Celebrating your birthday while attending BYU-Idaho is a unique and exciting opportunity to create lifelong memories with friends. Whether it’s your first year away from home or you’re a seasoned student, birthdays are a chance to pause and appreciate the connections you’ve built.
You don’t need a big budget to make your birthday special. With a little creativity and planning, you can throw a celebration that’s fun, meaningful, and perfectly suited to your student lifestyle. College is the time to enjoy life and create memories—what better occasion than your birthday to do just that?
Host a Themed Party at Your BYU-I Apartment
Throwing a themed birthday party is a fun way to celebrate and bond with friends while living at BYU-Idaho. Start by choosing a theme that everyone will enjoy, such as an ‘80s retro party with neon outfits and classic hits, a masquerade with masks and fancy costumes, or a cozy pajama party for a laid-back vibe.
Keep decorations and costumes budget-friendly by using DIY décor, thrift store finds, or printable props. For example, old CDs make perfect decorations for an ‘80s party, while fairy lights add charm to any event.
Plan activities to keep your guests entertained. A few ideas include ‘80s trivia, a DIY photo booth with props, karaoke, or a themed movie night. These activities will keep the energy high and make your party memorable.
No matter what you do, be sure to follow housing rules and show respect to your roommates. Keep noise levels reasonable, clean up shared spaces afterward, and communicate your plans in advance to ensure everyone is on board. With a little planning and creativity, your themed party can be a fun and respectful success!
Plan a Group Adventure
Sometimes, the best memories are made outside your apartment! Plan a group adventure to explore the beautiful surroundings of Rexburg and beyond. Consider a local getaway, such as hiking nearby trails, taking a trip to the lake, visiting Idaho Falls, or relaxing at a local hot spring. These outings are a great way to enjoy nature and connect with friends.
For something closer to campus, organize a scavenger hunt or outdoor picnic. BYU-I’s scenic spots are perfect for group activities and don’t require much planning or expense. If you prefer indoor fun, visit local attractions like escape rooms, bowling alleys, or a country dance night.
Another meaningful option is to gather a small group of friends and volunteer for a cause you care about. Whether it’s helping at a local shelter, cleaning up parks, or participating in a community project, giving back together can strengthen friendships and make a positive impact. Whatever you choose, planning a group adventure is a great way to create lasting memories and strengthen your BYU-I experience.
Have a Cozy Night at Your Student Housing Complex
Sometimes, the best way to celebrate is with a relaxing night in. Invite your friends over to your apartment and start with a movie marathon featuring your favorite films, along with plenty of popcorn and snacks to share. Consider picking a theme, like classic comedies or action-packed blockbusters.
You could also plan a DIY spa night. Gather supplies like face masks, nail polish, and soothing music to create a spa-like atmosphere in your apartment. Invite your friends to join you for a night of self-care and fun.
For a more lively evening, organize a game night. Whether you prefer board games, video games, or card games, you can play all of them in your apartment. Classics like Monopoly, Mario Kart, or Uno are always crowd-pleasers and will add a bit of lighthearted competition to your night.
Whatever you choose, a cozy night in is the perfect way to unwind and create meaningful connections with your roommates and friends.
Treat Yourself to Something Special
College life often requires pennies, and spending money on non-essentials can be difficult. However, you might consider saving some extra cash before your birthday to splurge on a nice meal, gift, or dessert you usually wouldn’t treat yourself to.
There are many ways to earn extra money while in college, such as delivery driving, freelance work, or babysitting. Using your resources wisely will help you have a little extra to spend on your birthday.
If you want a more budget-friendly option, consider spending the day doing something you love. Treating yourself to a self-care day is one way to recharge and celebrate simultaneously. Take time to try something new or participate in your favorite hobby, such as reading, crafting, cooking, exploring, or being active.
Combine Celebrations With Friends
If you share a birthday month with friends, why not host a joint celebration? Collaborate to plan a party everyone can enjoy while splitting the costs for decorations, food, and entertainment. This makes it easier to throw a fantastic event without breaking the bank.
To keep things even more budget-friendly, consider organizing a potluck-style gathering where each guest brings a dish to share. Doing so adds variety to the menu, divides up the costs, and creates a sense of community. Combining celebrations with friends is a fun and economical way to make your birthdays unforgettable.
Find Joy in Your Private Men’s and Women’s BYU-I Student Housing
The best birthday celebrations are about creating lasting memories—often in the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s a cozy night in, a themed party, or a simple potluck with friends, what matters most is the joy and connection you create.
Make your celebrations even more special by finding the perfect student housing. Apply today or reach out to Hillcrest Townhouses, where you can enjoy a welcoming community and a comfortable place to call home.