11 Outdoor Activities for Your Fall Birthday Celebration

Oct 03, 2016

So your birthday happens to be during the best time of the year, AKA fall. Lucky you! Before winter has you cooped up inside, why not stay out in the crisp autumn air and fill your big day with fun outdoor activities. How does a day at your favorite amusement park sound? Or perhaps a chic boat party with flowing Champagne is more your style. Or maybe, just maybe, you absolutely love glamping. Whatever it may be, we’ve got tons of outdoor-inspired ideas to choose from below. If you’re ready to take your birthday celebration to the next level, scroll on for 11 awesome outdoor birthday activities you and your friends will love. Happy planning!

1. Go hiking. Tell your friends to take a hike — with you on your birthday, of course! Head out and breathe in the fresh air of the great outdoors while exploring your local terrain. Bring reclining chairs or a large durable blanket and you’ll have an amazing opportunity to view the stars at night — just be sure to bring flashlights for the walk back!

2. Visit a pumpkin patch. Nothing says “fall” like visiting a pumpkin patch. Celebrate by making a day of this fun activity: Have your friends pile onto a hay ride and pick out the biggest pumpkin you can find. Then gather everyone together that night for a carving party — check out these creative pumpkin faces for inspo.

3. Go wine tasting. Get your buzz on this year and visit a winery or go wine tasting. If being a professional wine drinker was actually a real thing, we’d all be quitting our day jobs, ASAP. Since this isn’t a career we can realistically achieve, why not pretend for one day that it’s your job and go wine tasting for your birthday. And a party fit for wine-lovers isn’t complete without snacks. Make sure your wine adventure consists of delicious and tasty treats too: Here are some wine and cheese pairings to get you started.

4. Go on a bicycle scavenger hunt. If a cookie-cutter birthday celebration just won’t do, then it’s time for something new and exciting this year, like creating a bicycle scavenger hunt. Fill your clues with fun facts about your town or inside jokes that will leave your squad in stitches and lead them to the next clue. Decide on a hunt hashtag, and make sure teams posts photos of each solved clue to Instagram for proof. Fun Tip: Decorate your cruiser in your birthday party’s theme or colors, and plan a scheduled stop along the way so that you can have your cake and a celebratory toast.

5. Go apple picking. Fall is finally here, which means apples are ready for picking. After you share the joy of fruit picking with your family and friends, you can all meet in the kitchen for some delicious apple dessert creations. Try one or two (or three or four) of these yummy apple recipes.

6. Go glamping/camping. You love being outdoors, and camping is no exception — minus that fact that you camp like a glamorous celebrity. Glamping is the perfect way to celebrate your birthday. Not to mention, you can have unlimited s’mores (check out these recipes!) and booze with your friends underneath the stars. Make sure you bring these glamping must-haves, including plenty of blankets, pillows and an extra large mug for your hot cocoa.

7. Go on a pub bicycle tour. It’s a bar, it’s a bike, no… it’s a pub bicycle tour. This bicycle trolly is operated solely by you and your peddling besties, making it both a hilarious workout and a party on wheels. Most pub bicycle companies allow you to either book in advance or make an appointment on the whim. Make sure you leave your heels at home — we recommend wearing sneakers, booties or boots. (via Florida Fun Bikes)

8. Host a boat party. There’s no fancier way to celebrate your birthday than on the water with good friends and bubbly Champagne. Plus, you’ll be able to shout, “I’m on a boat!” If you plan gourmet menu selections and build the perfect party playlist, we can guarantee this birthday will be one you’ll never forget! (via Brit + Co)

9. Visit an amusement park. If you live for Disneyland, California Adventures and Universal Studios, you should totally visit one of your favorite amusement parks for your birthday. Yes, getting a hug from Mickey Mouse on your birthday is as amazing as it sounds. Don’t forget to wear your crown or sash so everyone knows it’s your big day. Planning Tip: Plan ahead by downloading or picking up a map of the park so that you cram in as much fun as possible in one day.

10. Go on a picnic. Now that the weather is *officially* under 100 degrees, a birthday picnic is totally what you need. There’s no better excuse to get together with your besties, lay out a plaid blanket, sip wine and snack on some delicious finger food.

11. Enjoy a backyard campfire. Even though your birthday is after the prime time for beach parties and strappy sandals, it’s during a season that’s perfect for chilly nights in the backyard with a cozy campfire. So gather ’round with your loved ones and celebrate your birthday under the stars. Perhaps a delicious s’more dessert pizza is what you need instead of a traditional birthday cake.

Will you host an outdoor-inspired birthday bash this year? For more creative party ideas, follow us on Pinterest!

(Photos via Getty)

14 Shots You’ll Actually Want To Take This New Year’s Eve

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.

Reese Witherspoon's Book Club January Pick Is Like 'First Lie Wins' Meets 'Evelyn Hugo'

As much as I've written about Reese Witherspoon's book club, you'd think I was on a first name basis with her (wishful thinking)! But, the truth is that it's the reason I rediscovered reading for fun. As informational as books can be, there's also joy, anguish, fear — and even spicy romance — to lose ourselves in. I'm become a firm believer in holding on to things that bring us joy so if your book stash is overflowing, you're going to love Reese's January pick for 2025.

