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“Another Trip Around the Sun”– Meaning and Examples of This Common English Phrase

July 14, 2022 By Anthony R. Garcia

The phrase, another trip around the sun , refers to the time period of one year—the length of time it takes for the Earth to travel around our sun. The word trip  means journey , which creates the idea that each of us makes a journey around the sun, each year. Therefore, the phrase is often used on a person’s birthday when a person has made “one more” or “another” trip around the sun:

Let us raise a toast to another trip around the sun !

The phrase was recently made popular as the title of a Jimmy Buffet song (2004) about his birthday, although it is unlikely he was the first person to use it this way. The phrase might also be used on anniversaries, New Year’s Eve, or other occasions celebrating “one more year” of life on planet Earth.

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10 Inspiring Birthday Trip Around the Sun Quotes [Plus Tips for Planning Your Perfect Celebration]

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“Another year older, another trip around the sun. Happy birthday!” is a common quote used to commemorate a birthday and acknowledge the passing of time. It reminds us that life is like a journey through space, and each year brings new experiences and opportunities for growth.

A birthday is one of the most special occasions in one’s life. It’s a day that celebrates you, your accomplishments, and the milestones you’ve crossed in life. While cake and balloons are great ways to celebrate, have you ever thought about incorporating a “birthday trip around the sun” quote into your celebration? Here’s how!

Firstly, let’s understand what a “birthday trip around the sun” means. Every year we complete one orbit of the sun on our birthday, making it our very own personal trip. The idea behind this quote is to remind us that every year we’ve had the opportunity of taking an incredible journey around our star while experiencing all sorts of experiences good or bad.

Now let’s dive into how you can incorporate this concept into your celebrations.

1) Personalized cake: Nothing says birthday party like a cake! But instead of opting for a generic design or message, personalize it with the famous quote from John Glenn- “For all the advances in medicine there’s still no cure for the common birthday”. Or simply choose something like “Another Trip Around The Sun”.

2) Party Favours: The party favor is an essential component of any birthday celebration; however, these little tokens can be made even more significant by adding something meaningful to them – such as quotes relevant to birthdays and trips around the sun. You could create personalized notebooks, pens or keyrings with these inspirational quotes that will help keep memories close long after your special day has passed

3) Theme Décor Having decorations themed according to space makes it more intriguing than usual. With black tablecloths and different shades of blue decor would set up an ambiance fit for intergalactic travel. Add ‘stars’ (dollar store star-shaped foil cutouts scattered among tables), ‘planets’, ‘rocket ships’ hanging from ceilings and walls putting actual models to make it hard-core 3D which would add an atmosphere of celebration and innovation.

4) Gifts: One cannot forget the gifts that make the occasion even more special. For a Birthday Trip Around The Sun-themed party, try gifting items that are space-inspired or ones with quotes commemorating the moment . You could gift a compass or a map to signify exploring new frontiers, an astronaut badge or solar-powered gadgets for the practical gift listers out there

In conclusion, incorporating a birthday trip around the sun quote into your celebrations adds an extra layer of meaning to an already special day. What makes this concept extra special is it reminds us of the journey we have taken so far in life and how we should continue to experience every moment that comes our way no matter good or bad for they are just pits stops along our journey around our star. So let’s embrace every year as another trip around this big beautiful star we call home and keep making beautiful memories!

Birthdays are one of the most celebrated occasions around the world. It’s that special day when people shower their love and affection on the person who is celebrating their new age around the sun. Whether you’re wishing someone a happy birthday in person, over the phone or through a text message, there are various ways to express your feelings for them. One of the most creative ways to wish someone a happy birthday is by using a Birthday Trip Around the Sun Quote.

The idea behind this quote is that each year we circle around the sun and on our birthday, we complete yet another trip around it. This quote reflects on life ‘s journey and reminds us that every year brings with it new experiences, challenges and growth. Using this quote in your messages will surely make your wishes stand out from other generic ones.

Without any further ado, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on using Birthday Trip Around Sun Quote in your Birthday Messages:

Step 1: Choose your Favorite Quote

There are umpteen numbers of quotes available online that revolve around auspicious birthdays like “Happy Birthday”, “Wishing you all the best” or “May all your dreams come true.” However, find a quote revolving around going around the sun like “You’ve completed another trip ’round the sun today – Happy birthday!” Or creating humor with “Another tRIP AROUND THE SUN?! Buckle up baby! Happy Birthday!” These types of phrases can add more interest and context to your message which will be unique and memorable.

Step 2: Start off Your Message with Personalized Greetings

Start by addressing them with their name followed by some cheerful greetings such as “Dear (Name),” “Hey (Name),” or even hilariously “Oh dear God/Oh Lordy, (Name)”. By including their name in your message it gives an impression that they hold great significance and personalized importance to you.

Step 3: Include Wishes and Gratitude

Now that you have started your Birthday message with a name make it more personalized by including your wishes and gratitude towards the person. You can say, for example, “I hope you have an amazing day full of surprises and celebrations!” or even “It’s been a privilege to know you and celebrate another trip around the sun with you!”

Step 4: Incorporate Quotes Along With Your Own Personal Words

You’ve picked out one of many quotes expressing it through your own personal words will create an extraordinary impact on the receiver. You might conclude by saying “Cheers to many more trips around the sun together!” or “Wishing you all the love in this world on your big day!”

Wrapping Up:

Birthdays are special occasions when we want to express our love for the people close to us, making them feel loved, cherished, appreciated and special. The Birthday Trip Around Sun Quote is sure to make their birthday messages memorable when profoundly conveyed. In summary, customizing fun quotations into personalized birthday message footsteps is not as complicated as it seems but required paying attention with utter creativity while keeping things light-hearted & artistic to add warmth to someone’s special day!

As human beings, we all mark the passage of time in different ways. For some of us, it may be our birthdays that serve as a reminder of the years gone by and the adventures ahead. In recent years, there has been a new way to celebrate this occasion- with a birthday trip around the sun quote. This quote has become quite popular and we’ve received many questions about it from people wanting to incorporate it into their own celebrations. So here are some frequently asked questions about the birthday trip around the sun quote, answered just for you!

What exactly is a “birthday trip around the sun”?

Before diving too deep into this question, let’s first take a step back and remember what’s happening here: every year on your birthday you complete one orbit around the sun (assuming you were born on planet Earth). Therefore, each year that passes is like taking another “lap” around our nearest star.

A ‘birthday trip around the sun’ quote acknowledges that another solar journey has successfully completed! It could be viewed as just acknowledging how many years have passed since you were born or also recognized as an achievement- congratulations! Another solar lap accomplished!

Where did this phrase originate?

The origins of this phrase can’t be traced back to any particular person or event but rest assured; it has gained popularity due to its uniqueness and meaning. Celebrating your birthday with your own way is fun – why should only children have all excited parties? Embracing milestones, personal growth , celebrating ourselves are absolutely valid adult pursuits too.

How can I use this quote in my Birthday celebration ?

There are multiple ways to incorporate this quote in your special moment:

Firstly, Use it as a theme: …a ‘trip’ party whose invitation includes numbering invitations for each past journey.

Secondly, use these words during speeches which acknowledge that one more exciting year has gone by beginning another travel period around our life-affirming sun.

Thirdly, include it in your decorating as part of a table runner or giant banner.

Fourthly, use the quote on customized T-shirts for all guests- an excellent way to record special moments and continue celebrating outside of the party!

Lastly, use this phrase creatively! It could be accompanied by airplane imagery encouraging to take an actual travel trip around the world where one can experience other cultures and unique places as their special birthday gift. A twist anywhere you can imagine.

Who is this quote best suited for?

Let us clear this – anyone at any age group could make use of this motivational phrase! Celebrating life’s milestones is essential regardless of age. Use it yourself or give it as a gift either alone or combined with selected items covered under Birthday Trip theme.

How is this celebration tradition different from past birthday celebrations?

It’s not sufficient to just have a birthday cake inscribed with candles while singing ‘Happy Birthday.’ That’s what we’ve chosen year after year in predictable fashion!

Birthday traditions sure evolve over time & Birthday Trip Around The Sun quotes brings forward a new realization – expressing gratitude for another good solar circuit accomplished while preparing ourselves excited up for another adventure period ahead. New ideas can become very personal; amp up ways to proclaim every step towards positive growth while cherishing your successful past journey around our nearest star….

In conclusion:

The birthday trip around the sun quote has gained popularity over the years because it serves as a meaningful reminder of another year gone by and another journey successfully completed. It’s quite flexible in its incorporation into your celebration, adding more personalized touches like combining with favorite elements such as beaches or music festivals…go wild creatively! To add deeper meaning, combine this idea with actually booking trips so that magical memories can indeed capture each solar circuit.

So let’s take out some time every year reimagining how we celebrate our day choosing unique ideas which may lead us down for exciting new paths. Happy Birthday To All- Both Human and Robot – alike!

Birthdays are always a special occasion that people look forward to every year. But have you heard of the popular concept of a “Birthday Trip Around the Sun Quote”? Here’s everything you need to know about it.

1. It’s a Metaphor

Firstly, let’s clarify what a Birthday Trip Around the Sun Quote really means. In short, it is a metaphor for another year of life that has passed. This phrase refers to how every individual on their birthday has traveled another full circle around the sun and come back to the same spot where they started from.

2. It Comes with Positive Vibes

The Birthday Trip Around the Sun Quote signifies positivity and acknowledges all achievements and experiences that one goes through in life during these twelve months. It’s like wrapping up your journey knowledge and experiences of an entire year in one beautiful quote, capturing all precious moments and memories.

3. It Inspires Reflection

One great thing about this quote is how it inspires reflection on past choices and motivates us towards better decision-making for our future selves. Taking time out on this day to reflect can be beneficial for personal growth over time.

4. Helps Evaluate Milestones & Accomplishments

Each trip around the sun makes us older but also helps us grow wiser and experienced by learning valuable things helping us accomplish those milestones which we’ve previously thought impossible! Additionally, it shows off insights into analyzing how well we spend our time throughout these 365 days; whether professionally or personally, further motivating individuals towards achieving more goals !

5. Makes Celebrations More Meaningful

Lastly, remembering this quote when celebrating someone’s birthday adds an extra layer of meaning to festivities by conveying heartfelt wishes alongside support for their ventures ahead- helping them return happier irrespective of any obstacles they’re facing.

In conclusion, Birthdays are not only important but signify self-reflection along with cheering loved ones up! So next time while wishing someone happy birthday remember this quote while trading good vibes, awesome experiences, and spreading positivity to help them sparkle and push them further in life#

Birthdays are special occasions that call for celebration, especially when it’s a milestone year. However, finding the perfect gift or message to mark the day can be an arduous task. One way to show your loved one how much they mean to you on their birthday is by using a creative and unique quote .

One of our favorites is “Happy Birthday! May your trip around the sun be filled with love, laughter, and adventure.” This quote not only wishes your loved one a happy birthday but also reminds them to live life fully and appreciate every moment.

Here are some creative ways to incorporate this quote into your loved one’s birthday celebrations:

1. Create a Personalized Gift: Fill a jar with 365 inspirational quotes – one for each day of the year – including “Happy Birthday! May your trip around the sun be filled with love, laughter, and adventure”. Your loved one will have something meaningful to read every day that will inspire them throughout their next trip around the sun.

