My Oldest Son's Birthday

Today is my oldest son's birthday. He is 25 today, so I am going to talk about birthday traditions.

In America, children's birthdays are usually quite festive, with a party for the birthday child. Those invited include friends, relatives, and neighbors. There is some debate amongst parenting experts on how many guests are appropriate for the age of the child, and also for how long the party should be held. Younger children don't have the ability to go for hours, plus the changes a party brings to one's daily routine might only be tolerated by young children well for a short period of time.

Adults, though, can find that their entire day is a reason for mini-celebrations. There might be breakfast in bed, made for them by a significant other, or even a roommate. Then there might be a small party at work, or plans for one after work. Then at home, there might be another celebration. Either might even be a surprise, and unknown to the person until everyone jumps out and yells 'surprise!!'

One tradition in America is that the person with the birthday pins a dollar to his or her shirt before leaving for work. Everyone who meets that person face to face and who has an extra dollar, gives it to be pinned to the shirt with the original dollar. Of course, this is most profitable for those who work with the public and meet many people during their working day.

What are some birthday traditions from your country or culture?