Birthday Traditions and Etiquette Around the World – Complete Guide

Looking for birthday traditions around the world? We’ve gathered the complete guide for worldwide birthday traditions – including celebrations, gifting etiquette, and more.

Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a thoughtful gift or a memorable gift experience.

To help you explore traditions all around the world, this article is organized into:

Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Asia

From elaborate ceremonies to simple yet meaningful gestures, Asian birthday traditions offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the region. 

Let’s explore some of the most captivating customs and rituals observed in various Asian countries to mark the joyous occasion of birthdays.

Korean Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Age on New Year’s: Koreans consider everyone a year older on Lunar New Year, not their individual birthdays. So, although you might be 25 internationally, in Korea, you might be 26 if born before the Lunar New Year.
• Birthday Numerology: Koreans believe certain numbers hold special meanings on birthdays. For example, the number 8 symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
• Birthday Colors: Different birthdays are associated with specific colors, and some Koreans like to decorate or dress accordingly.

Do’s in Gifting

• Money in special envelopes called “sebaetdon” is a universally appreciated and safe gift option. Choose crisp bills in new condition.
• Consider personalizing your gift with a handwritten card or message.
• If invited to a home celebration, bring a small token of appreciation for the host, like fruit or flowers.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Don’t give used items or sharp objects, which symbolize bad luck.
• Don’t forget to wrap your gift beautifully; presentation matters in Korean culture.
• Don’t arrive empty-handed, even if it’s a casual gathering.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Korea.

Japanese Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Birthday Celebrations are New: Birthday celebrations have become common only in the last century, with pivotal birthdays for children and adults holding special significance. 

• Aging on New Year’s: Before the 1950s, Japanese babies were considered one year old at birth, and everyone celebrated their aging on New Year’s Day. 
• Western Culture Influence: The tradition of celebrating individual birthdays emerged. Today, birthday parties in Japan typically involve a small gathering, a birthday cake with candles, and the singing of the Happy Birthday song, which might be in English or Japanese

Do’s in Gifting

• Consider practical gifts like gift cards or money in decorative envelopes.
• Wrap your gift beautifully! Presentation matters a lot in Japan.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Don’t give personal items like clothing or perfumes, as it can be seen as intrusive.
• Don’t be surprised if your gift isn’t opened immediately. It’s considered polite to wait until after the celebration.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Japan.

Chinese Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Counting Ages: In China, a newborn is considered one year old, so a child’s second birthday in the West is their third by Chinese counting.
• Choosing the Right Date: Elders plan the birthday, choosing a lucky day based on the Lunar calendar and the child’s zodiac sign.
• Celebrate Only on The Date: It’s considered bad luck to celebrate one’s birthday after the actual birth date.

Do’s in Gifting

• Give gifts that symbolize health, longevity, and prosperity, such as fruits or tea.
• It does not matter whether your gift is expensive and big or not. 
• it is important to present your gift with both hands as a sign of respect.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Avoid giving taboo gifts such as clocks, watches, sharp objects, or shoes, as they are associated with bad luck. Clocks or watches sound similar to the word death in Mandarin.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in China.

Filipino Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Handaan: Filipino birthdays are often marked by “handaan,” which refers to lavish feasts or gatherings where family and friends come together to celebrate. These gatherings are typically held at the celebrant’s home or in rented venues.
• Family is central: Birthdays are seen as an opportunity to strengthen family bonds, with large gatherings and celebrations involving extended family and friends. 
• Singing and dancing: Filipinos love to sing and dance, making birthdays lively and joyous occasions. It is very common for families to set up karaoke in their homes for unlimited sing-offs when a family member is celebrating their birthday.

Do’s in Gifting

• Consider bringing a small gift or token of appreciation when attending a birthday celebration. The more thoughtful and personal the gift is (such as the celebrant’s favorite food or things), the more it is appreciated. 
• Consider cash gifts in decorative envelopes, as they are practical and appreciated.
• Wrap your gift beautifully, as presentation matters.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Don’t give sharp objects like knives or scissors, as they symbolize bad luck.
• Don’t be offended if your gift isn’t opened immediately. It’s considered polite to wait until after the celebration.
• Avoid giving gifts that are overly extravagant or expensive, as this may cause discomfort or embarrassment for the recipient (depending on your level of closeness).