2. Plan an Adventure-filled Trip: Plan a surprise weekend getaway or road trip for your loved one’s birthday. Make sure there are plenty of opportunities for fun, laughter, and adventure as they journey through their new trip around the sun. Pack a backpack full of snacks and goodies and attach a note saying “Happy Birthday! May your trip around the sun be filled with love, laughter, and adventure.”

3. Decorate Their Space: Surprise your loved one by decorating their bedroom or office space with balloons or banners featuring their favorite hobbies or interests along with this lovely quote .

4. Bake Them A Cake: What’s better than baking up some sweet joy to celebrate someone special? Whip up an amazing cake decorated in star imagery or sunshine motifs topped off with candles displaying “another lap around the Sun” written in bold letters alongside “Wishing you Joyful Celebrations!”.

5.Send Them A Greeting Card : Sending a greeting card to your loved one filled with a beautiful birthday greeting could make them happy. Personalize it further to surprise them with a beautiful heartfelt message that will display your love and thoughtfulness.

Birthdays are special occasions, and you want to do everything possible to make the day memorable for your loved one. By using the “Happy Birthday! May your trip around the sun be filled with love, laughter, and adventure” quote creatively, you’re not just wishing them a happy birthday – you’re reminding them to live life to the fullest every day of their new journey around the sun.

Birthdays are special days for everyone. They are the perfect time to celebrate life, love and happiness. One of the most popular ways of expressing birthday wishes is through “trip around the sun” quotes.

Originating from the Greek philosopher Aristotle’s belief that the Earth was at the center of the universe and all other celestial bodies orbit around it, these quotes highlight a person’s journey around the sun. As such, they serve as a reminder of a person’s age and how much further they’ve traveled on this cosmic journey.

There are different versions of this quote, some more serious than others. The more humorous versions include jokes about aging as one orbits around the sun yet again. For instance: “You’re getting so old that you don’t just need candles on your cake – you need a firefighters’ permit!” And also: “Happy 30th trip around the sun! Don’t worry – 29 is only 3 in Celsius.”

Others have more philosophical undertones – reminding us to be grateful for every second we spend on this earth. According to them, completing another successful year around our magnificent star is an achievement worth celebrating: “May your next trip around the Sun be full of love, joy and blessings.”

These quotes come in handy whether you’re sending out a sentimental message or sharing wisecracks with loved ones on their special day. Some people even use them as Instagram captions or Facebook posts!

As we move through different stages of our lives and experience new challenges along with achievements, may these quotes continue to inspire us to appreciate this beautiful life we’ve been given.

In conclusion, exploring various variations of birthday trip-around-the-sun quotes has been not just enlightening but also entertaining. These phrases remind us that like planets revolving around stars, our lives revolve around years spent on this planet – each one an opportunity to learn something new or make unforgettable memories. Whether we choose serious or funny caption or quote, may these words serve as a reminder to live full lives and cherish every trip around the sun.

As an expert in astronomy and space exploration, I can tell you that the quote “I’ve traveled around the sun x amount of times” is a fun and accurate way to celebrate a birthday. In reality, we all travel around the sun once every year as our planet orbits it. This quote emphasizes how much we’ve accomplished and experienced during that time. It’s also a great reminder of the vastness of our universe and how lucky we are to be alive on this beautiful planet. So, celebrate your next birthday by acknowledging your journey around the sun!

The idea of celebrating birthdays based on the concept of traveling around the sun was first introduced by German scholar, Johannes Kepler in the late 16th century. Prior to this, birthdays were often celebrated on religious or astrological occasions.

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First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas: 10 Ways to Celebrate

A year has flown by and your little one is about to celebrate their first birthday. What better way to honor a year of joy, laughter, and learning than with a special birthday celebration? After all, they’ve just completed their first of many trips around the sun! 

To mark the occasion, why not host a first trip around the sun birthday theme party ? This sunshine-themed event captures the joy and wonder of this milestone year. As you begin the party planning process, consider the ideas here — from bright decor and sweet treats to age-appropriate activities that commemorate your little one’s first journey around the sun.

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas for Your Little One

With this cheerful first birthday party theme , you’ll have a joyful time celebrating your baby boy or baby girl’s big day. From sunny decorations to creative activities that will keep the little ones entertained, here are our favorite first trip around the sun birthday party ideas.

1. Use Solar System Decorations

Design: Patrice Horvath Design

Blast off with a   space-themed approach to this birthday celebration. Decorate the party space with miniature models of planets revolving around the sun and other solar system decorations. You can also create a backdrop using a dark navy sheet of paper and glue images of planets and stars to it. For this outer space birthday spin on the sun theme, dress your mini astronaut in an on-theme romper for out-of-this-world photo opportunities.

2. Have Fun with Party Decor

Use classic birthday party decorations to deck out your event space with the first trip around the sun birthday theme. Consider birthday balloons and streamers in cheerful colors like yellow and orange. If you’re going with a space theme , hang metallic star garland and mylar balloons featuring images of planets. 

3. Set Up Themed Tables

Elevate the sunshine birthday theme by incorporating images of the sun and colors like yellow and orange into your table decor. Start by choosing a cheerful yellow tablecloth to set the scene. You can find a variety of party plates and napkins on sites like Etsy or Amazon .  

Next, consider what tableware your guests will need. If there are many small children attending this first-year party, think about using spoons or kid-friendly servingware. 

Make the sun theme extra cute by adding place cards for each guest. Add their name and a cute saying like “You are my sunshine” to play up the theme. Sprinkle gold confetti on the table for a hint of glam. For boho sun party vibes, add centerpieces like rattan or macrame vases and fill them with sunflowers, marigolds, daisies, and daffodils. For more ideas, check out our guide on eco-friendly party decorations .

4. Create a Sun Backdrop

Design: Loree Mayer Design

If a solar system photo backdrop isn’t part of your theme, consider a sun backdrop where guests can snap party photos. DIY your own photo background by taking a large piece of yellow butcher paper and hanging it on a flat wall. Add a few balloons on each side and set up a small table with photo props like sunglasses and sun hats. On the butcher paper, add accents like rainbows, butterflies, and wording including “little sunshine,” “the light of my life,” and “the world revolves around me.”

5. Make a Balloon Arch or Balloon Garland

Another creative way to dress up your birthday party is to create a balloon arch . Place the arch above the entryway or use it to make your sun backdrop extra special. Easily make your own by using a balloon garland kit or order a custom-made garland from your local party planning store. Choose balloon colors to coordinate with your theme. You can also add in metallic gold, silver, or rose gold balloons for a hint of elegance.

6. Serve Dessert From an Ice Cream Cart

Design: Jessie Steury

Skip the conventional dessert table and make a splash with a sun-themed ice cream cart. Serve flavors like pineapple and mango sorbet or stick to classics like chocolate and vanilla. Fill mason jars with toppings like yellow candies, sprinkles, and nuts. Be sure to offer vegan, non-dairy options, and nut-free options for guests with different dietary needs.

7. Keep Kids Entertained with Sensory Bins

Little kids love exploring the world with their hands. Make this part of the birthday party fun with themed sensory bins. Fill large plastic tubs with water — choose long tubs with shorter heights to make it easier for the small kids to reach inside. Then add yellow rubber ducks and floating suns. 

Alternatively, you can fill some of the bins with sand to create a   beach birthday under the sun’s bright rays. Whatever you decide to put in the bins, make sure it’s age-appropriate and kid-safe. You can provide more details in your digital invitations so guests know what to expect.

8. Cake Smash

A smash cake is a birthday cake designed for infants and small kids to be able to eat with their hands. It’s a fun and silly way of letting them have their cake and eat it too! Add a first trip around the sun cake topper or use pieces of felt, string, and two sticks to create a pennant banner featuring your child’s name. For added boho flair, set the cake on a rattan cake stand.

Alternatively, you can choose cupcakes for bite-size portions that are easier to hand out to each guest. Add a cupcake topper like a stick with a sun on it or one featuring different photos of your child.  

9. High Chair Birthday Banner

Design: Signature Greenvelope

Add a high chair banner to set a special setting for the birthday boy or birthday girl . On the banner, you can write a simple “ Happy Birthday ” or “ 1st trip around the sun .” If you’re feeling extra-crafty, create a monthly photo banner with one image of your child from each month of their first year .

10. Party Favors

Show everyone how much joy they brought to the party by sending them home with sun- themed party favors . You can make goodie bags filled with practical items like sunglasses, sunscreen, and small beach towels. For a space-themed around the sun birthday party, T-shirts or reusable tote bags featuring prints of planets and rockets are a great idea.

Celebrate Their First Trip Around the Sun

From first trip around the sun birthday decorations to party activities and invitations, there are plenty of ways to pull off a memorable celebration. Vibrant decorations, sensory games, and a fun cake smash ensure this first birthday party will be a big hit. 

Whether you’re hosting a sun-themed 1st birthday party or baby shower , Greenvelope offers cheerful invitations that help you mark the moment. Browse our selection of sunny birthday invitations to celebrate your little ray of sunshine. Customize any of the artist-curated designs by changing the color scheme and typography and adding cheerful elements like music and personalized stamps.

For more party planning ideas, continue browsing our Stationers blog . It’s filled with birthday party theme ideas, party planning tips, and decoration ideas so you can celebrate every milestone.

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Trip Around The Sun by Jimmy Buffett and Martina McBride

Songfacts®:

• Not only was Jimmy Buffett's License To Chill his first #1 album on the Country chart, it was also his first to top the Billboard 200. Several country stars join Buffett on the album, including Martina McBride for the duet "Trip Around The Sun." On the birthday-themed ballad, the duo contemplates another year gone by, remembering failed resolutions and wondering if they made the right choices. They find comfort knowing the world will keep spinning no matter what they do and decide to dispense with the yearly resolutions except for one: "That I'll never make another one, Just enjoy this ride on my trip around the sun."
• This was written by Al Anderson , former frontman for the country/blues rock band NRBQ, and singer-songwriters Stephen Bruton and Sharon Vaughn. Anderson, who also played guitar on License To Chill , recorded his own version of the song for his 2006 album After Hours . When asked by NPR if there was a standout tune on the record, he replied: "Only 'Trip Around the Sun' in a heart beat. This girl left a note saying that she was going to drive herself off a bridge in Baltimore, and she heard the song on the radio and it stopped her from committing suicide. So it made me feel good since most of my songs have the opposite effect."
• This peaked at #20 on the Country chart.
• The music video was shot near Charleston, South Carolina, and features the singers enjoying a beachside celebration with friends. Buffett is also seen flying one of his own planes, a 1941 Boeing E75 Stearman.
• More songs from Jimmy Buffett and Martina McBride
• More songs with celestial titles
• More songs written for birthdays
• More songs with videos directed by Trey Fanjoy
• More songs from 2004

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104 Anniversary Captions to Accompany That Romantic, Requisite Instagram Post

• Jamie is a Senior Editor for The Knot where she oversees all sex and relationship editorial content.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, she worked with an array of digital publications that include Brides, The Zoe Report, Bustle and MyDomaine.
• Jamie graduated with a degree in English and Media, Culture & Communications from New York University.