Learn about Reese Witherspoon's Book Club pick for January 2025!

Amazon

The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan (New Release)

Cate Kay's a literary genius who's cracked the code of keeping readers engaged in her written work. She's also secured a film franchise that's made fans go wild. But, no one's ever seen Cate Kay or talked to her. She's an enigma on purpose.

You see, 'Cate Kay' and her bestie Amanda made plans to live lavish lives in California. They were so sure everything would work out until something awful happens that forces 'Cate Kay' to leave her real identity behind.

It's not until something forces her to make peace with where she comes from that 'Cate Kay' decides it's time to stop running from who she is.

Reese's Book Club

Here's What Reese Witherspoon Had To Say About The Three Lives of Cate Kay

Reese Witherspoon never shies away from telling her adoring fans why she chose a book and this month is no different. On her book club's official Instagram page, she wrote: "Have you ever felt like you were living more than one life? That’s exactly what Cate Kay is grappling with in our January pick, The Three Lives of Cate Kay by @KateFagan3. She’s a literary sensation, the face behind a blockbuster film trilogy, but her life isn’t what it seems. This story swept me away with its big dreams, love, and unexpected twists."

Visit our storefront to check out more of our top book picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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10 Booze-Free Ways To Ring In The New Year

When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, the first thought that probably springs to mind is boozing it up with an NYE cocktail. And while there's nothing wrong with sipping some bubbly (if that's your inclination), those of us who prefer to keep thingsnon-alc may feel like there are no New Year's-appropriate activities for our preferences. We say that nothing could be further from the truth! Whether you're pregnant, abstaining, or just taking a break from the booze, here are 10 fun ideas for ringing in 2025, the sober way.

Attend A Silent Disco

A few years ago, just as the sober-curious movement was gaining steam, companies like Daybreaker brought 6 a.m. sober dance parties to the masses. In a similar vein are remote silent discos – events where you put your headphones on and dance it out to the music of world-class DJs right in the comfort of your own home (or in person, if you feel like venturing out).

A quick Google search will reveal that there are tons of options to shake it off on New Year's Eve, whether remotely or in-person in your city. Because silent discos have an alternative vibe, they're much more sober-friendly than traditional clubs and dance parties.

Make A Tea Bar

Photo by Jill Wellington / PEXELS

If you've ever been to a party where they had aProsecco bar or something similar, you know how fun themed bars can be. Why not make a NA equivalent with a tea bar? We're not just talking about hot water and tea bags... include exciting staples like bubble tea, kombucha, Southern-style sweet iced tea, and more!

Do A Goal-Setting Ritual

Brit + Co

Not in the mood to party this year? Celebrate the New Year with some introspection by doing a goal-setting ritual. You can design the ritual in whatever manner you like, but we recommend something along the lines of:

Light a candle and sit quietly for a few minutes.
Whip out your journal and take inventory of the last year: What were your best memories? What are you grateful for? Where do you think you could've improved?
In your journal (we have some killer prompts to start you off), mindfully list out your goals for 2025. They don't have to be New Year's resolutions, exactly, but include small steps you can take in the new year to help you achieve your goals!

Make A 2025 Scrapbook

Brit + Co

Before New Year's Eve, head to your local craft store and pick up some supplies for making an old-fashioned scrapbook. Print out some photos from your most treasured memories of the year (we like printing with Walgreens), and gather any magazines you purchased or journal entries you wrote.

You can also look up some news headlines that made an impact on you, and print out the article as well as photos of any notable celebs or politicians who made the news. On New Year's eve, put together a scrapbook of what made 2024, 2024.

Good, bad, or otherwise, the year was one to remember — so create a momento that will help you re-live the past year in the years to come.

Plan A Costume Party

Brit + Co

Believe it or not, masquerade balls, dressing up in costumes, and concealing one's identity have a long history in the historical celebrations of Christmastime. So we think a New Year's costume party is a fully appropriate idea for a sober New Year's Eve.

Who needs booze to have fun when you can dress up as whoever you want for a night of merriment and mystery?

Karaoke It Up

Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

Another fun party pastime that's fun with or without booze? Singing! Grab some friends for a sober karaoke night either at your house or a private karaoke room. The singing's bound to be better than it would be if you were imbibing... who knows, maybe you'll steal the show with your rendition of "I'm Just Ken."

Cook A Fancy Meal

Whether you're spending the evening with your S/O or your BFF, cook a fancydinner for two. New Year's Eve is the perfect time to get fancy with food, so use this opportunity to ring in 2025 with only the finest cuisine. Don't forget to make a mocktail to go with!

Host A Game Night

Brit + Co

Bring all your besties over and host a board game night that's sure to be one for the books. Have everyone bring their favorite game – from Cards Against Humanity to Codenames – for a riotous evening that will remind you that you absolutely don't need booze to have a rowdy night of laughter!