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in the Philippines.

Indian Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Tying of Sacred Thread: In some regions of India, it’s a tradition for parents to tie a sacred thread, known as a “rakhi,” around the wrist of their child on their birthday. This symbolizes protection and blessings from the divine.

• Special Puja: Many Indian families start the birthday celebration with a special puja, or prayer ceremony, dedicated to the well-being and prosperity of the birthday person. Offerings of flowers, incense, and sweets are made to the gods.
• Charitable Acts: It’s common for Indians to perform acts of charity on their birthday, such as feeding the poor, donating to charitable organizations, or sponsoring meals for the needy. This tradition reflects the values of compassion and service to others.

Do’s in Gifting

• Consider Giving Money: Giving money as a gift, known as “shagun,” is common in India, especially among relatives and close friends. It allows the recipient to purchase something they truly desire.
• Respect Cultural Norms: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities when selecting gifts. Avoid items made of leather or anything that could be considered inappropriate or offensive in Indian culture.
• Present Gifts with Both Hands: When offering a gift, use both hands as a sign of respect. This gesture is considered polite and shows sincerity.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Avoid Giving White Flowers: In Indian culture, white flowers are typically associated with funerals and mourning. Choose colorful blooms or other types of flowers for birthday gifts instead.
• Don’t Give Clocks or Watches: Clocks and watches are considered symbols of time running out, so they’re not suitable as birthday gifts in Indian culture. Opt for other thoughtful gifts instead.
• Refrain from Giving Sharp Objects: Sharp objects like knives or scissors are associated with cutting ties or relationships in Indian culture. It’s best to avoid them as birthday gifts.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in India.

Vietnamese Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Family-Centered: Birthdays emphasize intimate family gatherings over large parties.
• First Birthday Significance: Known as “đầy tháng/đầy năm,” it marks a child’s health and survival with prayers and offerings to ancestors.
• Blend of Traditions: Incorporates both traditional rituals and modern Western-style parties, showcasing Vietnam’s cultural adaptability.

Do’s in Gifting

• Opt for practical items like fruits, sweets, books, or tea. These are appreciated for their usefulness and enjoyment.
• When giving money, place it inside a red envelope to signify good luck.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Do not give knives or scissors as they can represent severing ties.
• Steer clear of gifts with negative connotations, such as handkerchiefs (farewells), items with the number four (death), or clocks (passing of time or end of relationships).

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Vietnam.

Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Europe

From ancient traditions rooted in folklore to modern-day festivities influenced by global trends, European birthday traditions offer a rich tapestry of heritage and diversity. 

Let’s delve into some of the captivating customs and rituals observed across Europe to mark the joyous occasion of birthdays.

German Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Pre-Birthday Wishes: It’s considered bad luck to wish someone a “Happy Birthday” before their actual birthday.
• Cake and Candles: Birthday cakes are adorned with candles corresponding to the person’s age, plus one for good luck, followed by a wish before blowing them out.
• Adult Celebrations: Adults inviting others out to a restaurant for their birthday is common, with the celebrant covering the bill.

Do’s in Gifting

• Germans value thoughtful, practical gifts more than expensive ones.
• Properly wrapped gifts signify effort and care, with a preference for tasteful, understated wrapping paper.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Flowers should be given in odd numbers (avoiding 13) and avoid white chrysanthemums, which are for funerals.
• Red roses are typically reserved for romantic gestures.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Germany.

Italian Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• La Torta in Faccia: In certain regions of Italy, particularly in southern regions like Sicily and Calabria, it’s a playful tradition to smash a piece of birthday cake into the birthday person’s face.  This lighthearted gesture is believed to bring good luck and laughter, symbolizing a wish for abundance and joy in the coming year. 