What's the best part of any anniversary? (Besides, you know, celebrating your incredible partner and the love you share, obviously …) Showing off your favorite cute couple photos on social media—if you're into that sort of thing. Accompanying these photos, of course, should be thoughtfully crafted anniversary captions to set them apart on the ol' Instagram feed. Luckily for you, you've come to the experts: We have Instagram caption ideas for everything, from the bachelorette party to the bridal shower and wedding day —even your anniversary.

Whether you're looking for ideas for one-year anniversary captions, wedding anniversary captions, funny anniversary captions or any anniversary post caption for another particular milestone, we've taken the stress out of crafting the perfect post.

Below, find 104 anniversary captions for your celebratory Instagram post.

In this article:

Funny Anniversary Captions

Cute anniversary captions, engagement anniversary captions, 1-year anniversary captions, 2-year anniversary captions, 5-year anniversary captions, milestone anniversary captions, anniversary captions inspired by pop culture.

Save the emotions for the card that accompanies your anniversary gift . If you don't like getting sappy online, you might prefer something witty or sarcastic. To keep the mood light on social media, browse funny anniversary captions right here.

• Annual reminder to my S.O. that it's our anniversary.
• "It wasn't love at first sight. It took a full five minutes." (Lucille Ball)
• Happy anniversary! I want to spend the rest of my money with you.
• Marriage is basically an endless sleepover with your BFF.
• No refunds.
• Today we celebrate the best decision you've ever made.
• There's no one else in the world I'd rather have snoring beside me.
• Marry someone who gives you the same feeling as when you see your food coming at a restaurant.
• Being married to me is the real anniversary gift.
• Love this for you.
• Forgot to cancel my 30-day marriage trial.
• My lifetime subscription.
• Stuck with me.

Not feeling a witty remark? Go for something sweet and thoughtful instead. Your anniversary is a sentimental day of celebration, after all, so consider these cute anniversary captions to add to your favorite couple pics.

• "Take a lover who looks at you like maybe you are magic." (Frida Kahlo)
• Today, tomorrow, always.
• & to many more.
• Same time, next year?
• Cheers to yet another trip around the sun.
• Life with you just keeps getting better.
• Time flies when you're married to your best friend.
• Here's to another year with my better half.
• Yep, saying "yes" to you was still the smartest thing I ever did.
• You will always be my forever.
• The good things in life are better with you.
• Twin flame forever.
• To many more.
• More to come.
• X trips around the sun.
• This day never gets old.
• "I love her and it is the beginning of everything." (F. Scott Fitzgerald)

Throw it back to when the question was freshly popped and the ring never looked sparklier via these engagement anniversary captions. (You can find even more engagement captions here !)

• The day I became left-handed.
• Still pinching myself.
• The easiest "Yes."
• Can't wait to annoy you for the rest of our lives.
• The start of forever.
• Throwback to my ugly cry face.

Your first wedding anniversary is a big deal. After one year of marriage, there's plenty to celebrate—and it's a great excuse to post even more wedding photos (because we know you've got plenty.) Plus, nothing says #marriagegoals like a slideshow of your best pictures from your first year of wedded bliss. Use any of these one-year anniversary captions on social media to give your friends and fam all the feels.

• One year down and a lifetime to go.
• 365 days of smiles, laughs and reminders to take the trash out.
• I remember our wedding like it was one year ago.
• A year later and you still give me butterflies.
• Happy one-year anniversary to the best party we've ever thrown.
• 525,600 minutes as a married couple.
• The first of many.
• One year down and it's only the beginning.
• One year married to you.
• You made one year feel like a day.
• 365 days of us.

Two years of marriage is worth a celebration too. Your second anniversary is just as impressive as your first. In fact, it might feel even more special. After you've made it past the first year of marriage, the subsequent years are a testament to the strength of your relationship. To honor your second year of marriage, use any of the two-year anniversary captions below for your sentimental Instagram post.

• Two years of marriage means double the fun.
• What's better than one year of marriage? Two.
• Two years down and forever to go.
• 730 days fly by when you're having fun.
• We're here for a good time *and* a long time.
• Two years later and we're just as in love as the day we said, "I do."
• 2gether forever.

Half a decade together is certainly something to celebrate! The tough part will definitely be narrowing down your favorite photos to post. But, as far as 5-year anniversary captions are concerned, we have you covered.

• 5 down, forever to go.
• 5 years later, and you're still the one that I want.
• Darling, don't be afraid, I have loved you for five years. I'll love you for a thousand more. ( Inspired by "A Thousand Years," by Christina Perrie)
• 5 years and counting!
• TIL, the 5-year anniversary gift is wood.
• 5 years later, and I can't imagine my life without you in it.
• High five to five years!
• Still my favorite person, 5 whole years later.
• "You're my one in five billion." ( The X-Files)

Don't stop celebrating your marriage as the years add up. Each wedding anniversary is special, but the milestones are especially remarkable. Whether you've been married for five years , a decade , or more , every milestone is significant to your relationship. If you're looking for milestone anniversary captions, we've got you covered. Choose your favorite from our list below.

• The best love stories never end.
• When did we become an old married couple?
• I remember our wedding like it was just yesterday.
• Yep, I'll still keep you around.
• Every year is a golden year with you.
• The best is still yet to come.
• Cheers to the best decision I ever made.
• X years together… but who's counting?

Look to pop culture for anniversary Instagram captions that are timely and possibly play on your and your S.O.'s shared love for a certain movie, TV show, book or song. (We love the idea of pulling inspiration from your first dance tune !) Below, find in-the-know anniversary IG captions inspired by pop culture and media.

• And isn't it just so pretty to think all along there was some invisible string tying you to me?" ("Invisible String" by Taylor Swift)
• "All that you are is all that I'll ever need." ("Tenerife Sea" by Ed Sheeran)
• "You're my end and my beginning." ("All of Me" by John Legend)
• "And we built this love from the ground up." ("From the Ground Up" by Dan and Shay)
• "Some things are meant to be." ("Can't Help Falling In Love" by Elvis Presley)
• "Have I known you twenty seconds or twenty years?" ("Lover" by Taylor Swift )
• "Loving you's the antidote." ("Golden" by Harry Styles)
• "Keep all my love forever." ("P.S. I Love You" by The Beatles)
• "I love you. Three words that are divine." ("I Love You" by Frank Sinatra)
• "It just had to be you." ("It Had to Be You" by Dooley Wilson)

From Movies & TV Shows

• "It's you. It's me. It's us." ( The Haunting of Bly Manor)
• The one where we said yes. ( Friends )
• "I would have really liked just doing laundry and taxes with you." ( Everything Everywhere All At Once)
• "I love you and I like you." ( Parks and Recreation)
• "I would rather spend one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone." (The Lord of the Rings)
• "I hope it's okay if I love you forever." ( A Star Is Born)
• "When you're a kid, you assume your parents are soulmates. My kids are gonna be right about that." ( The Office)
• "But the thing is this, after a while, you just want to be with the one that makes you laugh." ( Sex and the City)
• "You're more likely to talk about nothing than something. But I just want to say that all this nothing has meant more to me than so many somethings." ( You've Got Mail)
• "I love you even when you're sick and look disgusting." ( Love Actually )
• "Wherever you are in the world, that's where I belong." ( Crazy Rich Asians )
• "I've never liked a smile as much as I like yours." ( Schitt's Creek )
• "It was a million tiny little things that, when you added them all up, they meant we were supposed to be together." ( Sleepless in Seattle )
• "You know you are right for someone when they force you to be the best version of yourself." ( The Mindy Project )
• "This is a once-in-a-lifetime love." ( The Vow )
• "I like you very much. Just as you are." ( Bridget Jones' Diary )
• "You are the only thing I'm ever gonna need." ( This Is Us)
• "Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same." (Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights)
• "He is half of my soul, as the poets say." ( Madeline Miller, The Song of Achilles )
• "Wherever she is, that's where my home is." (Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook)
• "It's enough for me to be sure that you and I exist at this moment." (Gabriel Garcia Márquez, One Hundred Years of Solitude)
• "It was the kind of kiss that made me know that I was never so happy in my whole life." (Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower)
• "Once upon a time there was a boy who loved a girl, and her laughter was a question he wanted to spend his whole life answering." (Nicole Krauss, The History of Love)

Contributions by Sarah Hanlon

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Theme Ideas [DIY Friendly]

Posted on Published: March 2, 2023  - Last updated: October 9, 2023

Categories Frugal Mommy Guide , Holidays , Motherhood

If your child is about to celebrate their first trip around the sun , you may be wondering what kind of birthday party theme to choose. There are so many great options out there, but we have collected some of our favorites for you here. These First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Theme Ideas are all DIY friendly, so you can create a fun and festive celebration without spending a lot of money. Read on for inspiration!

Why throw a First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Theme Party?

Your little one only turns one, Once in a lifetime! It’s a special age, and deserves to be celebrated! If you have seen my amazing post on First Birthday themes for Boys and even my First birthday themes for girls , you would know, I absolutely love and allocate for first birthday parties!

Planning a First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Theme Party is the perfect way to celebrate your little one’s first year of life! With the First Trip Around the Sun theme, you can incorporate colors, decorations, and activities that are perfect for your special little one!

This theme is super cute and just the perfect way to celebrate your little one’s first solar return! It’s been a whole trip around the sun, where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday you were pregnant, yet along, gave birth to your precious baby! It seems like if you blink, it will be your baby’s second solar return!

With that being said, let’s dive right into the fun part, First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Inspiration that you can totally DIY!

Table of Contents

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, which means I will get a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking the link, you will not pay a penny more than usual. 

First Trip Around the Sun Themed Birthday Party Inspiration

Alright, let’s get this party started! Time to dive all into these amazing First Trip Around the Sun Birthday party theme ideas in 3-2-1! Blast off! Here is everything you need to throw the best 1st trip Around the Sun Birthday Party !

One Year Around the Sun Birthday Party Items:

Space Themed 1st Birthday Party Theme Items:

Creative first trip around the sun birthday themes.

Here are some more creative spin-offs to the 1st Trip Around the Sun Birthday Theme :

• Solar System Theme – Decorate with a starry night backdrop, hang planets from the ceiling, and serve out of planet-shaped cups. Create fun photo ops with DIY astrological signs and a life-sized model of the sun in the center!

• Astronaut Theme – Deck the house out with silver and gold. Make a station where kids can dress up as astronauts, complete with space helmets and jumpsuits!

• Rocket Ship Theme – To make it extra special, build a rocket ship photo booth and fill it with fun props for kids to use in photos. Serve up treats shaped like rockets, stars, and planets!

• Space Adventure Theme – Have a blast with an outer space adventure theme. Decorate with streamers in the colors of the night sky and have fun activities like a scavenger hunt or a planetarium show!

Last Thing You Need to Know About First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Theme Ideas

We hope you found these First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Theme Ideas helpful! No matter which theme you choose, your little one’s First Trip Around the Sun celebration is sure to be out of this world! Just remember to have fun and enjoy these special moments with your family. Happy planning!

