History of Birthday Parties

In the beginning, it was royalty that first celebrated birthdays.  Having a party was a way to ward off the evil spirits, since one is surrounded by family and friends in a celebration of life. These evils spirits were thought to be more active on the day of ones birth.  A celebration or gathering became a protection from harm.  Giving gifts brought even more good cheer.  Later in Germany, children were included in the birthday parties.  And so began birthday parties!