cheese Puffs Recipe

These rich pastry bites can be baked right from the freezer so your guests can eat them warm.

Roasted Carrot Platter

Roasted Carrot Platter Recipe

Scoop up these spiced carrots and seasoned yogurt with freshly toasted pita chips.

Chilled Mussels with Saffron Mayo

Chilled Mussels with Saffron Mayo Recipe

A spicy Provençal sauce called rouille inspired the mayo for this easy, elegant platter; you'll have enough extra for sandwiches.

Bacon Baklava

Bacon Baklava Recipe

Cleta Burden of Porterville, California, took traditional baklava and added everybody's favorite ingredient. The result: outrageous and addictive.

Field Pea-and-Radish Crostini

Field Pea-and-Radish Crostini Recipe

Combine ricotta, lemon zest, and black pepper and spread the ricotta mixture over each toast; top evenly with the pea mixture and serve.

Chicken Bites with Tomato Mint Salsa

Chicken Bites with Tomato Mint Salsa Recipe

If gluten-free guests are on your invite list, make this mellow dunking salsa with a flour-free brand of chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, such as La Costeña.

Bacon-Fig Tassies

Bacon-Fig Tassies Recipe

Pinched for time? Swap the dough for frozen mini-phyllo pastry shells.

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans Recipe

Make these a few days ahead, and chill in an airtight container.

Crispy Potato Chips

Crispy Potato Chips Recipe

Slice potatoes as thin as possible.

Fried Hominy

Fried Hominy Recipe

Dangerously delicious, this is the new popcorn for tree trimming--if you don't eat it all first.

Gumbo Rice Fritters

Gumbo Rice Fritters Recipe

You can make the rice balls two weeks ahead and freeze. Bread and fry straight from the freezer.

Garlic, Avocado, and Tomato Toast

Garlic, Avocado, and Tomato Toast Recipe

Quick, simple, and pulling in at under ten ingredients makes these toasts a great appetizer option.

Marinated Olives and Almonds

Marinated Olives and Almonds Recipe

A big batch of these antipasti will last in the refrigerator up to a week. It's the perfect snack to serve unexpected holiday company. For extra flavor, use smoked almonds.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

This fresh, colorful swap for creamy shrimp dip was inspired by reader Carolyn Coleman.

Sweet Pea Crostini with Ricotta

Sweet Pea Crostini with Ricotta Recipe

Impress your company with this easy-to-prepare appetizer. Making your own ricotta is incredibly simple and doesn't require special equipment.

Orange-Basil Baked Brie

Orange-Basil Baked Brie Recipe

Serve on a pretty cutting board with a cheese knife, and let guests cut their own portions.

Split Pea Mini Pancakes with Mushroom Relish

Split Pea Mini Pancakes with Mushroom Relish Recipe

Garnish these festive bites with cilantro. They're best served hot but are also good at room temperature.

Sweet Potato Tartlets

Sweet Potato Tartlets Recipe

These festive tarts are the perfect sweet treat for grazing guests. You can make them up to a day ahead, and store, covered, in the fridge.

Shrimp-and-Andouille Gumbo Dip

Shrimp-and-Andouille Gumbo Dip Recipe

Use sliced veggies or bread sticks with this popular and tasty dip.

Wine-Spiked Cranberry Cheese Log

Wine-Spiked Cranberry Cheese Log Recipe

Use this succulent, syrupy fruit as a topping for pound cake or ice cream. You can also spoon it over a softened log of goat cheese instead of cream cheese.

Veggie Spring Rolls with Cashew-Ginger Dipping Sauce

Veggie Spring Rolls with Cashew-Ginger Dipping Sauce Recipe

Rice paper wrappers hold these slim-cut veggies together for a bright springtime treat.

Chicken Phyllo Turnovers

Chicken Phyllo Turnovers Recipe

This appetizer is based on bisteeya, a traditional Moroccan pastry that pairs savory, spiced meat and flaky phyllo with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar. Make ahead: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month; bake frozen, unthawed pastries 5 additional minutes or until browned.

Melon, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Skewers

Melon, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Skewers Recipe

Put out half of the skewers, and keep the remaining chilled until ready to serve. Everyone loves a good melon salad , so we took that idea and "skewer-ed" it. Salty cured ham meets creamy, fresh melon for the ultimate savory/sweet combination. With the addition of smooth mozzarella cheese, these skewers are texturally satisfying and not shy on flavor. Your guests will absolutley the easiness and accessibility of these skewers, and you'd be surprised at how impressed they'll be.

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers Recipe

There's nothing better than a simple appetizer. That is until you try this two-ingredient dish. Wrap crispy bacon around a buttery cracker for ultimate bite.