Other Related Posts:

• 27+ First Birthday Party Themes for Boys [You’ll Absolutely Love]
• Sweet One First Birthday Party Theme Ideas [DIY Friendly]
• 5 Amazing Baby First Birthday Ideas You’ll Love (Simple & Unique)
• 27+ First Birthday Party Themes for Girls [You’ll Absolutely Love]
• Fast One First Birthday Party Theme Ideas [DIY Friendly]
• Groovy One First Birthday Party Theme Ideas [DIY Friendly]

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First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas for Baby Boys

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas

Before I was even pregnant, I would scroll through Pinterest and save cute ideas for baby birthday parties. I couldn’t wait for the day that I could plan a birthday party for my children.

Once my son was born, it hit me that I can finally start making these dreams a reality!

My son turned 1 on October 20th and the theme we went with was “First Trip Around the Sun.” What personally drew me to this theme was that it didn’t seem overdone (although you’ll find TONS of results when you search for it on Pinterest!)

In this post, I am going to share all the details of the party. All the decorations were bought on Amazon and I will also share some items I found that I didn’t use but would still be perfect for the theme. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!

This post may contain affiliate links. This means I earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosures.

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas: Invites

First things first: you need to invite your guests!

Unfortunately some of my planning was last minute, so I send out a text blast to everyone instead of mailing invitations.

But these invites were the ones I would have gone with. Right on theme and easily customizable.

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas: Decorations

We hosted our party at a clubhouse and when I first saw the space, I wasn’t sure if the decorations I bought would be enough. But these two packs of decorations were plenty .

Ceiling Streamers

This 20 piece set of ceiling streamers worked perfectly for the space we used. A great variety and there was enough to fill out the space well.

First Trip Around the Sun Party Supplies

If you’re looking for a set of party decorations for this theme, this is it!

This pack had exactly what I needed. For the size of our party, I still needed to get some extra utensils but overall this was a great starting point. I loved that it kept the theme cohesive.

There were a couple of cons:

• The plates are a little flimsy but still get the job done.
• The table cloth ended up being too small for the tables we were using, so be sure to double check the dimensions. We ended up repurposing the tablecloth for the time capsule station which you can see further down this post.

This came with ribbon but I ended up just tapping the words and planets to the wall instead.

Other Decoration Options

There was SO much I wanted to buy but ended up not. Here are some other cute options for the first trip around the sun theme.

High Chair Banner

This high chair banner would be a great touch for this theme.

Photo Banner

I love this idea of displaying pictures of your little one over the year. This photo banner is perfect for the theme.

Balloons & Boxes

This pack of balloons and boxes is a great display.

Door Decorations

The ideas are endless for this theme, but I will share one final idea for decorations. These banners to put outside your door are awesome!

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas: Cake & Food

Let’s talk about my personal favorite thing: food!

I didn’t end up doing a bunch of space-theme appetizers or food. But if you search on Pinterest, the possibilities are endless.

I knew for sure I wanted to go all out for the cake and we are so happy with how it turned out. The bakery was able to copy an exact idea I found and it looked (and tasted) great.

I found some really cute cake/cupcake toppers to give you some inspiration.

• This First Trip Around The Sun cake topper is SO cute!
• I LOVE this rocket cake topper.
• This set comes with a banner and cupcake toppers.
• And finally, here is a set that has a topper for cake and cupcakes.

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas: Outfits

Another fun part of planning this theme is picking an outfit for your little one!

My son wore a onesie that had constellations on it. It was basic but on theme. This onesie came in a pack of 5.

I came across a couple other cute outfit ideas for the first trip around the sun theme.

• Space sweatshirt + pants

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas: Time Capsule

I would have to say my absolute favorite part of this party was the time capsule I put together.

I saw this idea quite a bit when I was researching this theme and I thought it was so sweet. Have everyone at the party write a message to your child for them to open on their 18th birthday.

If you want to add more keepsake items, you can also include some of the decorations and photos you took.

Here are the items I used for my time capsule.

• Felt letter board : I bought this when I was pregnant with my son. I used it for our pregnancy announcement, his birth announcement, and for this time capsule. The great part about these letter boards is that you can use them for SO many things!
• Card box : This could not have been more fitting for the theme!
• Galaxy cards : You can have your guests write on whatever you’d like. I came across these blank galaxy cards and they worked out great!

RELATED READ: How to Make a Time Capsule for Baby’s First Birthday

Concluding First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas

I hope this post inspired your first trip around the sun birthday party theme! I loved throwing this party together.

If you’d like to get other party theme ideas, check out my post 6 Unique First Birthday Party Ideas for Baby Boys .

Do you plan on using this theme for your child’s birthday? Share in the comments!

BEFORE YOU GO…

Snag this party planning bundle for only $3! It includes:

• A general party planning page to prepare for when and where the party will take place, a spot for brainstorming themes, and creating your master to do list
• A meal planning page 
• A guest list page
• And lastly a page to jot down all of the decorations/party favors you’ll need

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ONE YEAR OLD FIRST TRIP AROUND THE SUN GUEST BOOK: First Birthday Outer Space Galaxy Theme Solar System astronaut anniversary celebration keepsake Paperback – July 31, 2023

Purchase options and add-ons, a dedicated page to personalize with the celebrants name and date..

• 70 beautiful pages for guests to write their messages and well wishes, (each page contains prompts for 4 guests, so the entire guest book can accommodate up to 280 invited guests !)

10 pages to log all the gifts you receive, from whom and if you sent a thank you note.

• 20 pages to store and stick in photos and other memories
• Paperback Square 8.5 x 8.5 Large Book Size
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70 beautiful pages for guests to write their messages and well wishes, (each page contains prompts for 4 guests,

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CDJTKDTX
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (July 31, 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 101 pages
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.3 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.5 x 0.23 x 8.5 inches
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Birthday Parties · February 11, 2024

25+ First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Ideas

Your baby’s first trip around the sun is a huge milestone that deserves to be celebrated in style. This first birthday party is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate all of the milestones your child has achieved over the past year, from rolling over to maybe even taking their first steps.

Whether you’re planning a big party or a small family gathering, a First Trip Around the Sun birthday party is the perfect theme to celebrate.

There are affiliate links in this post.

Theme Overview

The First Trip Around the Sun Birthday theme is all about outer space! From the sun, stars, moon to rocket ships and astronauts, this theme is a whimsical one that usually is all about shades of blue, silver and yellow.

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Invites

When planning a first trip around the sun birthday party, the first step is to send out invitations to your guests. Make sure to include important details such as the date, time, location, and RSVP information.

These First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Invitations are adorable and you can customize them online before having them printed out:

First Trip Around the Sun Party Decorations

Balloon garland & backdrops.

Balloon garland is a major trend we’re still seeing at events, especially for birthday parties! You can grab a balloon garland kit to DIY it yourself easily.

Think colors of blues and greens for a first trip around the sun birthday party. You can place balloon garland around a welcome sign (like this one pictured below), around a dessert table, or use it as a photo backdrop.

I love how this space themed balloon garland borders this adorable custom banner backdrop :

You can also place it behind baby’s high chair in order to use it as a photo backdrop.

You can find the balloon garland kit below here .

Add in accents like rocket ship balloons, hanging stars, and crecsent moons to really bring the theme together.

You can find a similar balloon garland kit here :

Centerpieces

Add themed centerpieces to your tables to tie the whole theme together. Here are a few ideas to inspire your own.

If you plan on having a first birthday photo shoot to tie in with your theme, definitely use framed pictures of your little one throughout the event. How adorable is this alongside the mason jar centerpiece below?

Table Settings & Decor

Consider adding a pop of color to your tablescape by using a blue or green table runner. You can add space themed paper plates and cups, along with napkins to match.

Food and Cake Inspirations

The dessert table at any function is my favorite thing to decorate! You can have a lot of fun with this and really make it a focal point to the event.

Use framed printable signs to elevate the look and label the food, like the rocket fuel sign below ( similar here ).

If you’re planning a First Trip Around the Sun First Birthday Party, you’ll want to make sure that the food and cake are out of this world! Here are some ideas to inspire your menu.

Add space themed cookies, like astronauts or stars. Elevate the look of the food table with printable signs and star light garland, like pictured below.

What kid doesn’t love a peanut butter and jelly? These are adorable cut out as moon shapes with star tooth picks in each one.

Birthday Cake

Now let’s talk about the best part of planning a birthday party: the cake.

For a First Trip Around the Sun party, you’ll want to go with shades of blue like our galaxy. Add in elements of outer space with decorative stars and moons.

Add a perfect cake topper to the cake to drive the theme home, like the one below.

You can also add rocket ships and planets to the top of your cake, like below:

Consider adding in other types of desserts, like donuts and cookies. You can frost them an icy blue to blend with the theme.

Don’t forget to add decorative elements to the dessert table like balloons, framed signs of your little one’s first year, and any other extras that will elevate its look.

Star and moon rice crispy treats are an easy way to enhance the look of the table and offering a sweet treat for your guests.

How adorable is this cake below?

With these food and cake inspirations, your First Trip Around the Sun First Birthday Party is sure to be a blast!

First Birthday Party Activities

Make your baby’s first birthday party extra special with these fun and memorable activities.

Photo Booth with Props

Create a cute and colorful backdrop for a DIY photo booth. Use balloons, streamers, and a personalized banner to make it festive. Provide a variety of props such as hats, glasses, and signs for guests to use in their photos. You can even create a hashtag for the party and encourage guests to share their photos on social media.

Time Capsule Activity

Create a time capsule for your baby’s first birthday. Ask guests to bring items that represent the current year, such as newspapers, magazines, or popular toys. Include a letter to your child to be opened on their 18th birthday. Seal the time capsule and store it in a safe place until it’s time to open it.

Baby’s First Art Project

Set up a messy art station for your little one and their friends. Provide non-toxic finger paints, paper, and smocks. Let the babies explore and create their own masterpieces. This is a great way to capture memories and create a special keepsake for your child’s first birthday.

Final Thoughts

Baby’s First Trip Around the Sun is such a whimsical theme, and would be perfect for any little boy or girl to celebrate this big milestone in their life.

11+ Trending First Birthday Party Ideas You’ll Love

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One Trip Around The Sun: 1st Anniversary

The Point of U podcast is 1 year old and to mark the First Anniversary, I've put together a compilation of some of the highlights for me over the past 12 months. A big thank you to all my guests for taking time out to be on the show and special thanks to you - the listeners - for the supporting the podcast. Check out my video message about what's coming up for the show in the next year!

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“First Trip Around the Sun” Birthday Party Ideas

Celebrating your little one’s first year is a big deal, and what better way to mark it than with a  ‘First Trip Around the Sun’ birthday party ? This first birthday theme is not only adorable, but it also captures the wonder of the universe and the one-year journey you and your baby have completed together.

It’s a chance to celebrate with a splash of creativity, fun, and memories that will be out of this world.

Whether you lean more towards embracing the warm and  radiant theme of the sun  or set your sights on the  wonders of outer space  for your baby’s first birthday, you can create a memorable and magical experience for your little explorer.

What’s more fun than a themed first birthday party!?!

First Trip Around The Sun Birthday Ideas

First trip around the sun party decorations.

Transform your party space into an otherworldly adventure with creative decorations. Hang paper lanterns and twinkle lights to represent stars, use inflatable planets to decorate corners, and create a focal point with a sunburst backdrop for photo ops. Use colors like deep blue, gold, and silver to capture the essence of the cosmos.

