Since this is the last year the millennial generation turns 30, The Guide reached out to three generations, those born in the 1980s, 1990s, and the 2000s to find out how birthdays were celebrated when they were growing up.

The 1980s

>> Return gifts being fragrant erasers and Love Art sketch pens

>> Crepe paper streamers and simple DIY decor

>> “Happy Birthday” banner as the main highlight

Harshita Ingole, 40, doctor, Borivli

The 1990s

>> Hard-boiled sweets like Alpenliebe and Ravalgaon

>> Rasna served generously

>> 99-in-1 brick game consoles

Pinata as a party activity

Gauravh Garrgya, 34, media professional, Dadar

The 2000s

Face painters and temporary tattoo artists

>> Live food and pasta stations

>> Personalised photo mugs as return gifts

Neon-themed parties with glow accessories

Kavya Kaushik, 20, student, Andheri

Check out how to plan your own ’90s birthday.

How to throw a 90s-themed birthday party

Lock the theme early: Centre the concept around everyday ’90s nostalgia; for example, simple living, shared moments, and pre-digital culture

Go bold with decor: Use bright, clashing colours, retro TV cut-outs, and classic Bollywood posters

Curate an authentic playlist: Blend Bollywood hits (Govinda, SRK-Kajol), English Indie-pop tracks, and nostalgic ad jingles for layered familiarity

Plan simple and high-energy games: Include lemon-and-spoon, sack races, and passing the parcel

Keep food nostalgic: Serve samosas, cutlets, noodles, pineapple pastries, with Rasna, Frooti, and soft drinks

Design memorable return gifts: Prepare hampers with Poppins, Melody, and small toys or stationery packed in quirky retro-style wrapping

Focus on the details: Use paper invites, slam books, comics, and note diaries

Keep it simple and classic: Start with light music and mingling, build into games and dancing. Close with cake and a wind-down

Inputs by Devyani Sahu, 26, founder, CEO and wedding planner, Kalyan