Spicy, Barely Sweet Supercrunch Granola

Spicy, Barely Sweet Supercrunch Granola Recipe

Our supremely crunchy, irresistible granola almost feels more like party mix (but still contains all those great whole grains). It stores well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.

Greek Crab Dip

Greek Crab Dip Recipe

With the salty richness of feta cheese and brightness from fresh lemon juice and herbs, this is an incredible twist on a classic creamy crab dip. Lump crab meat gives the dip an added touch of decadence, but it could also be made with less-expensive claw meat. Served with warm, crusty baguette slices this savory crab dip is the perfect “something different” to bring to your next potluck or party.

Flamin' Hot Cheetos Stuffed Jalapeños

Flamin' Hot Cheetos Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe

What do you get when you cross the most virally popular snack on the chip aisle with one of the most beloved appetizers of all time? Obviously, the hottest snacketizer around.

Touchdown Pinwheels

Touchdown Pinwheels Recipe

There is a whole lot of flavor wrapped up in these colorful little pinwheels. You can serve them cold as appetizers or a fun snack.

Tomato-Feta Bites

Tomato-Feta Bites Recipe

Start with frozen puff pastry to make these 6-ingredient Mediterranean-style appetizers featuring the savory goodness of tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

Boysenberry Wine Compote with Goat Cheese and Basil

Boysenberry Wine Compote with Goat Cheese and Basil Recipe

Here's one for your summer-party recipe stash. Wine and black pepper make the compote sophisticated, and you can put the whole thing together in minutes--for guests to serve themselves.

Sweet Pea and Avocado Dip with Baked Pita Chips

Sweet Pea and Avocado Dip with Baked Pita Chips Recipe

Incorporating green peas into this tasty summer snack not only reduces the amount of fat but also adds sweetness and further brightens the green color.

Mini Caprese Bites

Mini Caprese Bites Recipe

Serve these mini tomato and mozzarella skewers in individual glasses as an appetizer at a seated dinner party, or arrange on a platter for your buffet. Fresh mozzarella bites, tomatoes, basil, and balsomic join forces for a summery, adorable appetizers that will have your guests swooning. Kids love the presentation, and the skewers allow for easy, mess-free eating. Caprese is always a party showstopper, and these cute mini-skewer ideas are no exception.

Crab Cake Hush Puppies

Crab Cake Hush Puppies Recipe

Serve these Crab Cake Hush Puppies with your favorite rémoulade or cocktail sauce for tasty appetizers . Hush puppies, a Southern classic made by deep-frying a cornmeal batter gets a seafood makeover. Served with a creamy, thick dipping sauce, these salty critters are a great option for a potluck meal or an appetizer that serves to impress. Freeze any leftovers and defrost up to 3 months later.

Cranberry-Goat Cheese Canapés

Cranberry-Goat Cheese Canapés Recipe

Make Ahead: Stir together the cranberry mixture up to 3 days ahead of time. Assemble the canapés the day of your party.

Traditional Hummus

Traditional Hummus Recipe

When you take a dip to a party, it's a good idea to take a thick dip that's not likely to slosh out of the dish during transport. A creamy, garlicky bean dip like this one is ideal, especially since it's supposed to stand at room temperature about 30 minutes before serving. Just bring along a bag of pita chips for dippers.

Black-Eyed Pea Pâté

Black-Eyed Pea Pâté Recipe

A touch of salty country ham and shiitake mushrooms adds deep flavor to this earthy, creamy Southern spread. Serve with crostini.

Curried Crab Spread

Curried Crab Spread Recipe

This tangy seafood spread with crostini is an all-around schedule-saver–you can prepare it up to two days in advance of your party and whisk it right out the door. To save even more time, serve with crackers instead of baking the bread slices for the crostini.

Asparagus-Blue Cheese Canapés

Asparagus-Blue Cheese Canapés Recipe

Not a blue cheese fan? Use any soft, crumbly cheese you like atop these bite-sized toast squares.

Asian-Spiced Pecans

Asian-Spiced Pecans Recipe

Freeze a batch of these at the start of the holiday season, and you'll always have finger food ready to go – they'll keep in your freezer for up to a month. For easy transport, just put them in a glass jar and take an extra one to leave as gift for your host.

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9 Low-Key Bachelorette Party Ideas for the Ultimate Chill Celebration

If you're planning a bachelorette party for a bride who despises the idea of the standard wild bar crawl, these low-key bachelorette party ideas are creative and cool.

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Santa Barbara Sailing Center

When bridal party groups gather to plan a bachelorette celebration , it can be difficult to decide what exactly to do. There's no rules for whether it should be a grand bachelorette weekend or a simple girls' night. The only thing that is a must for any bachelorette party idea is that it gives the bride-to-be a break from wedding planning with her best friends. 