• Create a solar system by hanging planets from the ceiling at varying lengths using a clear fishing line.
• Use helium-filled balloons in the shape of stars and planets, ensuring they are secured so they don’t float away. A balloon garland is always fun!
• Set up a large cutout of the sun where the birthday child’s highchair can be placed for photo opportunities.
• Incorporate LED string lights or fairy lights to give the party area a twinkling star effect.

Sun/Boho Party Kit:

Outer Space/Solar System Party Kit:

Space for the Star: High Chair Decor

Your baby’s high chair is mission control, and it deserves special treatment:

• A  High Chair Banner  in theme colors marks the spot for the star of the show.
• Surround the area with a mini  Balloon Arch  to frame the “launch” of the smash cake ceremony.

First Trip Around the Sun Balloon Arches:

p.s. we love a good party hat on a baby. Consider whether your baby will wear one long enough to make it worth the cost. 

Another Party Kit We Love:

First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Invitations

Share the good news about this celebration and design invitations inspired by the “First Trip Around the Sun” theme. Incorporate elements like stars, planets, rockets, or a sunburst design to set the tone for the celebration. Don’t forget to mention the dress code, whether casual or space-themed attire, to add to the fun.

More invitation ideas:

• Use cardstock with a glossy finish to mimic the shine of stars for printed invitations.
• Incorporate images of celestial bodies, such as the sun, planets, stars, and comets.
• Include all essential details like date, time, location, and RSVP information, along with a playful note such as “Board the spaceship at [time] for a galactic adventure!”

Click on any of the images below to purchase:

Check out these really cute party decorations I found on an Etsy shop called Design My Party Studio. They have both paper and digital download invites. For a change, go for the digital ones – they’re super simple to use. Just text or email them to your family. We love to support small businesses on Etsy. 

Out-of-this-World Food and Drinks

Craft a celestial menu that will delight both kids and adults. Consider serving finger foods and snacks in the shape of stars, moon, and planets. A rocket-shaped birthday cake is a must! You can also have “space juice” (fruit punch) and “alien lemonade” (green-colored lemonade) for the young astronauts.

The birthday cake for your little guy or gal can be as simple or elaborate as you want it to be. 

These sunshine print cupcake toppers are adorable, for starters. If you’re into store-bought cupcakes, just stick these in, and you’ll be good to go. 

More cake ideas:

• A tiered cake with each layer representing a different aspect of the solar system, topped with a smiling sun.
• Decorate cupcakes with fondant planets or use star-shaped sprinkles.
• Offer a variety of star-shaped sweets, such as star-shaped lollipops or chocolates.

Food and Beverage Fun:

• Create a beverage station with a sign that reads “Rocket Fuel” and serve colorful drinks with fun straws.
• Prepare finger foods and creatively name them, such as “Asteroid Cheese Balls” or “Galactic Fruit Skewers.” Little details like this make a party extra special!
• Use star-shaped cookie cutters to make sandwiches and other snacks more theme-appropriate.

Entertainment and Activities

Keep the little guests engaged with space-themed activities and games. Set up a craft station for kids to create their own paper plate planets or rockets. Organize a treasure hunt with clues leading to “alien” treasures hidden throughout the venue. For more energetic fun, arrange a mini rocket launch (water bottle rockets) or a moonwalk (bounce house).

Baby’s First Time Capsule

Create a special time capsule that commemorates your baby’s first year. Ask guests to bring letters, small mementos, or wishes for the child’s future. Seal the capsule and promise to open it together on their 18th birthday. It’s a sentimental way to cherish memories and show your child how much they’re loved.

Party Favors

Thank your guests for joining this cosmic celebration with themed party favors. Fill goodie bags with treats, stickers, small toys, and perhaps a custom-made space-themed thank-you note.

• Assemble favor bags with space-themed items like mini glow sticks, space stickers, and temporary tattoos.
• Personalize items with the child’s name and the party theme, such as water bottles or keychains.
• Pack the treats in bags decorated with stars and planets, or use clear cellophane tied with a ribbon to resemble a starburst.

How to Plan a First Birthday Party

Are you ready to make your little one’s first birthday an unforgettable celebration? Planning the perfect party can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it’s your child’s first milestone. That’s why we’re thrilled to present our First Birthday Party Planning Workbook , the ultimate digital guide designed to make the process fun, stress-free, and filled with joy!

Bonus Ideas for Your First Trip Around the Sun First Birthday Party Theme

Sun Themed Ideas

• Sunshine Decorations:  Create a warm and sunny atmosphere with decorations that radiate happiness. Hang golden-yellow and orange balloons all around the party area, and use sun-shaped cutouts to brighten up the walls.
• “You Are My Sunshine” Soundtrack:  Play the classic song “You Are My Sunshine” during the party to add a touch of sentimental sweetness. You can even consider having a sing-along session with the little guests and their parents.
• Sunflower Garden:  Set up a mini sunflower garden as a lovely backdrop for photos. Sunflowers symbolize happiness and joy, making them a perfect addition to the celebration.
• Sunny Dress Code:  Encourage guests to embrace the sun birthday party theme and to dress in bright and sunny colors, like yellow, orange, and gold, to match the theme. This will add an extra burst of sunshine to the party!
• Sun-themed Cake and Treats:  Besides the rocket-themed cake, consider having a sun-shaped cake as the centerpiece. You can also serve sun-shaped cookies and cupcakes to complement the theme.
• Sun Hat Decorating Station:  Provide straw sun hats and a variety of craft supplies like ribbons, stickers, and fabric markers. Let guests decorate their own sun hats, creating a fun and practical party favor.
• Sunrise and Sunset Photo Booth:  Set up a photo booth with props like sunglasses, sun hats, and sun rays to mimic the sunrise and sunset. This will give the little ones and their parents a chance to capture cherished memories.
• Sun-themed Piñata:  Surprise the kids with a sun-shaped piñata filled with age-appropriate treats and toys. Let them take turns trying to crack it open and collect the goodies!
• Sundial Craft Activity:  Teach the kids about how people used sundials to tell time in ancient times. Provide craft materials for the children to create their own mini sundials to take home.
• Sun-inspired Food and Drinks:  Serve a sunny-themed menu with foods like fruit kabobs with pineapple, orange slices, and banana chunks. For drinks, offer refreshing lemonade or orange-flavored punch.
• Sun Ray Cake Topper:  Decorate the birthday cake with edible sun rays made of yellow fondant or frosting. It will give the cake a beautiful and radiant touch.
• Solar System Sensory Play:  Create a sensory play station with materials representing the solar system, like moon sand, star-shaped confetti, and shiny planet balls.

Space-Themed Ideas

• Rocket Ship Entrance:  Transform the entrance to the party area into a rocket ship with cardboard cutouts, aluminum foil, and tape in bright colors. Let the little guests feel like they’re blasting off into space as they enter the party!
• Galactic Photo Booth:  No outer space birthday is complete without a photo booth with space-themed props like astronaut helmets, alien masks, and cosmic capes. Provide a starry backdrop for perfect spacey snapshots.
• Space Adventure Storytime:  Gather the kids for an exciting space adventure storytime. Read books about planets, astronauts, and intergalactic journeys to ignite their imagination.
• Astronaut Training Obstacle Course:  Create a mini obstacle course with fun challenges to simulate astronaut training. Include activities like “moonwalking” (walking with big, bouncy steps) and “zero gravity” jumping on a trampoline.
• Constellation Craft Station:  Have a craft table where kids can make their own constellation art using glow-in-the-dark stickers or paint. They can learn about different constellations and create their own cosmic masterpieces.
• Planet Pinata:  Hang a planet-shaped pinata filled with space-themed treats and goodies. Let the kids take turns trying to break it open and collect the treasures from the universe.
• Alien Egg Hunt:  Organize an “alien egg” hunt with small green eggs hidden around the party area. Each egg can contain a small toy or treat, and the kids will have a blast searching for extraterrestrial surprises.
• Space-Themed Bingo:  Create bingo cards with space-related images like rockets, stars, and planets. Play a few rounds of space-themed bingo, and the winners can receive special space explorer certificates.
• Edible Meteorites:  Make “edible meteorites” by rolling chocolate truffles in crushed cookies or crushed pretzels. They will look like mini meteors, and the kids will love munching on these sweet treats.
• Astronaut Ice Cream Bar:  Set up an astronaut ice cream station with different flavors of freeze-dried ice cream. It’s a unique and tasty treat that will make the kids feel like real space explorers.
• Moon Rock Toss:  Have a moon rock toss game where kids try to toss soft “moon rocks” (foam balls) into a target area. It’s a fun and safe activity that will keep them entertained.
• Space-Themed Piñata:  Choose a piñata shaped like a rocket ship, a planet, or an alien spaceship to add a spacey twist to the traditional game.

Happy birthday to your little one! We hope your birthday boy or baby girl has an awesome time and that you do too!

Note: We also love Party City for special occasions, but there is nothing quite like the high-quality items you can find on the Etsy app. It’s a vibrant community of real people with everything from made-to-order items to vintage treasures. Check delivery dates, though; sometimes, these creative entrepreneurs have longer lead times. 

More Party Supplies We Love:

• First Trip Around The Sun 1st Birthday Party Pack: including 1x felt “first trip around the sun“ banner, 1x felt sun garland, 1x “one” birthday crown hat, 1x one cake topper, 1x high chair banner, 1x backdrop, 1x photo banner, 1x milestone poster, 1x number 1 foil balloon, 2 x sun foil balloons, 2 x daisy face foil balloons, 65x latex balloons, 78 pieces in total.
• Premium Quality: First trip around the sun banner, garland, birthday crown, cake topper are all made of thick felt, eco-friendly and reusable. 1st birthday milestone poster and baby monthly milestone photo banner are made of thick cardstock, with high-definition printing. The background cloth is made of high quality polyester fiber, strong and reliable. High-quality natural latex and foil balloons are durable and shiny.
• Warm and Unique Designs : The decoration pack uses a combination of pastel colors and soft sunlight shadows, looking warm and unique, capturing hearts of most girls. This package contains everything you need for the sun theme 1st birthday party, without the need to search and buy every item separately.
• First Trip Around The Sun Birthday Decorations – Package includes: first trip around the sun backdrop, 3pcs 1st birthday balloon boxes, outer space 1st birthday monthly photo banner, space theme 1st birthday high chair banner, number 1 foil balloon, one cake topper, first birthday crown, 1st birthday milestone poster, 118pcs space theme balloon garland set.
• Premium Quality & Best Bang for Your Buck – Our first trip around the sun birthday party decorations are made from premium quality materials. Everything you’ve ever thought of for your baby’s one year old birthday party is now in this set, eliminate the need to go-shopping for individual elements(otherwise ending up spending more money and wasting more time). Moreover, superior print quality and high attention to details are sure make your baby’s first birthday parties stand out.
• First Birthday Decorations – Suitable for galaxy party, outer space first birthday party, space-themed party, solar system themed party, astronaut themed birthday party, boy’s birthday party and so on.
• First Trip Around The Sun 1st Birthday Party Decorations – Package includes: first trip around the sun backdrop, 3pcs one balloon box, one cake topper, baby monthly milestone photo banner, high chair banner, first birthday crown, number 1 foil balloon, 1st birthday milestone poster, 111pcs balloon garland set.
• Boho Sun First Birthday Decoration – These super cute boho sun party decorations in soft muted tones are perfect for a bohemian sunshine first birthday or evens and are suitable to use as a photo background. Place it on the wall, adding a little extra beauty to the party.
• Unique Design – The design of our decoration is based on the theme of Sun. The unique retro color system is combined with the sun element pattern printing, which will bring you a unique artistic conception and beautiful vision. Decorate your party with it and it will add more sparkle to the party.
• First Trip Around the Sun Birthday Party Decoration Pack: Include first trip around the sun birthday crown, 1x cake topper and 12 x cupcake toppers, 1x space party backdrop，1x sun system tablecloth, 1x highchair banner,1x photo banner, 1x milestone poster, 1 x astronaut and 1x rocket aluminum balloon, 1 x star and 1 x moon balloon, 1 x number “1” balloon, 70 x latex balloons, 3 party balloon blocks.
• Quality out of the Ordinary: Felt crown and cake toppers are made of soft and sturdy felt, not easily colour-fading. Needle and rope came with package to help assembling. Outer space background cloth is made of high quality polyester fabric, which is soft and no wrinkles. Plastic table cover is durable. Every balloon is carefully selected avoiding breakages. Everything you need for an amazing first trip around the sun birthday party are included.
• Outer Space Unique Design : Special designed outer space patterns everywhere in this valuable pack. We were inspired by the cosmos, planets, solar system and science, all with a galaxy color palette of dusty blues, silver, white and marble agate. Astronaut themed balloon arch and space themed backdrop will really add to the party decor, use it to greet your guests ,and this doubles as a photo backdrop too!

