Every student loves an excuse to go out and do something fun instead of wasting away in the library, and a birthday is the perfect reason. Being somewhere different gives you an opportunity to create new memories and put yourself (or the birthday person, if it’s not you) first for a day.
Some of my favourite days in Newcastle have been spent celebrating with my favourite people over five pound wine and Aldi crisps.
Personally, I love making a big deal about mine and my friends’ birthdays. It might feel impossible to have a fitting celebration without breaking the bank, but it’s important to remember that who you’re with is more important than how much you spend. Some of my favourite days in Newcastle have been spent celebrating with my favourite people over five pound wine and Aldi crisps.
While a night out might be the most obvious answer, there are plenty of other ways to fill your day if you’d rather skip the club or celebrate before 11pm. A walk through Jesmond Dene or a beach day in Tynemouth would be my go-to suggestions for a quieter (and free!) birthday, especially with the return of spring sunshine. Or, you could DIY your own fancy birthday meal by cooking with friends. For a recent birthday, my friends and I each put in a few pounds and splashed out on picky bits from M&S Food Hall. With some good company and games or a film, this makes for the perfect cosy night in with a special touch.
your presence is a present too!
A sentimental card is the perfect gift for most people, but Newcastle is of course home to plenty of shops and markets where you can find affordable and thoughtful gifts. Don’t feel the pressure to go over your budget to buy, though—your presence is a present too!
No matter what your day looks like, birthdays at university should always be something special. Breaking up the semester with fun events is an absolute must to keep your sanity amongst deadlines and exams, and there’s no better opportunity than celebrating another lap around the sun.