However, not every future bride is into a typical bachelorette party and it's up to her bridesmaids or maid of honor to navigate whether she's more interested in a wild time in places like Vegas or Miami , or if she'd prefer a more low-key bachelorette bash. 

Although bachelorette parties are traditionally known to be loud, drunken parties where you let loose and do things you maybe wouldn't normally, Jamie Chang of  Mango Muse Events  in Los Altos, California explains that they don't always have to be. "A low-key bachelorette party can actually be a better fit depending on the bride," she says. "If the bride isn't a partier, doesn't drink or just all around isn't into the traditional bachelorette, doing something low-key instead will be much happier for her instead of trying to force her into a bachelorette she doesn't actually want." 

Instead, doing something low-key allows the bride to be herself, be comfortable, and actually have fun with her besties. "Something a little quieter also gives the bride and her girls more time to talk and connect," she says. "It can be a great opportunity for bridesmaids to get to know each other as well if they don't already. And if they do, it's a chance to spend more time together."

Plus, a low-key bachelorette party can be helpful in terms of budgets and logistics while also taking some pressure of both the bride and her bridal party. Check out these nine low-key bachelorette party ideas for bridesmaids looking to show their bff some bridal love before her big day.

1. Glamping 

JoAnn Gregoli of  Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli  in New York City recommends planning a glamping trip for a fun bachelorette party getaway. "It’ll be perfect for you and your crew if you’re an outdoorsy bunch," she says. "You can rent a cabin, yurt, or treehouse for a unique getaway trip."   She notes that this low-key bachelorette party idea offers all the fun of camping while still being able to use electricity, a shower, and an actual toilet. "Glamping just brings you back to nature," she adds. Pack your swimsuits, s'mores, and matching pajamas for a nostalgic few days that will bring back memories of summer camp with a personal twist thanks to a thoughtful bridal party.

2.  Airbnb Weekend Getaway  

Whether your besties are looking to take a trip to a trendy destination like Nashville or your bridesmaid crew is looking to hunker down for a few nights, a chic rental can transform your bachelorette weekend into an incredible time with your best friends. Bachelorette party activities could include traditional games before a private chef comes to spoil the bride-to-be or DIY wine tasting from the comfort of pajamas followed by a karaoke competition to cap off the night.

3. Spa Day 

Make this bachelorette weekend a bash that's all about pampering the bride-to-be. "Grab your girls and go to an all-inclusive spa where you can spend the day lounging at the pool, sitting in the sauna, getting a massage or facial, and laying back with some cucumber eyes," says Gregoli. Whether you pick a local spa or plan this relaxing day as part of a larger getaway weekend, this relaxing bachelorette party activity will be a welcome relief after months of wedding planning. 

4. Slumber Party 

Go the nostalgic route with an old school slumber party that will blow any traditional slumber party from her youth out of the water. Check out Etsy for some DIY bachelorette party games, plan a sleepover scavenger hunt filled with sentimental or hysterical surprises and make sure to load up on her favorite snacks — complete with ice cream and wine. Deck out the entire crew in matching slippers, robes, or pajamas (these could also be used again come wedding morning!) and be ready for a night of karaoke singing, movies, and memories. Whether you crash in a luxe hotel room or the maid of honor's basement, there's nothing like a slumber party with your best friends. 

5. Bridal Party Brunch

The bachelorette party doesn't need to be an entire weekend or even a formal nighttime affair. Consider a bridesmaids brunch complete with mimosas and the bride's favorite breakfast foods. From champagne and donuts in a decorated hotel room to avocado toast and Bloody Marys in a loved one's backyard, you can't go wrong with a low-key brunch. 

6. Painting Class

Gregoli also recommends embracing a bride's creative side as a low-key bachelorette party idea. "Set up a Paint and Sip workshop with your girls to channel your inner Bob Ross and create your own gorgeous painting," she says. "The class will walk you through the step-by-step process to a stunning painting — all while bumping some music and allowing you to hold a paintbrush in one hand and a drink in the other!" Plus, there's bonus points for the sentimental touch if this was an activity the bride-to-be did on an early date with her future spouse.

7.   Cooking Class

This bachelorette party idea can go three different ways: as a girls' night out at a restaurant, as a night in with a chef coming to you, or with an exotic feel by booking a destination chef from Italy of France for a lesson over Zoom. You could also plan the meal around the couple's honeymoon location or make it all about the bride-to-be's favorite desserts. 

8. Yoga Retreat 

There's no denying it: wedding planning can be seriously stressful. That's why a wellness weekend getaway might be exactly what your bestie needs before her upcoming nuptials. "Take off on a yoga retreat with your ladies for some ultimate zen trip," said Gregoli. "This will help combat wedding stress and find your inner peace…all beside your besties."