• La Vigilia di Compleanno: The night before a birthday, known as “la vigilia di compleanno,” holds special significance in Italian culture. It is often celebrated with a festive dinner attended by family and close friends, setting the stage for the main birthday celebration the following day. 
• Your birthday, your treat: In Italy, the birthday person usually pays for the celebration. If you invite friends for dinner or drinks, you’re expected to cover the bill. Many people prefer home celebrations to save money. At work, the birthday person brings treats to share.

Do’s in Gifting

• Consider bringing a thoughtful gift, such as a bottle of fine wine, artisanal chocolates, or a bouquet of fresh flowers.
• Consider practical gifts like gift cards, experiences, or homemade items.
• Wrap your gift nicely, presentation matters in Italy.

Don’ts in Gifting

• It’s best to steer clear of using black or purple when wrapping a gift. These colors can represent mourning or grief, and bad luck, respectively.
• It’s not considered polite to show how much you’ve spent on a gift. Make sure to remove or cover the sticker price to avoid any embarrassment or awkwardness.
• ​​Don’t arrive empty-handed. If attending a birthday celebration, it’s considered impolite to arrive without a gift or something to contribute to the celebration.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Italy.

Spanish Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• La Mordida: A playful tradition in Spain involves pushing the birthday person’s face into the cake after blowing out the candles. This jovial act symbolizes good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
• Felicitaciones a los Santos: In addition to celebrating their actual birth date, many Spaniards also celebrate their “saint’s day,” which is the feast day of the saint they were named after. This double celebration adds an extra layer of festivity to the occasion.
• Las Mañanitas: In some regions of Spain, it’s customary to wake up the birthday person with a lively serenade of “Las Mañanitas,” a traditional Spanish birthday song filled with well-wishes and joyful melodies.

Do’s in Gifting

• Consider Personalized Gifts: Spaniards appreciate thoughtful and personalized gifts that reflect the recipient’s interests or preferences. Taking the time to choose something meaningful shows your thoughtfulness.
• Bring Flowers or Chocolates: It’s common to bring a small gift when attending a birthday party in Spain. Flowers, particularly roses, or a box of chocolates are well-received gestures of goodwill.
• Write a Thoughtful Card: Including a handwritten birthday card with warm wishes is a thoughtful gesture appreciated by many Spaniards. Take the time to write a personalized message expressing your well-wishes.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Don’t Arrive Empty-Handed: It’s considered impolite to attend a birthday celebration in Spain without bringing a gift. Even a small token of appreciation, like flowers or chocolates, is customary.
• Don’t Overlook Host/Hostess Gifts: If you’re invited to someone’s home for a birthday celebration, consider bringing a host/hostess gift in addition to the birthday present. This could be a bottle of wine, a gourmet food item, or a decorative item for their home.
• Avoid Giving Expensive Gifts: While it’s thoughtful to give a gift, avoid going overboard with expensive presents. In Spain, modesty is valued, and extravagant gifts may be seen as inappropriate or ostentatious.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Spain.

Russian Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Celebrating after your birthday: Unlike most countries, birthdays are officially celebrated on or after the actual date, often on the weekend for convenience.
• No candles? No problem: While birthday cakes are enjoyed, blowing out candles isn’t as prominent. Russians often make a silent wish and take a bite.
• Pulling the ears: For children, a fun (and slightly painful) custom involves pulling their ears for each year of age plus one, accompanied by a chant for good health.

Do’s in Gifting

• Wrap your gift nicely, as presentation matters in Russia.
• Present your gift with both hands as a sign of respect and sincerity.
• Consider the recipient’s “dusha” (soul). Does the gift reflect their personality, hobbies, or shared jokes? 

Don’ts in Gifting

• Don’t give sharp objects like knives or scissors, as they symbolize bad luck.
• Avoid giving yellow flowers, as they are associated with funerals and are considered unlucky in Russian culture.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Russia.

French Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Lavish Feasts: Celebrations often include elaborate meals with friends and family, showcasing French culinary excellence.
• Gourmet Cakes: A centerpiece of the celebration, often a luxurious or custom-made cake, highlighting France’s pastry prowess.
• Singing Age-Old Songs: “Joyeux Anniversaire,” the French version of “Happy Birthday,” is sung, along with other traditional songs that may vary by region.