Play 2024 Trivia

Photo by Askar Abayev / PEXELS

Before New Year's Eve, compile a long list of trivia questions about 2024. Alternatively, have a friend do it for you, or do a quick Google search... there are a lot of trivia quizzes out there. On the big night, gather your squad together to see how much you remember about 2024. The results may surprise you!

Host A Murder-Mystery Dinner

Image via Amazon

Murder-mystery dinners are still one of the best ways to facilitate a heart-racing and mind-boggling party. Pick up one of the many murder mystery dinner kits out there and have your besties over for a night of thinking on your toes — to be fair, it's probably best to skip the booze for this idea anyway, for the sake of your mental acuity.

Are you planning a sober New Year's Eve party this year? Tweet us @BritandCo to share your plans, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more booze-free hacks and party ideas!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.

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Pamela Anderson Just Gave The Most Relatable Reason For No-Makeup Life: "Saved A Lot Of Time"

After spending decades in the entertainment industry, some celebs like Pamela Anderson have opted for a makeup-free look. No one can forget when she stunned photographers right before Paris Fashion Week's Vivienne Westwood show last year by rocking a bare face. She told Vogue France, she wasn't thinking about not "wearing any makeup." However, she didn't want to "compete with the clothes" she was wearing. She felt "freedom" from not trying to "be the prettiest girl in the room" which speaks volumes to us!

Now, Pamela continues to embrace the no-makeup life — and not only does she look gorgeous, but she seems SO happy! The star shared recently how this lifestyle change impacts her day-to-day, and it's honestly incredibly relatable. Here's what she had to say!

Here's what Pamela Anderson just said about adopting a no-makeup life!

www.instagram.com

1. It saves her a lot of time.

Pamela Anderson stopped by the Live with Kelly and Markshow to talk about filming The Last Showgirl, her childhood, and how not wearing makeup has been beneficial for her. While her makeup-free clip from the episode isn't available on YouTube, PEOPLE reports hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos asking her how her decision has changed her life.

Ripa started with, "You don't travel with a glam squad. How liberating is that for you," while Consuelos followed with, "And how much time have you gotten back?"

The former Baywatch star said she's "saved a lot of time" and admitted that her sons "used to say that I spent half my life in a makeup chair."

www.instagram.com

2. She feels more focused in general.

Pamela Anderson also admitted things feel easier for her in general. "I feel like I could focus better when I did the film, too." And her life outside of that? She said she's "gotten out of wearing makeup and it's been fun."

It's interesting because Kelly Ripa shared she's been inspired by Pamela Anderson's makeup-free choice. She remembers not wearing makeup for a short while and said to herself, "'Pamela Anderson is a genius." Kelly even thought for a moment, "This is the way to live." We're so here for it!

www.instagram.com

3. She lives for a glam moment, but appreciates simplicity now.

Pamela's all for being makeup-free now, but she's not bashing glam moments. She actually "loved it" because "it's fun when you're new in the business and you get all this attention." She's just at a point where she's "done that" and wants to "simplify and keep it low key."

She really does "love being elegant, sophisticated" but has found what "works best" for her.

Is Pamela Anderson inspiring you to embrace a no-makeup life too? Let us know on Facebook!

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Um, Travis Kelce Just Spilled On His Dream Wedding Amid Taylor Swift Engagement Rumors

Do you hear wedding bells? Because after Tom Holland and Zendaya's engagement, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's engagement, and those Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson marriage rumors, it appears Hollywood does. And after all those Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift engagement rumors, Travis just spilled on his ideal wedding timeline — that's right, it appears our favorite IRL rom-com couple could be thinking about tying the knot!

Here's what Travis Kelce had to say about his least favorite time of year to get married.

Travis Kelce wants to avoid THIS wedding season for one reason.

@britandco #greenscreen do you think any of these will come true?! #taylorswift #traviskelce #tayvis #travistaylor #thealchemy #prpredictions ♬ the alchemy ts sped up - Swiftie_Jean-Alex 😁✨

On a new episode of the New Heights podcast he hosts with brother Jason, Travis Kelce revealed he would like to avoid an autumn wedding day. And the reason is literally so on brand it makes me laugh.

After a listener revealed over the phone that his girlfriend wants to schedule their wedding during football season, Travis admits that "I actually don't know people who've gotten married in the fall."

"My friends always do it in the summer," he says. "I've seen weddings everywhere but the fall. So, I'm not sure if the fall is a good wedding season."

The weather of an autumn wedding (not to mention the incredible aesthetic of the wedding photos!!) have always made it seem so dreamy. Plus, I've attended more than one summer wedding (some on the beach!) and it can get toasty under the summer sun. Spring then, Travis?

Travis' comments come after he responded to rumors that he'd pop the question to girlfriend Taylor Swift. During the June 1 Big Slick Celebrity Weekend's onstage comedy sketch, Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis asked Travis about a potential engagement. "Hey Travis, real talk, OK, just the guys here," Jason says. "When are you going to make an honest woman out of her?"

"Guys," Travis says, "you're really pushing it." It's a pretty kind way to say back off!! I'm excited for whenever Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce tell us they're engaged — should they choose to share at all.

Check out the latest news on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship!

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