9. Photo Shoot  

Whether you live in a breathtaking city like New York City for a statement backdrop or have nature surrounding you, plan an insta-worthy photo shoot of the bride with the special women in her life. Start by pampering the bride-to-be with hair and makeup with a surprise glamsquad visit before striking some poses. Not only will she appreciate the playful memories of taking photographs with her ladies but also the pictures will be a priceless gift she'll cherish for years to come. Plus, after the shoot is done, the group will be all decked out and ready for a girls' night.

Related WeddingWire Articles

39 Unique Bachelorette Party Ideas

For some brides, the bachelorette party can be almost as anticipated as their big day. A bachelorette party is a fun tradition that gives brides one last night out as a “single” woman, and a way to celebrate with her bridesmaids and best friends. 

If you’re planning this event for the bride , you’ll want to come up with a fun bachelorette party idea that the bride will enjoy especially. Check out all of our favorite bachelorette party ideas, from wild nights out to cozy nights in, bachelorette decorations, games, party favors, and more. 

Weekend Away

Can you say road trip? One of the most popular ways to celebrate a modern bachelorette party is to make it a bachelorette weekend! That’s right – the old bachelorette party has transformed into a weekend away, usually in a different city or beach town .

Consider party locations like Las Vegas, New York, or Miami. Ultimately, however, you should pick a location that the bride would love to visit! This gives the bride extra time with her girlfriends and a mini vacation before the wedding. Rent a house, hotel rooms, or an AirBnb!

If you’re thinking about a bachelorette weekend, make sure you plan a bit further in advance so that the bride, bridesmaids, and any other friends can commit a full weekend of their time. You should also consider the location and travel costs – road trip distances are less expensive than those that require air fare.

We’ll list some of the most popular bachelorette weekend destinations later!

Winery or Brewery Tour

If you have a full day but not a full weekend, consider doing a tour of local wineries, breweries, or even distilleries! A wine tasting could be a fun Saturday activity on your weekend away, or it could be the main bachelorette party event. 

Research wineries, breweries, or distilleries in your area to create a tour – you may even be able to call and get special pricing for your group. If your bride loves wines, craft beers, or spirits like whisky and moonshine, a tour of local producers will be make for a fun, boozy bachelorette party.

Girls Night Out 

An easy, classic bachelorette party idea is a girls night out on the town. Pick a night a few weeks before the wedding, get the girls together and get all dressed up for a fun night out!

Choose from activities like bar hopping the bride’s favorite bars, clubs, or pick a nice restaurant at which to spend the night. A short bar crawl is never out of the question either! 

For a one-night-only bachelorette party, a night out with the girls may be the perfect way to celebrate the bride. 

Attend a Class

Perhaps the bride isn’t a big drinker or partier. There are still plenty of ways to have fun for her bachelorette party! If going out to the bars isn’t her style, consider taking a group class together instead.

This class could be anything – cooking classes, cocktail classes, yoga or fitness classes, candle making, pottery, dance class – the list goes on! A cooking class may include a wine tasting to add some extra fun. 

Pick a class that would appeal to the bride – if she loves art, a pottery, painting, or candle making class may be perfect. If she loves to dance, a Zumba or even pole dancing class could be the perfect bachelorette party for her. Research classes in your area to find one that fits the bride’s style!

See a Show 

If you want more of an activity for your bachelorette’s night out, consider seeing a show! You could go to a concert, travel to NYC for a Broadway play, visit a comedy club, or even check out a drag show. 

There are plenty of options for entertainment, so if a night out doesn’t sound like enough of an event, look for shows in your area. You can still enjoy a nice dinner before your show, drinks after, or include a show in your itinerary during your bachelorette weekend. 

Charter a Boat

Looking to spend time with the girls without a crowd of strangers around? Consider chartering a boat! If you live near a body of water or you’re visiting one for the bachelorette party, taking a boat out for the day is a fun activity out in the sunshine. 

Charter a boat to sail around for the day – the bride and her friends can spend a day drinking, snacking, taking Instagram worthy pictures, and listening to music while enjoying the open sea. Brides who choose this party often use the popular bachelorette saying “One last sail before the veil” as a fitting theme for the event. 

Bachelorette Party Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt can be a fun, unique activity for your bachelorette party. The best part about a this bachelorette party idea is that you can make it your own – you can search for items or for tasks that need to be completed, make your hunt low key and PG or more mature, and make it as serious or silly as you want!

Create a scavenger hunt of items for the bride to find, of places to visit that are important to her marriage or for the purpose of the night out, or even make a list of tasks that must be completed. For example, you could enjoy a girls night out with a to-do list that includes tasks like “Take a shot at each bar”, “Get 5 guys’ numbers”, or “High five a bartender”. 

