Turning 50

Many people find getting older a bit difficult, but whether you like it or not, turning 50 is a true milestone! You’re officially half a century old. This special age is often celebrated with a big party, but how you celebrate it is entirely up to you. A dinner with family, a huge party, or a day just for yourself – anything goes for your 50th birthday!

Abraham and Sarah

In Dutch tradition, when you turn 50, it’s said that you’ve “seen Abraham.” This expression comes from the Bible – Sarah and her husband Abraham are known as patriarchal figures, and they had a child at an old age. Back in the early 20th century, the life expectancy in Belgium was around 50 years, making this age quite significant.

Women used to also be said to have “seen Abraham,” but since the 1950s the female version has become “seeing Sarah.” Since then, the two names have represented men and women turning 50.

50th Birthday Traditions

Today, many people don’t really know the origins of Abraham and Sarah, but the traditions remain. It’s become more of a fun way for friends and family to play a lighthearted prank on the birthday person.

In the past, people made bread dolls or Abraham-shaped cakes – likely for symbolic or religious reasons. Bread symbolizes life – “long may he live.” This eventually evolved into cake, and nowadays, life-sized dolls or blow-ups are placed in the yard of the birthday person.

Usually, a doll of Abraham or Sarah is placed in the garden the night before the birthday. Those who place it are often invited in for snacks and drinks. You can also surprise the birthday person by doing it while they’re away. Some even put a half Abraham or Sarah in the yard for a 25th birthday, as you’re then “halfway to 50.”

How to Celebrate a 50th Birthday?

Most people throw a big party for their 50th, but not everyone likes getting older or wants to shout from the rooftops that they’re turning 50. In that case, a quiet celebration with close family and a few friends – or even no celebration – is perfectly fine.

Big Celebration

If you’re going all out, decide whether you’ll host the party at home or rent a venue, like a restaurant with a private space. Usually, the staff handles drinks, food, and service. Set a budget beforehand, and coordinate food and drinks with the venue. Having your party outside of your home means less stress and no clean-up!

Consider capturing the memories with photos. Hiring a professional photographer is expensive, but a great alternative is a party photo app. Guests can take photos that appear live on a screen, and you control which photos get saved and shared. It’s fun, cheaper, and very interactive!

Surprise Party

If someone doesn’t want a party or decorations in the yard, friends or family can still organize a surprise party. But always respect their wishes – keep it small and invite only close loved ones.

Gift Ideas for a 50-Year-Old

What do you give someone turning 50? Decide whether to highlight the age or not. You don’t have to buy a gift – cash is also an option, and you can get creative with how you present it. While people normally give around €20 for birthdays, €50 is common for a 50th birthday. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer not to show how much you spent, go for a thoughtful gift instead. Want to give something bigger? Pool money with others for a group gift.