No, of course you don’t have to have a big party when turning 40. I didn’t and also didn’t have a big party when turning 50

No, you don’t have to. It can be awkward when people are pushy like that but it’s your day. If you don’t want a party, that’s up to you.

It’s your birthday. If you really don’t want to celebrate, then don’t. If people think you are crazy, that is their issue. The thing is, sometimes they are more hassel than not. Tell those who care about you, and support you, what you really want to do and they should respect you enough to do the thing you want to do. Some people think big celebrations are the way to go, but the fact of the matter is that most of the time, smaller are better.

It’s your birthday, regardless of the age reached, you shouldn’t be pushed to do anything you don’t really want to. It’s your day, do what you want to enjoy yourself

I went away on a girls weekend with my close friends to celebrate my 40th. It was quality time with my special friends, mum and sisters that I will cherish and means more to me than a party.

You dont have to have a big 40th. My mother invited family from overseas. We had a small dinner at a restaurant.

It’s your birthday so do as you want to.

You do what works best for you but maybe instead of saying that you are doing nothing say you have a nice dinner planned with your family or something you will do for yourself to celebrate.

If you don’t want to then dont! I will be going away to QLD for mine, as I would rather spend the money on making memories with my family

The choice is entirely yours. Most people think they are doing the right thing however it benefits them more than you. Don’t bow to pressure enjoy your birthday the way you want to.

I agree with you …. I honestly don’t know why some people want a big party for their 40th, it’s hardly a milestone like 18 or 21 …. some people just want a party for the sake of having a party! Lol! I didn’t have a party, just went out to dinner with family. Stick to your guns if you really don’t want one!

No big party for any 40th that I know of, only family. My parents never wanted big parties.
We had our 21st birthday parties in our double garage. It was relatives and a few close friends. We set the food up as smorgasboard and the cold drinks were in our old metal baby bath with ice. My Mum made our cakes and decorated them. We didn’t see the decorations until just before the party.