Party Bus 

A party bus is a fun way to get from place to place while enjoying the journey. Renting a party bus is one of the most popular bachelorette party ideas out there, and you can use it to enjoy a bar crawl, a tour of vineyards or breweries like we mentioned before, or simply to drive around your city and have fun! 

If you’re traveling somewhere that’s not too far away, a party bus can make the trip itself a party as well. Visit the beach for a day in your party bus, or use it to drive to other activities for a fun-filled celebration of the bride.  

Bike Bus Tour

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Bedrock (@bedrockdetroit) on Sep 17, 2015 at 10:13am PDT

If you like the idea of a party bus but you want more outdoors time, a bike bus tour is a great outdoor alternative! Also called a party bike or a pedal pub , you may have seen these bike tours before. Everyone rides a huge connected bike, typically the size and shape of a small bus, while sitting at a bar. You can ride around the city, stopping at bars, restaurants, or other activities, and drink while you pedal.

These party bike tours are a great way to spend some time outside while touring your local area. Plus, you can safely drink along the way! 

Simple Bachelorette Party Ideas 

Some brides don’t want an extravagant bachelorette party, and would be happier with low-key bachelorette party ideas . For the relaxed bride, consider these simple bachelorette party ideas!

You can still have plenty of fun without breaking the budget or spending a wild night out. 

Bachelorette Brunch

Paint party, bachelorette camping trip, girls night in.

• Spa Trip 
• Staycation 

Volunteer Day

If a night out isn’t your cup of tea, perhaps a late morning or early afternoon is your preferred time of day! A low key bachelorette brunch can be even more fun than a night out, and it’s a shorter event that’s easier to plan. 

Simply pick your favorite brunch restaurant or host brunch at one of the bridesmaids’ houses. Depending on where you go, you may be able to get a private room so that you can decorate and fully enjoy time with the girls.

Sip mimosas and bloody Marys while you eat your favorite brunch foods like pancakes and eggs Benedict. 

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Tippling Art (@tipplingart) on Sep 10, 2020 at 4:12am PDT

For an artsy bride, a paint party may be the perfect way to celebrate the end of her single days. You can paint while you eat snacks and drink either at home or at a business or gallery like Painting with a Twist. For brides during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is one of the best at-home bachelorette party ideas!

At a paint party, the bride can enjoy a laid back night with her friends, eating, drinking, painting, and catching up. This can be a more relaxed affair so that you can spend a night together while avoiding the hangover from a wild night out. 

If the bride loves the great outdoors, a girls camping trip may be the best bachelorette party you can offer! For those less comfortable with the outdoors, glamping is also an option.

Depending on how outdoors-y your group is, you can pitch tents or rent a cabin or RV to escape from life at home and sleep under the stars for a few nights. 

A bachelorette camping trip gives the bride and her friends extra privacy to bond and enjoy each other’s company before the hustle and bustle of the big day. Pack snacks, drinks, games, and more and sit around the campfire with the girls.

For some, an elaborate bachelorette party just doesn’t sound fun. This night should be all about what the bride wants, so if she just wants a night with some quality time with her bridal party, consider a low key girls night in! This is also one of the most affordable bachelorette party ideas for those on a tight budget.

Girls night in can mean movie night, at home manicures, crafts, snacks, or anything you want! You can play bachelorette party games, do some at-home spa treatments, or have an old school slumber party. A night in can be whatever you want it to be, and it can be just as fun as a night out. 

Invest in some R&R by turning your bachelorette party into a spa day! Take the girls to the spa to enjoy massages, facials, saunas, and other treatments.

This is not only a fun and relaxing way to bond with the bridal party, but it will also have you all looking your best for the wedding day! 

Some spas will offer group rates, especially for special occasions like a bachelorette party. A spa day doesn’t have to be expensive, so this bachelorette party idea can work on various budgets. A day at the spa is the perfect way to kick back after months of wedding planning stress.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Paris312 (@shopparis312) on Aug 26, 2020 at 10:23am PDT

Maybe you don’t want to take a trip out of town, but you do want to mix it up and do something different at home. A staycation offers you the chance to experience your city like a tourist. Look for hotels or rent a cool AirBnb in your city for a weekend or just a night and enjoy a staycation bachelorette party with the girls. 

A staycation can be a creative bachelorette party idea, whether you want a night out on the town or a girls night in. If you’re going out, pick a hotel or rent somewhere in walking distance to the bars, clubs, or other activities you’re planning to attend.

If you’re staying in, rent a place big enough for all the girls and break out all of your bachelorette party decorations, games, and snacks for a fun night in a new setting. 

For the bride who loves to give back, the best gift may be a volunteer day with all of her best friends. If your bride is less interested in partying and more concerned with her favorite cause, she’ll love a day volunteering for something she cares about with her best friends by her side.

