Funny Things to Do at a 50th Birthday Party

A 50th birthday party can be a lot of fun, and is a great way to celebrate a major milestone in a light-hearted way. While nostalgia and appreciation are appropriate at such an event, approaching the onset of age in a humorous way can keep things upbeat. Funny gifts, games and toasts at a 50th birthday party poke fun at the loss of youth and help keep everyone laughing.

A funny toast is one of the best ways to keep a party light-hearted. A hilarious personal anecdote or a 50th birthday-related joke both make great toasts. Don't be afraid of waxing sentimental, either: as long as your toast contains some light ribbing and material enough for a few laughs, talking about how much the birthday boy means to you and what an all-around excellent guy he is works fine in a humorous toast.

If you're the one planning the party, turning classic party games into age-related jokes can make the occasion even funnier. Musical Recliners or Pin-the-Toupee-on-the-Bald-Guy are both staples of this genre, but dozens of other such games are possible. You can also put together a personalized trivia game, and have guests guess the birthday girl's age in old pictures, or at the time of various historical events.

Gag gifts are another way to get a good laugh at a 50th birthday party. A retirement countdown clock is one great idea. Another gift sure to get laughter is 50 lollipops in a flower pot, with the label "Fifty Sucks." Or you can poke fun at old age with a huge bottle of prune juice, tied to a champagne glass with a satin ribbon. After he opens the package, propose a toast "to his health!"