Do’s in Gifting

• Prioritize practical and thoughtful gifts that align with the recipient’s interests, hobbies, and everyday needs.
• When giving flowers, ensure that bouquets have an odd number of flowers, but never 13 (considered bad luck in most European countries). 

Don’ts in Gifting

• When giving wine, ensure it is of good quality, as France appreciates fine foods and drinks.
• Avoid giving anything related to the number 13.
• When choosing flowers, look for ones with subtle aromas so as to not overwhelm the recipient’s home.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in France.

Polish Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Prywatki: Home parties which are a long-standing tradition in Poland.
• Sto lat: The birthday chant in Poland means “100 years,” and everyone sings it to wish the birthday person a long and happy life.

Do’s in Gifting

• Wrap gifts nicely.
• Give flowers in odd numbers as it is considered good luck (but not 13, which is considered bad luck in most European countries)
• Personal, thoughtful gifts are valued over expensive, showy ones.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Avoid giving gifts related to the number 13.
• When giving flowers, do not give yellow chrysanthemums, as they are associated with funerals.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Poland.

Greek Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Name Day Celebrations: In addition to birthdays, Greeks also celebrate their “name day,” which is the feast day of the saint they are named after. Name day celebrations often include gatherings with family and friends, special meals, and religious observances.
• Smashing Plates: In some regions of Greece, it’s a tradition to smash plates or pottery on the ground during birthday celebrations to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the birthday person.
• Candle and Bread Ritual: Another tradition involves placing candles on a special bread called “artoklasia” and having the birthday person make a wish before blowing them out, similar to blowing out candles on a birthday cake.

Do’s in Gifting

• Bring a Gift: It’s customary to bring a gift when attending a birthday celebration in Greece. Choose something thoughtful, such as flowers, wine, or a box of sweets.
• Consider Symbolism: Greeks appreciate gifts with symbolic meaning. Opt for items like olive oil, traditional Greek sweets, or a decorative item featuring the evil eye symbol, believed to bring good luck and protect from harm.
• Show Appreciation: If you’re invited to someone’s home for a birthday party, show gratitude for their hospitality by bringing a small host or hostess gift, like pastries or a souvenir.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Avoid White Lilies: In Greek culture, white lilies are associated with funerals. Opt for other flowers for celebratory occasions like birthdays.
• Don’t Discuss Gift Costs: It’s considered impolite to discuss the price of gifts in Greece. Focus on the sentiment behind the gift rather than its monetary value.
• Refrain from Arriving Empty-Handed: Showing up without a gift is frowned upon in Greek culture. Even a small token of appreciation is better than arriving empty-handed.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Greece.

Portuguese Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Morning Surprise: Friends and family gather outside the birthday person’s home early in the morning to sing “Happy Birthday” as they wake up, starting the day with love and laughter.
• Thank you song: Not only does the birthday boy/girl receives blessings (the birthday song) from friends and family, but in return, they also have a “thank you song” to sing back in return.

Do’s in Gifting

• The birthday boy or girl usually pays for the meal, and friends typically bring gifts to the celebration.
• Good quality chocolates, candy, flowers, or upscale souvenirs from your home country are suitable gift choices.
• If your host says you don’t need to bring anything, it’s polite to bring a small gift anyway.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Rejecting any gift is seen as offensive in Portuguese culture.
• Avoid giving 13 of the same item, as the number 13 is considered a bad omen in Portugal (just like most other European countries).

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Portugal.

Bulgarian Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Morning Greeting with Bread: The celebrant is often greeted with a decorated round loaf of bread, symbolizing prosperity and health.
• Folk Music and Dances: Celebrations can feature traditional Bulgarian folk music and dances, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
• Water Ritual: Pouring water in front of the birthday person as they leave the house to ensure good health, success, and a smooth path forward.
• Personal Reflection: Birthdays serve as a time for reflection on personal growth and future aspirations.