Figure out what organization you’d like to volunteer with – the bride may have a cause that’s close to her heart already. Choosing an organization that is important to the bride makes for one of the most meaningful bachelorette party ideas!

Reach out and see if you can offer your service for a day. Volunteering doesn’t have to be all work and no play – you can still have fun while giving back to a worthy cause, and go out for well deserved drinks after!  

Bachelorette Weekend Ideas 

Weekend bachelorette parties are becoming more and more common. Why have one night of a bachelorette party when you could spend a whole weekend celebrating in a new place? The biggest question when planning a bachelorette weekend is where to go. Check out these popular bachelorette weekend destinations. 

New York City 

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Bachelorette Party Nashville (@bachelorettepartynashville) on Sep 8, 2020 at 5:08pm PDT

Nashville has become the epicenter of all bachelorette parties. This Tennessee city is known for live music, delicious Southern food, and for being the perfect destination for many bachelorettes. Take pictures with your bridal party in front of Nashville’s many famous murals, hit the bars on Broadway street downtown, and enjoy all Nashville has to offer.

There’s no party town quite like Vegas. For a wild bachelorette party, consider visiting Las Vegas. There is endless entertainment in Vegas, from the bars, clubs, and restaurants to magic shows and other extravagant performances.

Just because you choose a Vegas bachelorette party doesn’t mean it has to be like The Hangover movies!

Miami 

Miami is another great party town for a bachelorette party, and you can enjoy beautiful beaches as well! This city is known for its beaches, delicious food, and nightlife! Sunbathe in South Beach or check out some of the best restaurants in Miami.

The city has a large Latin American population, so you can enjoy the Latin influence on food, music, and culture in Miami. 

The Big Apple is a great place to spend your bachelorette weekend. The city that never sleeps has endless activities, from Broadway shows, some of the best shopping opportunities, and any type of restaurant, bar, or club you can imagine. 

Celebrate your bachelorette party on the beaches of Mexico! Cancun is a favorite spring break destination, but it also makes a great destination bachelorette party (just avoid the weeks of college spring break). Enjoy margaritas, white sand beaches, and a relaxing but fun weekend with the girls. 

Bachelorette Party Decoration Ideas

No bachelorette party is complete without decorations! Whether it’s the hotel room, AirBnB, home, or the place that you’re pregaming, set up some bachelorette party decorations for a backdrop to your photoshoots.

• Photo Props 

Banners & Signs 

Confetti poppers.

• Pinata  

String Lights

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Pop the Bubbly™️ (@popthebubblyevents) on Oct 9, 2019 at 9:02am PDT

You can’t go wrong with balloons! Get colors that match your theme or the bride’s favorite colors to decorate your hotel room, AirBnB, or the house where you’ll be celebrating or pregaming! For added fun, splurge on some letter balloons to spell out your bachelorette hashtag or saying , like “Bride Tribe” or something funny! Check out these balloons available on Amazon: 

Check Prices on Amazon

Photo Props

What’s a bachelorette party without a photoshoot? Decorate with photo props like frames, silly sunglasses and hats, or other props. You can buy a pack of bachelorette themed props or make your own at home with a few simple supplies like construction paper, cardboard, scissors, and tape! Check out these bachelorette photo booth props from Amazon: 

Surprise your bride with a room decked out in decor. Create banners with funny bachelorette sayings or your theme for the night or weekend. Hang cute tassel banners to add color to the room. Create signs with slogans, sayings, or even directions to make your signature cocktail for the weekend! You can hang banners or use those LED light box signs to create your own! Here are some more options from Amazon: 

Add an extra splash of fun with confetti poppers! These can help add more color to the room with matching confetti, or they make for a fun photoshoot idea with live action shots of you popping the confetti. 

Make sure the bride gets the attention she deserves with a “Bride” sash and matching bridesmaid sashes to wear out! This way, everyone can see that you’re celebrating a bachelorette party. You can get generic sashes or even get them custom made to match your colors and theme. Check out these options from Amazon: 

Add some extra fun with a piñata! Go all out for the bachelorette party with a piñata that matches your theme or colors. If you can’t find the perfect piñata to fit your theme, there are diamond ring piñatas that should do the trick! Fill the piñata with the bride’s favorite candy or other small party favors. 

For a pretty glow around the room, add string lights! These can be great for a pregame before a night out, or they can set the perfect lighting for a girls night in and movie night. String lights are cheap and easy to set up, but will really elevate your decorations. 

Bachelorette Party Game Ideas  

Try out these bachelorette party games to get the party started!

• For the Girls

The Newlywed Game

What do you meme.

• Drink If 

Prosecco Pong

• How Well Do You Know the Bride? 

