An easy way to add a little more fun and excitement to the event is by choosing a theme. A theme gives you a central focus for décor, invitations, food selection and presentation, and more.
Once you choose a theme, it can make 40th birthday party planning a breeze!
We’ve got a ton of great 40th birthday party themes to suit a wide array of styles.
40th Birthday Party Themes – Choosing a Fabulous Theme for your Event
Ready to choose a theme and start planning an epic party, but not sure where to start? There’s a lot to consider when you’re contemplating just the right style and tone to set for a 40th birthday bash.
It’s important to create an atmosphere that makes the birthday celebrant feel extra special. 😀
Here are the most important aspects to keep in mind when thinking about the right theme to choose:
Time of Day or Night
Decide the best time of day to have the party. Some themes are well suited to an early event, while others work best for evening. Many themes can be ideal for any time of the day or night.
Season
Parties held during the spring, summer, or fall could be perfect for an outdoor location. Winter birthdays will likely need to be celebrated indoors, depending on where you live. Let the season be your guide when picking a place and selecting a theme to match.
Types of Guests
Think about who you’ll be inviting. Will it be an adults-only event, or will families and children be invited? Will you be including coworkers and friends? Some themes work best for a more grown up event, while others are fun for all ages.
Career Type
Consider what the birthday celebrant does for a living. If they love what they do, you may want to pick a theme that’s in some way related to their career or profession.
Hobbies and Interests of the Guest of Honor
Let the birthday guy or gal’s hobbies and interests be your guide. They’re sure to enjoy a theme that’s tied into their favorite pastime or activities that they enjoy.
Consider the Location of the Celebration
If you already have the party location determined, that can limit your theme choices. Some themes are better suited to a house party, while others can work in any venue.
Elegant Themes for a 40th Birthday Celebration
Perfect for a sophisticated birthday celebrant who enjoys the finer things in life, these elegant themes can turn any party place into an upscale atmosphere.
Here are a few chic 40th birthday themes to think about:
Black & Gold 40th Birthday Party
Keep the color scheme elegant, yet playful by opting for a fancy black & gold color theme.
Silver 40th Birthday Party
You simply can’t go wrong with a beautiful silver party theme.
Black & White Theme
A black and white theme is simple, yet classy and sophisticated.
Wine and Cheese Tasting 40th Birthday Party
A perfect pair, wine and cheese can make for a great theme for an adult-focused event.
Feminine 40th Birthday Party Themes
Looking for something sweet for the lovely lady celebrating her 40th?
These feminine 40th birthday themes have a softer style that could be ideal for the birthday girl:
Soft Pastels 40th Birthday Party
Keep the scheme simple with a soft pastel color palette.
Dainty Floral 40th Birthday Theme
Go for delicate floral to create a beautiful ambiance.
Rose Gold Birthday Party
Trendy, modern, and fresh, a rose gold party is sure to please.
Black, White & Hot Pink Party Theme
Celebrate 40 and fabulous with this bold, feminine color scheme.
40th Birthday Party Themes for Men
Looking for the perfect theme for a real man’s man?
These masculine ideas will bring a bit of brute and a whole lot of fun to the festivities:
Lumberjack Inspired 40th Birthday Party
Put on your favorite flannel for a manly lumberjack inspired celebration.
Camouflage 40th Birthday Theme
A camo theme could be perfect for the veteran, active duty serviceman, or the guy who loves to hunt.
Classic Cars 40th Birthday Party
Rev your engines for a cool classic car theme.
40th Birthday Party Themes for Travel Lovers
Let an exotic location or world renowned city inspire your celebration.
These themes work well for the 40th birthday celebrant who is always on the go, or just has a case of wanderlust and a desire see new places:
Luau Theme Birthday Party
Bust out the colorful leis with a laid back luau theme.
Mardi Gras Party
Go for a cool big easy style with a festive Mardi Gras party.
Tuscany Inspired Theme Party
Wine and cheese are on the menu with a beautiful Tuscany theme.
Margaritaville Inspired Theme Party
Sit back with a cocktail at a Margaritaville inspired event.
I Love NY Birthday Party
Get into an “empire” state of mind by throwing an I Love NYC themed party.
Paris Themed Birthday Party
Host a chic Parisian party with this feminine and fun theme.
Beach Theme Birthday Party
Get your Summer vibe on with a fun beach party theme!
Fun 40th Birthday Party Themes
Let the party theme inspire games and activities.
You can turn the celebration into a fun-filled interactive event with one of these exciting party themes:
Casino Themed Birthday Party
Take a gamble with a casino themed party.
Circus Themed Birthday Celebration
Head for the big top to celebrate with a colorful circus theme.
1950’s Retro Soda Shop Birthday Party Theme
Have a hopping good time by turning the party venue into a retro soda shop.
Year of Birth Themed Party
Take a look back at what life was like 40 years ago with a year of birth theme.
Hobbies & Interests Theme Ideas for a 40th Birthday Party
Everyone has activities that they enjoy outside of their professional life, like watching or participating in sports, enjoying great music, or getting dirty in the garden.
Focus on the guest of honor’s favorite hobby, pastime, or interests with one of these personalized party themes:
Golf Themed Birthday Party
A golf theme is sure to be a hole in one for the player who’s turning 40.
Fishing Theme Party
Get ready to reel in fun times with a fishing theme.
Gardening Theme Party
Grab the gloves and potting soil for a green gardening themed party.
Jazz Inspired Birthday Party
Play it cool with a laid back, yet classy jazz inspired celebration.
Racing Themed Birthday Party
Racing fans will love a car-themed party centered on their favorite sport.
Broadway Musical Theme Party
Give your regards to the birthday guy or gal with an upbeat Broadway themed event.
Vintage Wine Themed Birthday Party
Tell the guest of honor that they’ve aged like a fine wine with a classy vintage wine theme.
Old Hollywood Theme Party
Step back in time with an elegant old Hollywood theme.
BBQ 40th Birthday Party
Host a casual affair with food on the grill, games in the yard, and cold drinks in the cooler.
More 40th Birthday Party Themes to Consider
If you’re still searching for just the right theme, we’ve got even more to consider.
One of these ideas could be the fun and festive style you’re seeking for the ultimate 40th birthday celebration:
40 Reasons Why We Love You Birthday Party
Give the guest of honor 40 great reasons why they’re so special and loved with this heartfelt theme.
Nautical Themed 40th Birthday Party
It’s anchors away for a cool, beachy nautical themed celebration.
Zen Style Birthday Party
Create a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate 40 with a Zen style party.
Wild West Theme Birthday Party
Grab your hat and boots and head for fun with a Wild West theme.
Cottage Chic Theme Party
Transform the party place into a cozy cottage with a shabby chic theme.
Sound the Party Horns!
While it isn’t essential, a theme can make a party personalized and extra special for the birthday guy or gal. Choosing from fun themes will give you a clearer idea of how to decorate, the kinds of food to serve, and more. It’ll make 40th birthday party planning something to get even more excited about! Put some serious thought into it and select a party theme that you know the guest of honor will really love. You’ll be glad that you did, and so will they!pin these 40th Birthday party themes for later!