• Package include:1 pack happy birthday banner ,20pcs 9in Sun one paper plates,20pcs 7in Sun one paper plates,20pcs 9oz first trip Inspired around the Sun paper cups,40pcs sun paper napkins and 2pcs individually packed sun table cloth.
• Size:Table cloth are 51.2″ x 86.6″,cups are 9oz,plates are 9in and 7in,napkins are 13*13in.Tablecloth are Disposable Plastic Waterproof Rectangular Table Covers .
• Suit For:Boho one Sun Birthday Party,First Trip Inspired Around The Sun Birthday,Boho Hippie Sunshine Boho One Sun Baby Shower Party Supplies Decorations.

• 【Package Contents】: You will receive three boho sun tablecloths, providing enough for you to replace and use. Each tablecloth measures 54 x 108 inches, fitting most tables on the market.
• 【Boho Sun Design】: These First Around the Sun Baby Shower Tablecloths feature bright colors and attractive sun patterns, evoking the warmth of sunshine. Decorating your table with these boho sun table covers is an excellent choice.
• 【Enduring Material】: These boho sun tablecloths are made of high-quality PE plastic. They are soft, lightweight, durable, and resistant to fading. Additionally, they are foldable, making them the ideal choice for your hippie birthday decorations.

• Package Includes: Our enchanting 1st birthday Boho sun baby shower decorations set is perfect for 24 guests. It features 24 each of 7″ dessert plates, 9″ dinner plates, 6.5″ paper napkins, and 9oz cups, along with 24 sleek forks. The centerpiece is a lavish 54 x 108-inch first trip around the sun tablecloth. Elevate your first trip around the sun party with these exquisite decorations!
• First Trip Around the Sun Design: Our design is inspired by the radiant golden sunshine, symbolizing hope and vibrant health. Adorned with adorable Boho-style patterns and heartfelt blessings, this set is tailor-made to bring smiles to all your guests at the one-year-old’s birthday celebration.
• Quality Material: These items are not only non-toxic and odor-free but also boast stunning, fade-resistant patterns and colors. As an added bonus, we’ve included a First Trip Around the Sun tablecloth that’s perfect for baby shower-themed party and 1st birthday party decorations, ensuring a delightful and heartwarming celebration for you.

• Package Contents:These package including 24pcs 7 inch paper plates,24pcs 9 inch paper plates,24pcs napkins,and 24pcs plastic black forks.You don’t need to spend extra time to choose,so you will spend more time with your party.
• Quality Material:The set of outer space paper plates and napkins are made of high-quality materials,and the forks are made of light and thin plastic.The surface of disposable dinnerware set can be waterproof and oil-proof,which will make a safe guarantee for the health of your family and friends.
• Unique Design:The design of our 1st trip around the sun tableware set is based on the theme of outer space. The unique retro color system is combined with the outer space element pattern printing, which will bring you a unique artistic conception and beautiful vision.

• What You Will Get: the package includes 48 pieces of first trip around the sun cake topper with 6 designs, 8 pieces of each design, and 48 sticks and 60 dots, sufficient quantity to meet your 1st birthday party needs, diverse designs to meet your different favors
• First Trip Around the Sun Theme: sunshine cupcake toppers adopt sun and sunshine as the main design, and they are designed in vibrant and bright colors, fancy and beautiful, fresh and simple, which can well decorate your birthday party and let you and your guests have a memorable time
• Quality Material: made of quality cardstock, these sun cupcake toppers are strong and thick enough, odorless and safe, not easy to break; In addition, it also adopts fine printing technology, so the pattern is clear and not easy to fade

• 【1st Trip Around the Sun Birthday Decor;Serve 24 Guests】:The 1st trip around the sun birthday decorations pack include everything you need to prepare for celebration event.You will get 1Pcs boho sun tablecloth;size is 137 x 274 cm/ 54 x 108 inches,large enough to cover any standard 8-foot rectangular table.24Pcs 9 inch dinner plates;24Pcs 7 inch dessert plates;24Pcs paper cup;24Pcs napkins;24Pcs knives;24Pcs forks;24Pcs spoons and a creative boho rainbow banner.
• 【Reliable Material;Thicken;Safe for Kids】:The boho sun birthday tablecloth is made of quality PE material, safe and reliable, soft and smooth, sturdy and waterproof.All plates,napkins and cups are made from top-notch paper,which can easily hold any kind of food or drink without leaking or tearing.Larger sun plates are good for both dining and serving.Smaller plates are ideally sized for snacks, cupcakes and more.Natural materials make you get ready for fun at any celebration events.
• 【All in One Set;Applicable for Most Occasions】:The 1st birthday party supplies set is perfect for boys girls kids first trip around the sun birthday party;boho sun birthday decorations;1st and first birthday party supplies;sunshine party decorations;you are my sunshine;here comes the sun themed party;baby shower decorations and more.The celebration occasion will be amazing with the first birthday party supplies set.

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Sun rises over Normandy’s beaches on D-Day’s 80th anniversary

U TAH BEACH, France (AP) — As the sun sets on  the D-Day generation , it rose again over Normandy beaches where soldiers fought and died exactly 80 years ago Thursday, kicking off intense anniversary commemorations against the backdrop of renewed war in Europe,  in Ukraine .

Ever-dwindling numbers of  World War II veterans  who have pilgrimaged back to France, and Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine that has dashed hopes that  lives and cities  wouldn’t again be laid to waste in Europe, are making the poignant anniversary of the June 6, 1944, Allied landings even more so 80 years on.

As now-centenarian veterans revisit old memories and  fallen comrades buried in Normandy graves , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presence at D-Day commemorations with world leaders who are supporting Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion —  including United States President Joe Biden  — will inevitably fuse together World War II’s awful past with the fraught present on Thursday.

The break of dawn almost eight decades exactly after Allied troops waded ashore under hails of gunfire on five code-named beaches — Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword — kicked off a day of remembrance by Allied nations now standing together again behind Ukraine — and with World War II ally Russia not invited by host France. It cited Russia’s “war of aggression against Ukraine that has intensified in recent weeks” for the snub.

With the dead and wounded on both sides in Ukraine estimated in the hundreds of thousands, commemorations for the  more than 4,400 Allied dead  on D-Day and many tens of thousands more,  including French civilians , killed in the ensuing Battle of Normandy are tinged with concerns that  World War II lessons are being lost .

“There are things worth fighting for,” said World War II veteran Walter Stitt, who fought in tanks and turns 100 in July, as he visited Omaha Beach this week. “Although I wish there was another way to do it than to try to kill each other.”

“We’ll learn one of these days, but I won’t be around for that,” he said.

Conscious of the inevitability that major D-Day anniversaries will soon take place without World War II veterans, huge throngs of aficionados in uniforms and riding vehicles of the time, and tourists soaking up the spectacle, have flooded Normandy for the 80th anniversary.

“It’s so historic and we just have to remember the sacrifices of everybody who gave us our freedom,” said Becky Kraubetz, a Briton now living in Florida whose grandfather served with the British Army during World War II and was captured in Malta.

“It gives you goosebumps, everything that happened here. Imagine just jumping into the water, freezing cold,” the 54-year-old said as she gazed across the English Channel, tears in her eyes. “The bravery, the courage, for people to face that is just unbelievable — very, very humbled to be here.”

She was among a crowd of thousands of people that stretched for several kilometers (miles) along Utah Beach, the westernmost of the D-Day beaches.

In a quiet spot away from the official ceremonies, France’s Christophe Receveur performed his own tribute, unfurling an American flag he had bought on a trip to Pennsylvania to honor those who died on D-Day.

“To forget them is to let them die all over again,” the 57-year-old said as he and his daughter, Julie, then carefully refolded the flag into a tight triangle, adding that those now dying in Ukraine fighting the invading Russian army were also on his mind.

“All these troops came to liberate a country that they didn’t know for an ideology — democracy, freedom — that is under severe strain now,” he said.

The fair-like atmosphere fueled by World War II-era jeeps and trucks tearing down hedge-rowed lanes so deadly for Allied troops who fought dug-in German defenders, and of reenactors playing at war on sands where D-Day soldiers fell, leave open the question of what meaning anniversaries will have once the veterans are gone.

But at the 80th, they’re the VIPs of commemorations across the Normandy coast where the largest-ever land, sea and air armada punctured Hitler’s defenses in Western Europe and helped precipitate his downfall 11 months later.

“They really were the golden generation, those 17-, 18-year-old guys doing something so brave,” said James Baker, a 56-year-old from the Netherlands, reflecting as dawn broke on Utah Beach.

Farther up the coast on Gold Beach, a military bagpiper played at precisely the time that British troops landed there 80 years ago.

The United Kingdom’s King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak were among those at a ceremony later in the day to honor the troops who landed there and on Sword Beach, while Prince William and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joined others at ceremony for the Canadian troops who landed on Juno Beach.

In his address, the king told the crowd that the world was fortunate that a generation “did not flinch” when they were called upon.

“Our obligation to remember what they stood for and what they achieved for us all can never diminish,” he said.

Speaking in French, Charles also paid tribute to the “unimaginable number” of French civilians killed in the battle for Normandy, and the bravery and sacrifice of the French Resistance.

Biden was to take part in a ceremony later at the American cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach.

Those who traveled to Normandy include  women who were among the millions  who built bombers, tanks and other weaponry and played other  vital World War II roles  that were long overshadowed by the combat exploits of men.

“We weren’t doing it for honors and awards. We were doing it to save our country. And we ended up helping save the world,” said 98-year-old Anna Mae Krier, who worked as a riveter building B-17 and B-29 bombers.

Feted where ever they go in wheelchairs and walking with canes, veterans are using their voices to repeat their message they hope will live eternal: Never forget.