For the Girls 

For the Girls is a new card game made just for the girls! Made by the creators of What Do You Meme, For the Girls is an adult party game that includes “Truth or Dare” cards, “If You’ve Ever” cards, “Most Likely To” cards, “Best of the Best” cards and “Rapid Fire” questions. This game is a surefire way to get the party rolling!

It’s not a bachelorette party without The Newlywed Game! Play this classic by asking the bride questions about the groom. You can get his questions and answers ahead of time, or just play with the bride! See how well the happy couple knows one another and quiz the bride on her groom. 

This popular game is sure to get your bridal party laughing and ready for a night of fun. Come up with funny captions for memes or play the full game – this card game is easy to turn into a good time. You can even play a What Do You Meme drinking game! 

The concept behind the game Drink If is simple – it’s basically “Never Have I Ever” but reverse engineered. Go around the table and come up with funny or crazy tasks and say “Drink If” you’ve done those tasks. You’ll learn a lot about the group you’re with and you may even hear some wild stories as a result! 

The boys can have beer pong while the girls enjoy prosecco pong! The same rules apply – toss a ping pong ball across a table into a glass of prosecco and the other team drinks if you make a cup! You can buy the official Prosecco Pong game – complete with cute (but unbreakable) prosecco glasses, or play with your own cups! 

How Well Do You Know the Bride?

Focus on the bride with this easy-to-play bachelorette party game. Create a list of questions about the bride to ask the group and see which of her bridesmaids knows her best! The bride can even come up with the questions herself to make them a bit harder. Get whiteboards or just scraps of paper for the bridal party to share their answers!

Bachelorette Party Favors 

Send the party guests home with bachelorette party favors ! You can match the party favors to the theme of your party – for example, popcorn and movie snacks from movie night – or use some of our ideas below! 

• Hangover Survival Kits 

Bachelorette Party Cups 

• Bachelorette T Shirts
• Fanny Packs
• Self Care Kits

Hangover Survival Kits

If your bachelorette party includes plenty of drinking games and bar hopping, the best party favor to give is a hangover survival kit. These kits can be cute and fun, while also being a practical way to recover from a fun night out or weekend away. You can include water, pedialyte, snacks, Advil – whatever helps you through a hangover!

Create a special glass to commemorate the bachelorette party! This could be a wine glass, a champagne flute, a pint glass, a coffee mug, a shot glass, or even a travel wine or coffee cup. Whatever best matches your style – then add a saying that fits your theme or personalize with each guests name. This is a cute and useful keepsake. Here are some options from Amazon: 

Bachelorette T Shirts 

A common trend during bachelorette parties is matching t shirts – usually the bride has a shirt that says “Bride” or some other saying, and the rest of the guests wear matching bridesmaids shirts. This is a party favor that you may want to give at the beginning of the bachelorette party so that everyone can wear their shirts together!

Fanny Packs 

For a busy bachelorette party weekend, give the girls matching fanny packs! Fanny packs are back in style, and you can get cheap customized ones with funny sayings or your names on them. Carry around your necessities, confetti poppers, and more in a cute matching fanny pack.

Self Care Kits 

Not quite the same as a hangover kit, a self care kit is another great gift idea! You can include face masks, candles, snacks, and other cozy treats. Treat your bachelorette party to some R&R after the event with a self care gift kit. 

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The Best Gay Cruises

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Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

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Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Detroit plans for travel surge ahead of nfl draft, visit detroit anticipates a significant economic boost.

Pamela Osborne , Anchor/Reporter

DETROIT – The excitement is building in downtown  Detroit  as more draft goers make their way into town.

“Over the next 24 hours, we’re going to start to see a lot more of the out-of-town fans coming to town, and by Wednesday, the city is going to be filled with people,” said Chris Moyer with Visit Detroit.

Visit Detroit anticipates a significant economic boost, with visitors projected to bring in hundreds of millions of dollars, a testament to the NFL draft’s impact on the city’s economy.

Hotel rooms in downtown Detroit are mostly booked. Moyer says some fans will stay at hotels in surrounding counties while others in Detroit have waitlists.

Airbnb says they still have plenty of availability for last-minute travelers despite seeing a 450% increase in searches in Detroit during the NFL draft.

Many of the guests booking for the Draft are from Michigan, places like Jackson, Saint Clair Shores and Grand Rapids. They’ve also seen quite a few people booked from Chicago and Toledo.

No matter where people come from, everyone hopes to see Detroit on the main stage, including 8-year-old Lorenzo Palac and his dad, who were checking out the progress on Campus Martius.

“We want to get a good look at there, where the inside, where all the lights are, and take a stroll downtown.”

The pair said this is likely as close as they’ll get to taking it all in.