Do’s in Gifting

• Ideal gifts include Bulgarian wine, fine chocolates, or fresh flowers.
• When gifting items like handbags, wallets, or suitcases, add a coin to symbolize future wealth.
• Only give flowers in even numbers, as odd numbers are reserved for funerals.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Focus on thoughtfulness rather than the price.
• Sharp objects like knives, scissors or shoes are seen as bad omens.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Bulgaria.

More Birthday Traditions and Etiquette Around the World

Birthdays are celebrated in diverse and fascinating ways across the globe, with each culture adding its unique touch to the festivities. 

From the vibrant fiestas of Mexico to the serene rituals of Hawaii and the heartfelt traditions of Israel, birthday celebrations reflect the values, beliefs, and heritage of their respective societies. Let’s continue explore more birthday traditions and etiquette.

Mexican Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Piñata: A vibrant, festive highlight filled with sweets, symbolizing fun and joy. This is typically at children’s birthday parties.
• Serenading: The birthday individual is serenaded with the traditional “Las Mañanitas” song, offering a heartwarming start to the day.
• Cake and La Mordida: An elaborately decorated cake with a hidden figurine for good luck, followed by “La Mordida,” where the birthday person’s face is playfully pushed into the cake.

Do’s in Gifting

• When giving gifts in Mexico, focus on the sentiment rather than the monetary value.
• Gifts that reflect Mexican culture, like artisan crafts or local sweets, are always appreciated.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Avoid giving yellow, red, or purple flowers, as they carry negative connotations or are associated with death and funerals.
• It’s impolite to ask a host or associate what kind of gift they or their children would like to receive.
• Avoid giving gifts bought at tourist attractions in Mexico.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Mexico.

Jewish Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Reading the Torah: When it’s your birthday, going to the synagogue and reading from the Torah is a special way to celebrate. This is really important for kids celebrating their Bar or Bat Mitzvah because it’s a big step in their faith journey.
• Thinking About Life: Birthdays are a perfect time to think about what you’ve done and what you want to do next. It’s like having your own New Year’s Day where you make promises to yourself to be better in the coming year.
• Praying and Learning: Some people like to say special prayers or study important religious texts on their birthday. It’s a way to ask for wisdom and help from God for the next year of their life.

Do’s in Gifting

• Opt for simple, modest, yet thoughtful items.
• A mezuzah can be a meaningful gift for Jewish homes, ensuring any contained scroll aligns with Jewish law. 
• Acts of kindness, such as invitations to dinner, maybe valued over material gifts​​.

Don’ts in Gifting

• Extravagance or overly personal gifts are not preferred.
• Avoid pig-related products.
• Avoid alcohol unless you are sure the recipient drinks.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Israel. 

Hawaiian Birthday Traditions and Etiquette

• Big Luau Parties: In Hawaii, the first birthday is a huge deal. People throw a big party called a luau with lots of food, music, and family.
• Dancing the Hula: At birthday parties, you might see the hula dance. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate and show Hawaiian culture.
• Giving Leis: It’s common to give leis, which are flower necklaces, on birthdays. They show love and respect and make the birthday person feel special.

Do’s in Gifting

• Choose gifts that mean something special. Think about what the person likes.
• How you present your gift matters a lot. Make sure it looks good on the outside too!
• Native plants or special flowers make for great gifts.

Don’ts in Gifting

• When you get a gift, always say how thankful you are. It shows you appreciate the effort they put in.
• Giving shoes or slippers might be seen as bad luck. It’s like you’re saying someone could walk away from you.
• If you’re thinking about giving plants or flowers, choose ones that are good for Hawaii’s nature.

Want to explore more? Here is our full article on Birthday Traditions and Etiquette in Hawaii.

Conclusion

Birthdays serve as vibrant expressions of culture, tradition, and community across the globe. Whether it’s blowing out candles, sharing a meal with loved ones, or offering prayers of gratitude, birthdays serve as reminders of our shared humanity and the universal joy of marking another trip around the sun.

Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a a memorable gift experience or a thoughtful gift. Here’s to the vibrant spectrum of global birthdays, where every tradition brings its own special sparkle to our shared celebration of life!