“To know the amount of people who were killed here, just amazing,” 98-year-old Allan Chatwin, who served with the U.S. Navy in the Pacific, said as he visited Omaha, the deadliest of the Allied beaches on D-Day.

He quickly added: “I don’t know that amazing is the word.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.

World News | D-Day anniversary haunted by dwindling number…

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World News | D-Day anniversary haunted by dwindling number of veterans and shadowed by Europe’s new war

American WWII veteran Bill Wall throws roses into the water during a wreath-laying ceremony at Utah Beach, Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Utah Beach, Normandy,. World War II veterans from across the United States as well as Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

American WWII veterans Bill Wall, left, and Bob Tedesco attend a ceremony on Omaha Beach, Tuesday, June 4, 2024 in Normandy. World War II veterans from across the United States as well as Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

Roses lay ashore during a wreath-laying ceremony at Utah Beach, Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Utah Beach, Normandy,. World War II veterans from across the United States as well as Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

FILE – U.S. soldiers stand on the remains of a house as they inspect damage in Carentan, in the Normandy region of France, June 15, 1944. The 80th anniversary this week of D-Day is a mixed bag of emotions for French survivors of the Battle of Normandy. They remain eternally grateful for their liberation from Nazi occupation in World War II but cannot forget its steep cost in French lives. (AP Photo/Peter Carroll, File)

OMAHA BEACH, France (AP) — As young soldiers, they waded through breaking waves and gunfire to battle the Nazis. Now bent with age, the dwindling number of World War II veterans joined a new generation of leaders on Thursday to honor the dead, the living and the fight for democracy on the shores where they landed 80 years ago on D-Day.

The war in Ukraine shadowed the ceremonies in Normandy, a grim modern-day example of lives and cities that are again suffering through war in Europe. Ukraine’s president was greeted with a standing ovation and cheers. Russia, a crucial World War II ally whose full-scale invasion of its smaller neighbor in 2022 set Europe on a new path of war, was not invited.

The commemorations for the more than 4,400 Allied dead on D-Day and many tens of thousands more, including French civilians , killed in the ensuing Battle of Normandy were tinged with fear that World War II lessons are fading .

“There are things worth fighting for,” said Walter Stitt, who fought in tanks and turns 100 in July, as he visited Omaha Beach this week. “Although I wish there was another way to do it than to try to kill each other.”

“We’ll learn one of these days, but I won’t be around for that,” he said.

U.S. President Joe Biden directly linked Ukraine’s fight for its young democracy to the battle to defeat Nazi Germany.

“To surrender to bullies, to bow down to dictators is simply unthinkable,” Biden said. “If we were to do that, it means we’d be forgetting what happened here on these hallowed beaches.”

As now-centenarian veterans revisited old memories and fallen comrades buried in Normandy graves , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presence at the international D-Day commemoration fused World War II’s awful past with the fraught present. The dead and wounded on both sides in Ukraine are estimated in the hundreds of thousands.

Despite Russia’s absence, French President Emmanuel Macron paid homage to those who fought on the eastern front “and the resolute commitment of the Red Army and all the people who were part of the then-Soviet Union.”

But it was the landing on June 6, 1944, and the battles in Normandy that followed that ultimately drove the Nazis from France.

“You came here because the free world needed each and every one of you, and you answered the call,” Macron said. “You came here to make France a free nation. You’re back here today at home, if I may say.”

The French president awarded the Legion of Honor to 14 U.S. veterans and a British female veteran. Among the Americans was Edward Berthold, a pilot who carried out his three missions over France in May 1944, before taking part in an operation in Saint-Lo, in Normandy, on D-Day. He flew 35 combat missions in all during World War II.

Berthold later read aloud a letter he’d written home the next day, showing that even as a young man he was aware of D-Day’s importance.

“Wednesday night, June 7th, 1944. Dear Mom, just a few lines to tell you we are all ok. We flew mission number 10 on D-Day,” he wrote. “It certainly was a terrific show, what we could see. This is what everyone has been waiting for.”

Macron also bestowed the Legion of Honor on 103-year-old Christian Lamb, the daughter of a Royal Navy admiral who was studying in Normandy in 1939 when her father called her back to London. There, Lamb created detailed maps that guided the crews of landing craft on D-Day.

The French president bent down to Lamb in a wheelchair, pin the medal and kiss her on both cheeks, describing her as one of the “heroes in the shadows.”

Conscious of the inevitability of age and time for World War II veterans, throngs of aficionados in period uniforms and vehicles, along with tourists soaking up the spectacle, flooded Normandy for the 80th anniversary. At the international ceremony later, the veterans received a standing ovation as they were paraded before the stands in a stately line of wheelchairs to avoid the long walk across the beachfront promenade.

“We just have to remember the sacrifices of everybody who gave us our freedom,” said Becky Kraubetz, a Briton now living in Florida whose grandfather served with the British Army during World War II and was captured in Malta. She was among a crowd of thousands of people that stretched for several kilometers (miles) along Utah Beach, the westernmost of the D-Day beaches.

In a quiet spot away from the pomp, France’s Christophe Receveur offered his own tribute, unfurling an American flag he had bought on a trip to Pennsylvania to honor those who died on D-Day.

“To forget them is to let them die all over again,” the 57-year-old said as he and his daughter, Julie, carefully refolded the flag into a tight triangle. Those now dying in Ukraine fighting the invading Russian army were also on his mind.

“All these troops came to liberate a country that they didn’t know for an ideology — democracy, freedom — that is under severe strain now,” he said.

For Warren Goss, a 99-year-old American veteran of D-Day who landed in the first waves on Utah Beach, the sacrifice was affirmed by a visit years later to the same place where his comrades fell.

“I looked at the beach and it was beautiful, all the people, the kids were playing and I see the boys and girls were walking, holding hands, with their life back,” he told the Danish king and prime minister, who hung on his words.

The fair-like atmosphere on the five code-named beaches — Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword — was fueled by World War II-era jeeps and trucks tearing down hedge-rowed lanes so deadly for Allied troops who fought dug-in German defenders, and of reenactors playing at war on sands where D-Day soldiers fell.

But the real VIPs of the commemorations across the Normandy coast were the veterans who took part in the largest-ever land, sea and air armada that punctured Hitler’s defenses in Western Europe and helped precipitate his downfall 11 months later.

“They really were the golden generation, those 17-, 18-year-old guys doing something so brave,” said James Baker, a 56-year-old from the Netherlands, reflecting on Utah Beach.

Farther up the coast on Gold Beach, a military bagpiper played at precisely the time that British troops landed there 80 years ago.

The United Kingdom’s King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak were among those at a ceremony to honor the troops who landed there and on Sword Beach, while Prince William and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joined others at ceremony for the Canadian troops at Juno Beach.

In his address, the king told the crowd that the world was fortunate that a generation “did not flinch” when they were called upon.

“Our obligation to remember what they stood for and what they achieved for us all can never diminish,” he said.

Speaking in French, Charles also paid tribute to the “unimaginable number” of French civilians killed in the battle for Normandy, and the bravery and sacrifice of the French Resistance.

Those who traveled to Normandy include women who were among the millions who built bombers, tanks and other weaponry and played other vital World War II roles that were long overshadowed by the combat exploits of men.

Feted everywhere they go in wheelchairs and walking with canes, veterans are using their voices to repeat their message they hope will live eternal: Never forget.

“We weren’t doing it for honors and awards. We were doing it to save our country,” said 98-year-old Anna Mae Krier, who worked as a riveter building B-17 and B-29 bombers. “We ended up helping save the world.”

Associated Press writers Jill Lawless in London, and Jeffrey Schaeffer, Mark Carlson, Bela Szandelszky, Helena Alves and Alex Turnbull along the Normandy coast, contributed to this report.

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Veterans gather for their last big D-Day anniversary under the cloud of a new war in Europe

CAEN, France — For almost 80 years, the United States and Europe told themselves that a lasting postwar peace had been won here, in the bloody shallows and sands along 6 miles of Normandy beach.

On Thursday — the 80th anniversary of D-Day , perhaps the last major milestone for many of the invasion’s dwindling heroes — that peace in Europe finds itself shattered .

Replacing it are fears of another world war that until recently seemed outlandish, uncertainty about Washington’s European allyship that the Normandy landings cemented, and questions about the future of the Western alliance itself.

For many, the ideals that D-Day helped win are at risk of fading along with its survivors.

“I believe that freedom and democracy are definitely under threat,” D-Day veteran Harold Terens, 100, told NBC News on Monday.

He spent that day working as a radio operator mechanic based in Yorkshire, northern England, communicating with 60 P-47 Thunderbolt fighter planes flying over France — only 30 of which returned. Twelve days later he traveled to Normandy in person to transport freshly freed American prisoners of war back to England, and pick up newly captured Germans.

“It was one of the most disgusting things I’ve seen in my life,” said Terens, who lives in Lake Worth, Florida. “Bodies without arms and legs, bodies without heads — war is hell,” he added, referencing the quote first attributed to Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, who fought on the side of the Union during the Civil War.

More than 150,000 Allied troops landed in Nazi-occupied France on June 6, 1944, including 73,000 Americans, 60,000 British and 15,000 Canadians. It was the largest amphibious invasion in history, a meticulously planned assault that altered the course of World War II — and the 20th century.

Around 4,500 Allies died, including some 2,500 Americans, in their historic bid to loosen Nazi Germany’s grip over mainland Europe. 

And so for a few weeks every year, Normandy is transformed into a festival of remembrance, with cities, villages and cemeteries festooned with flags — including many American flags flown by French locals — while playing host to concerts, parades and ceremonies.

It’s not clear how many veterans are still alive. But some 150 Americans who took part in the monthslong Battle of Normandy, including two dozen D-Day veterans, are expected to make the trip to France this year, according to the American Battle Monuments Commission, the government agency overseeing cemeteries and monuments abroad.

The centerpiece will be a ceremony attended by President Joe Biden, his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain’s Prince William and other world leaders. Biden will give a speech about defending freedom and democracy.

“D-Day is a critical moment for President Biden to speak to what our collective security has done to deliver mostly a peaceful Europe since the second world war,” said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a friend of Biden and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “This is a chance to demonstrate what I think President Biden has been so good at. It’s not America alone. It’s not America first, but America as a critical leader in the world and as the indispensable nation.”

Still, the stars are the veterans.

NBC News is spending part of the week traveling with a busload of 50 American vets who have been brought over by the Best Defense Foundation charity, based in California.

They are set to include Richard “Dick” Ramsey, aged 100, a coxswain aboard the USS Nevada as it fired shells into the D-Day battlefield and narrowly missed getting hit in return. Also expected on the bus is Richard Rung, 100, who ferried troops to Omaha Beach while hosing his fellow soldiers’ blood from the small landing craft.

The youngest D-Day veterans are in their 90s; for many this will be the last major milestone they see as this event begins to pass out of living memory.

For the French, the legacy of D-Day is more complex. There is the decadeslong veneration of their Allied liberators, but also lament for the 20,000 Normandy locals killed in the assault, with cities such as Caen razed to rubble.

Macron says now is the right time to acknowledge these memories. On Wednesday, the French  president is expected to emphasize this point at a ceremony in Saint-Lô, a city whose destruction in the battle was so complete that in 1946 Irish novelist Samuel Beckett named it “the Capital of Ruins,” a moniker that has become widely used since.

