History tells us that this came about because as Ancient people began to learn about the world’s cycles, calendars were developed. Birthdays were some of the first special events people recorded in them.

        Now ancient people try to ignore their Birthdays, but their friends just won’t let them…

Birthday Party

        It was believed that people were more susceptible to good and evil spirits on their Birthday’s. When they had a Birthday therefore, friends and relatives gathered around to protect them.

        Birthday Parties involve a lot of spirits these days too. They’re usually considered good on the day, and evil the day after.

Saying Happy Birthday

        This evolved because good wishes were thought to offer encouragement to good spirits to bring luck for the Birthday person. Anyway, “How are you doin’ you Old Timer” doesn’t have the same ring to it really.

Sending Birthday Cards

        Was used as a means of apology when you were not able to see someone on their Birthday.

        Nowadays the apology is necessary for sending them, as usually the more insulting they are, the more likely they are to be sent.

Birthday bumps, hair pulling etc.

        Many parts of the world see it as lucky to give the Birthday person bumps, pinches, or to pull their hair. These actions are supposed to deter evil spirits and to send them away.

        So remember, if someone punches you on your Birthday, it’s really lucky.

Party blowers, balloons and horns

        Came to be as just another way of scaring off those evil spirits.

Now they’re also a way of ensuring that you stay awake and don’t miss too much of your Birthday when you’ve had too much to drink.

Giving Birthday Presents

        Is also an old tradition to bring happiness, as this stopped those evil spirits ruining the day.

        The giving of presents these days is more likely to be in the hope that you receive something good back on your Birthday.

Customs and Traditions

        So many Birthday customs came about to try to ensure good luck and a happy future for the Birthday person The rituals and games were meant to work their magic throughout the year ahead.

        A face lift, diet, and strict exercise regime would have more chance of working their magic on people following yet another Birthday.

HOPE THE BIRTHDAY SPIRITS ARE KIND TO YOU, WHATEVER FORM THEY TAKE!