Collection: Birthdays

A birthday is the annual celebration of the date on which a person was born. It marks the completion of another year of life and is often considered a personal holiday. Celebrations vary widely, but they commonly include parties, special meals, gift-giving, and well-wishes from family and friends.

History of Birthdays

The concept of celebrating birthdays has evolved over thousands of years, influenced by religion, culture, and societal traditions.

Ancient Civilizations

• Egyptians: The earliest birthday celebrations are thought to have started with the Egyptians, but not for regular people—only for pharaohs. These were considered their "birth" as gods when they were crowned.
• Greeks: The Greeks adopted the Egyptian tradition but added birthday cakes. They made moon-shaped cakes to honor the goddess Artemis, lighting candles to make them glow like the moon.
• Romans: The Romans were the first to celebrate birthdays of ordinary men (not women). These celebrations included parties and feasts. Government-recognized birthdays of prominent men were sometimes celebrated publicly.

Middle Ages

• During early Christianity, birthday celebrations were considered pagan, so they were not widely practiced. Over time, the Church began to accept and celebrate the birth of Jesus (Christmas), making birthday celebrations more acceptable for others as well.

Modern Era

• By the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in Western Europe, birthdays became more personal and family-oriented. In Germany, the celebration known as Kinderfest marked the first version of children’s birthday parties with cake and candles.
• In the 20th century, especially in the U.S., birthdays became widely commercialized with greeting cards, party supplies, and themed decorations.

Why Do People Celebrate Birthdays?

• Personal Milestones
  Birthdays represent the passage of time and growth. They’re a chance to reflect on the past year and look forward to the future.
• Social Connection
  Celebrating with friends and family strengthens bonds and provides a sense of belonging and love.
• Cultural and Religious Significance
  In many cultures, certain birthdays carry special meaning—such as turning 16, 18, or 21 in Western cultures, or the "coming of age" ceremonies in others.
• Recognition of Life
  A birthday honors a person’s life and existence. It’s a way of showing appreciation for someone simply for being alive.
• Tradition
  As customs evolved, birthday celebrations became a social norm—something many people do because it's an expected and joyful tradition.