19 fun & deep birthday party conversation starters

My first birthday party was at Kentucky Fried Chicken, and being the fast-food-deprived kid, I loved it.  Since then, I’ve been a fan of birthday parties — it’s a time of celebration, but it’s also …

My first birthday party was at Kentucky Fried Chicken, and being the fast-food-deprived kid, I loved it. 

Since then, I’ve been a fan of birthday parties — it’s a time of celebration, but it’s also a time of feasting!

If you’re invited to a birthday party, or you’re hosting one, here’s a list of questions to get people talking (beyond the basic “happy birthday!” or “thanks for coming/inviting”):

If you’re the guest 

Small talk 

  1. Busy day/evening preparing for the party?
  2. Who else did you invite to the party? 
  3. Can I help with anything? 
  4. One year older, one year wiser? (only if they are not sensitive about getting older)

These are great especially if the birthday boy/girl is running around trying to entertain everyone. 

Deeper questions 

  1. Any birthday wishes/reflections?
  2. What/who are you grateful for on your birthday?
  3. What have you learned since your last birthday?
  4. What do you hope to accomplish by your next birthday? 
  5. If you were granted three birthday wishes, what would they be? 

If there’s a quieter moment, these questions will lead to meaningful conversations. 

If you’re the host 

Small talk 

  1. When’s your birthday?  
  2. When was the last birthday party you attended? 
  3. Would you like some <specific food/drink>?
  4. What do you eat or drink on your birthday? 
  5. Do you ever celebrate celebrity birthdays? Why or why not?

Deeper questions 

  1. How do you celebrate your birthdays?
  2. What does your birthday mean to you? 
  3. What was your favorite birthday gift?
  4. What was your most memorable birthday celebration? 
  5. What’s your birthday wish for me?

Related articles