Top stories from the NFL draft:

• NFL Draft excitement kicks off Thursday
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• What time does the NFL draft open each day in Downtown Detroit?
• ‘Back in Black’: Detroit Lions reveal new jerseys honoring past with modern twist
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• Massive volunteer effort needed to collect food for hungry citizens during NFL draft in Detroit

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Pamela Osborne is thrilled to be back home at the station she grew up watching! You can watch her on Local 4 News Sundays and weeknights. Pamela joined the WDIV News Team in February 2022, after working at stations in Ohio and Pennsylvania.

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5 Maryland teens shot, 1 critically injured, during water gun fight for senior skip day

By Cara Tabachnick , Nick Kurtz

Updated on: April 19, 2024 / 7:31 PM EDT / CBS News

Authorities are searching for at least one suspect who shot five teenagers, one of whom was critically wounded, during a water gun fight Friday celebrating "senior skip day" at a park in Greenbelt, Maryland, authorities said. 

"These were kids on senior skip day who were looking to have a good time at a local park," Greenbelt Police Chief Richard Bowers said at a news conference later on Friday evening. "And to have something like this occur, is just — it's maddening, honestly." 

Hundreds of teens who had skipped school in Prince George's County for the tradition had initially gathered in Bowie, Maryland, said Greenbelt police spokesperson Ricardo Dennis. 

When both Bowie and Prince George's County police scattered the crowd, about 500 students eventually reconvened at Schrom Hills Recreation Center in Greenbelt, Dennis said. The meet-up had been informally organized on social media authorities said.  

Students will leave school and head to the park with super soakers and squirt guns and "have a good time playing water gun battles," Bowers said, adding teens had a similar water gun fight last year with no incidents.  

The Schrom park is not large and there were a lot of teens crowded into a small space, said Bowers, so officers requested backup. 

Officers were monitoring the water gun fight when live shots from "someone who brought a real gun" were heard, Bowers said. There were about eight to 10 shots fired, Bowers disclosed, and the area was immediately secured while officers searched for a suspect. 

Most of the teenagers left the park as police responded, Dennis said, and a critically injured victim was airlifted to an area hospital. Four other victims were hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, he said. 

Authorities had earlier reported that two of the victims were in critical condition, but downgraded that to one in the evening news conference. 

Two of the shooting victims were under the age of 18, and the other three were over 18, police said. 

Investigators believe the suspect fled the park with the other teens. Police are still investigating whether the gun was fired by someone who was participating in the water gun fight.   

"This is a horrible, tragic, senseless act that happened today. There is absolutely no reason that this occurred. It is senseless, it is chronic in our society, and we have to do something to stop it," Bowers said. 

—  Allie Weintraub contributed to this report.

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor and journalist at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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Catherine Zeta-Jones’ daughter Carys slips into her mom’s 25-year-old dress for 21st birthday party

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Passing on more than just good genes.

Catherine Zeta-Jones’ daughter, Carys Zeta Douglas, looked just like her mom as she reached into the actress’ fashion archives for her 21st birthday.

Carys shared a series of photos celebrating the milestone, sporting a glamorous Ungaro pink slip pink dress with lace accents and roses designed on the top.

She added minimal jewelry and strappy heels to accessorize the statement gown, and she styled her hair in loose curly locks.

Zeta-Jones –– who is shares Carys and brother Michael with husband Michael Douglas –– originally wore the pink dress while walking the red carpet at the 1999 MTV Movie Awards when she was nominated for, and later won, the award for best breakthrough performance for her role in “The Mask of Zorro.”

The Oscar winner, 54, looked remarkably similar to her daughter with her their matching hairstyle and silver strappy heels.

Carys smiled while posing for photos in the dress and even included one of a boy kissing her on the cheek while she held a flower.

“The most perfect 21st I could ask for ! 🌸,” she captioned the carousel of photos.

The “Chicago” actress gave her stamp of approval for the look by commenting under her daughter’s post, “You deserve it sweetheart ❤️.”

Catherine also shared a separate Instagram post that included a few pictures from when her daughter was younger.

“Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter @carys.douglas You are the joy of my life. 21 years of watching you blossom in to the most incredible woman you are today is a God given gift that I never take for granted and cherish every day of my life. Thank you for being you. I love you with all my heart ♥️ Mama,” she wrote.

For more Page Six Style …

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Carys has been in the fashion world since she was a teenager, when she made her magazine cover debut posing alongside her mom for Town & Country in 2018.

“Fashion has been so important in my life, because my mom is like a fashion icon to me,” she told the outlet at the time. “I’m always looking through her closet.”

Since then, the mother-daughter duo have graced the cover of Vanity Fair , starred in a Fendi campaign together and attended several New York Fashion Week shows.

Most recently, Carys wore a semi-sheer Elie Saab lace gown while walking the Cannes Film Festival red carpet with her mom and dad in May 2023.

We expect to see more of Carys on the red carpet after her fashionable birthday party.

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