With questions over Washington’s long-term commitment to Europe, Macron has attempted to cast himself as a de facto leader on European security, calling for more defense spending and refusing to rule out deploying French troops to Ukraine — much to Moscow’s fury.

It’s perhaps no surprise, then, that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not invited this year.

This presents an awkward juxtaposition for those involved. Many feel it would be untenable to include a Russian delegation while its soldiers wage unprovoked war on Ukraine, an attritional grind of tanks, troops and artillery whose scale evokes WWII itself.

At the same time, it is impossible to tell the story of Nazi defeat without the Soviet Union.

After Adolf Hitler reneged on a nonaggression pact and invaded the Soviet Union, the Red Army spent millions of lives fighting back, repelling the Nazi advance in what was a pyrrhic Soviet victory on the Eastern Front.

“It’s a very changed time,” said John M. Koenig, a veteran American career diplomat who served as ambassador to Cyprus and was posted in Belgium and Italy before retiring in 2015 . “The perception of Russia, and the way ahead, is far darker than it was back when we used to invite Vladimir Putin to the celebrations.”

“It’s a different Europe than it was,” he added. It is not “one of compromise, cooperation and common interests that we had hoped even, I would say, up until at least 10 years ago.”

Many in Europe fear that if Moscow’s aggression goes unpunished, other countries, such as the Baltic states and perhaps even Poland, could come into the Kremlin’s crosshairs.

Ukraine has been armed to the teeth by the West, receiving $50 billion of missiles, tanks and air defense systems from Washington. But many observers are nonetheless questioning the future of the Western unity.

Looming large is the American presidential election between Biden and Donald Trump, the former president and presumptive Republican nominee. Trump has previously suggested he would withdraw from NATO, and many Ukraine allies fear he could end support for its defense against Russia.

Compounding this, European Parliament elections this month look certain to herald victories for far-right and nationalist parties, some of which share Trump’s skepticism on the importance of helping Ukraine resist Russia’s invasion.

John Kelly, a retired four-star general and Trump’s longest-serving White House chief of staff, said in an interview: “People make the argument that American forces should come home. We made that mistake once after World War I.”

“Yes, our allies and partners need to do more for themselves and live up to their financial commitments,” added Kelly, who had a falling out with Trump. "But we tested isolationism once before, and it didn’t work. The rules-based world order works and if it’s going to work America must lead it.”

Also testing Washington’s relationship with its historic partners is the Israel-Hamas war. 

Israel faces accusations of genocide and possible arrest warrants in international court, leaving the country and its chief ally, the U.S., increasingly isolated on the global stage. They have both rejected the accusations.

Israel’s assault on the Gaza Strip has killed more than 36,000 people, according to local officials, and the Palestinian enclave needs $40 billion in postwar reconstruction — the largest since 1945 — the United Nations estimates. Meanwhile, eight decades since the Nazi murder of 6 million Jews, the deadly Oct. 7 attack and its aftermath have stirred fears of rising antisemitism in the U.S. and Europe.

And yet, amid the horror both historical and contemporary, there are shards of light here, among the hedgerows and headstones of mild-but-overcast northern France.

Terens, the D-Day radio operator, has traveled back here to get married, at the age of 100, to his 96-year-old fiancee Jeanne Swerlin.

“Love is not reserved for the young,” he said. “We need a little action ourselves.”

The pair met in 2021, and 40 family members have traveled over from the U.S. for their ceremony and parade June 8. Most poignant will be those not able to attend in person.

“I’m spiritual, and I came here to invite all those soldiers buried on Omaha Beach, 9,836 of them, to my wedding,” he said. “I’d like them to attend in spirit. And I want them to know that they’re not forgotten.”

Alexander Smith is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital based in London.

Peter Nicholas is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

D-Day anniversary haunted by dwindling number…

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D-day anniversary haunted by dwindling number of veterans and shadowed by europe’s new war.

American WWII veteran Bill Wall throws roses into the water during a wreath-laying ceremony at Utah Beach, Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Utah Beach, Normandy,. World War II veterans from across the United States as well as Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

American WWII veterans Bill Wall, left, and Bob Tedesco attend a ceremony on Omaha Beach, Tuesday, June 4, 2024 in Normandy. World War II veterans from across the United States as well as Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

Roses lay ashore during a wreath-laying ceremony at Utah Beach, Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Utah Beach, Normandy,. World War II veterans from across the United States as well as Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler’s defeat. (AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)

FILE – U.S. soldiers stand on the remains of a house as they inspect damage in Carentan, in the Normandy region of France, June 15, 1944. The 80th anniversary this week of D-Day is a mixed bag of emotions for French survivors of the Battle of Normandy. They remain eternally grateful for their liberation from Nazi occupation in World War II but cannot forget its steep cost in French lives. (AP Photo/Peter Carroll, File)

OMAHA BEACH, France (AP) — As young soldiers, they waded through breaking waves and gunfire to battle the Nazis. Now bent with age, the dwindling number of World War II veterans joined a new generation of leaders on Thursday to honor the dead, the living and the fight for democracy on the shores where they landed 80 years ago on D-Day.

The war in Ukraine shadowed the ceremonies in Normandy, a grim modern-day example of lives and cities that are again suffering through war in Europe. Ukraine’s president was greeted with a standing ovation and cheers. Russia, a crucial World War II ally whose full-scale invasion of its smaller neighbor in 2022 set Europe on a new path of war, was not invited.

The commemorations for the more than 4,400 Allied dead on D-Day and many tens of thousands more, including French civilians , killed in the ensuing Battle of Normandy were tinged with fear that World War II lessons are fading .

“There are things worth fighting for,” said Walter Stitt, who fought in tanks and turns 100 in July, as he visited Omaha Beach this week. “Although I wish there was another way to do it than to try to kill each other.”

“We’ll learn one of these days, but I won’t be around for that,” he said.

U.S. President Joe Biden directly linked Ukraine’s fight for its young democracy to the battle to defeat Nazi Germany.

“To surrender to bullies, to bow down to dictators is simply unthinkable,” Biden said. “If we were to do that, it means we’d be forgetting what happened here on these hallowed beaches.”

As now-centenarian veterans revisited old memories and fallen comrades buried in Normandy graves , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presence at the international D-Day commemoration fused World War II’s awful past with the fraught present. The dead and wounded on both sides in Ukraine are estimated in the hundreds of thousands.

Despite Russia’s absence, French President Emmanuel Macron paid homage to those who fought on the eastern front “and the resolute commitment of the Red Army and all the people who were part of the then-Soviet Union.”

But it was the landing on June 6, 1944, and the battles in Normandy that followed that ultimately drove the Nazis from France.

“You came here because the free world needed each and every one of you, and you answered the call,” Macron said. “You came here to make France a free nation. You’re back here today at home, if I may say.”

The French president awarded the Legion of Honor to 14 U.S. veterans and a British female veteran. Among the Americans was Edward Berthold, a pilot who carried out his three missions over France in May 1944, before taking part in an operation in Saint-Lo, in Normandy, on D-Day. He flew 35 combat missions in all during World War II.

Berthold later read aloud a letter he’d written home the next day, showing that even as a young man he was aware of D-Day’s importance.

“Wednesday night, June 7th, 1944. Dear Mom, just a few lines to tell you we are all ok. We flew mission number 10 on D-Day,” he wrote. “It certainly was a terrific show, what we could see. This is what everyone has been waiting for.”

Macron also bestowed the Legion of Honor on 103-year-old Christian Lamb, the daughter of a Royal Navy admiral who was studying in Normandy in 1939 when her father called her back to London. There, Lamb created detailed maps that guided the crews of landing craft on D-Day.

The French president bent down to Lamb in a wheelchair, pin the medal and kiss her on both cheeks, describing her as one of the “heroes in the shadows.”

Conscious of the inevitability of age and time for World War II veterans, throngs of aficionados in period uniforms and vehicles, along with tourists soaking up the spectacle, flooded Normandy for the 80th anniversary. At the international ceremony later, the veterans received a standing ovation as they were paraded before the stands in a stately line of wheelchairs to avoid the long walk across the beachfront promenade.

“We just have to remember the sacrifices of everybody who gave us our freedom,” said Becky Kraubetz, a Briton now living in Florida whose grandfather served with the British Army during World War II and was captured in Malta. She was among a crowd of thousands of people that stretched for several kilometers (miles) along Utah Beach, the westernmost of the D-Day beaches.

In a quiet spot away from the pomp, France’s Christophe Receveur offered his own tribute, unfurling an American flag he had bought on a trip to Pennsylvania to honor those who died on D-Day.

“To forget them is to let them die all over again,” the 57-year-old said as he and his daughter, Julie, carefully refolded the flag into a tight triangle. Those now dying in Ukraine fighting the invading Russian army were also on his mind.

“All these troops came to liberate a country that they didn’t know for an ideology — democracy, freedom — that is under severe strain now,” he said.

For Warren Goss, a 99-year-old American veteran of D-Day who landed in the first waves on Utah Beach, the sacrifice was affirmed by a visit years later to the same place where his comrades fell.

“I looked at the beach and it was beautiful, all the people, the kids were playing and I see the boys and girls were walking, holding hands, with their life back,” he told the Danish king and prime minister, who hung on his words.

The fair-like atmosphere on the five code-named beaches — Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword — was fueled by World War II-era jeeps and trucks tearing down hedge-rowed lanes so deadly for Allied troops who fought dug-in German defenders, and of reenactors playing at war on sands where D-Day soldiers fell.

But the real VIPs of the commemorations across the Normandy coast were the veterans who took part in the largest-ever land, sea and air armada that punctured Hitler’s defenses in Western Europe and helped precipitate his downfall 11 months later.

“They really were the golden generation, those 17-, 18-year-old guys doing something so brave,” said James Baker, a 56-year-old from the Netherlands, reflecting on Utah Beach.

Farther up the coast on Gold Beach, a military bagpiper played at precisely the time that British troops landed there 80 years ago.

The United Kingdom’s King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak were among those at a ceremony to honor the troops who landed there and on Sword Beach, while Prince William and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joined others at ceremony for the Canadian troops at Juno Beach.

In his address, the king told the crowd that the world was fortunate that a generation “did not flinch” when they were called upon.

“Our obligation to remember what they stood for and what they achieved for us all can never diminish,” he said.

Speaking in French, Charles also paid tribute to the “unimaginable number” of French civilians killed in the battle for Normandy, and the bravery and sacrifice of the French Resistance.

Those who traveled to Normandy include women who were among the millions who built bombers, tanks and other weaponry and played other vital World War II roles that were long overshadowed by the combat exploits of men.

Feted everywhere they go in wheelchairs and walking with canes, veterans are using their voices to repeat their message they hope will live eternal: Never forget.

“We weren’t doing it for honors and awards. We were doing it to save our country,” said 98-year-old Anna Mae Krier, who worked as a riveter building B-17 and B-29 bombers. “We ended up helping save the world.”

Associated Press writers Jill Lawless in London, and Jeffrey Schaeffer, Mark Carlson, Bela Szandelszky, Helena Alves and Alex Turnbull along the Normandy coast, contributed to this report.

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