Firstly, sixty is NOT old! Many sixty year olds are still at work, and contribute fully to the life of the family and the wider community. We're not talking OAPs here!

They type of party you throw for a sixty year old depends on the character of the person.You can't stereotype people of a certain age, just as you can't stereotype people of a certain gender or race.

A very gregarious person who likes to go out drinking and stay out till all hours might appreciate a night on the town, or at a casino. Perhaps you could have a casino-themed party where tables are brought in and everyone dresses like James Bond. Martini's all round!

A sixty year old would have been a teenager in the 1960s. This might be a good theme. Find out first if they hated it or not! If they loved it, get everyone to dress up in black and white and put the Beatles on the record player.

If the person you are throwing the party for is a quieter person, then perhaps a tea party would be nice. Have it outside, and give it an English theme with cake and sandwiches. Perhaps Pimms or iced tea would be nice! Dress the tables with flowers and floral tablecloths and hire a butler for the day. This theme could be adapted for indoors as a tea dance. Very elegant!

If the person you are throwing the party for has a large family, then make it a family event. Hire a marquee, get out the balloons and have some entertainment brought in, family-style. A magician would go down well.

A beach party is good if you are by the sea, or a pool party. This can be adapted to the age of the people attending. Just be careful of getting too drunk while swimming! Soft lights and music around an outside pool, with perhaps some beautiful catered food would be lovely.

How about a crafty party? Lots of places have now opened offering plate painting etc as a party idea. This isn't only for kids! Get a crowd of the girls together in a minibus and have a fun afternoon painting.

Finally, an idea for someone who just likes to chill out but has lots of friends. Have a community picnic. Just tell everyone the time and location and get them to bring some food. Tartan rugs, wicker baskets, frisbees for the younger ones, and everyone shares the goodies. Fab! (you just need to check everyone's not bringing the same food.)

Remember to check your idea with the person you are throwing the party for. They might have spend 59 years planning something!

Learn more about this author, Susan Hibberd.
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