No matter your race, religion or country of origin, the one holiday that everyone celebrates is their birthday. Some are major milestones, others are just another notch along the way. Some people love their birthdays and go all out each year, relishing surprise parties and the big deal made over them for that day. Other people would rather their birthday pass quietly, with as little fanfare as possible. But everyone loves free stuff, and your birthday is the one day of the year that you are guaranteed to find fantastic free stuff offered up to you with a smile. Here’s a quick look at some of the best things you can get for free on your birthday.
While you’re far more used to receiving presents on your birthday, it’s also a great day to go shopping. Many of the major brands offer some pretty good discounts on your birthday. Make a list of your favorite labels and head to their websites a month or so before the big day. In some cases you’ll have to sign up for an email list or print out a coupon. But brands like Old Navy, American Eagle and Columbia Sportswear all offer birthday discounts of at least 15%. If you’re in the market for some beauty or styling products head to Sephora and Aveda. Both retailers will give you a free gift just for stopping by. And you won’t even have to make a purchase.
No birthday is complete without a delicious meal out on the town, and on this special day you’ll find literally hundreds of restaurants ready to celebrate with you. Pretty much any major restaurant chain you can think of will give you free stuff. Au Bon Pain offers a free salad or sandwich. Boston Market will buy your dessert. Head to one of the most popular coffee shops and you’ll receive a medium drink on the house, and Denny’s will even buy your Grand Slam breakfast. If you can think of the chain, they’ve already thought of something to give you on your birthday. But make sure you check in with the local businesses in your town as well. You’re not always going to be in the mood for a chain restaurant experience, and many of the locals will also acknowledge your birthday if you inquire about it in advance.
Your birthday is also a great time to get the gang together to go do something fun. Parties are great, but what if you’re more into bowling, miniature golf or catching a baseball game? Again, with a bit of advance notice you’ll find some incredible birthday freebies. The Brunswick chain of bowling alleys will buy you two free games on your birthday. Want to take in jousting at Medieval Times? If your friend buys a ticket you get in for free. Almost all of the Disney theme parks offer free admission on your birthday, and most Major League baseball stadiums have great packages for birthday visitors. All you have to do is buy your ticket, and lunch will be on them. In most cases you’ll have to visit their websites and hit one of those ‘click here‘ links. But free stuff on your birthday is well worth the few minutes you’ll invest.