40 Birthday Trivia Questions
Ready to add some fun and maybe a little friendly competition to your next birthday bash?
I’ve got you covered with some awesome birthday trivia questions that are sure to get everyone thinking (and maybe even laughing a little).
Whether you’re celebrating a friend, family member, or yourself, these questions will be a fun way to test everyone’s knowledge about birthdays and everything that goes along with them.
So let’s get this party started!
Birthday Trivia Questions
Q1. In which country do people celebrate their birthdays by slurping long noodles to symbolize a long life?
A. China.
In China, longevity noodles are a traditional dish served on birthdays. The length of the noodle represents the person’s life, and slurping the noodle without breaking it is believed to bring good luck and a long life.
Q2. Which popular birthday song was originally composed with different lyrics and titled “Good Morning to All”?
A. Happy Birthday to You.
The melody for “Happy Birthday to You” was written by sisters Patty and Mildred Hill in 1893, with the original lyrics being “Good Morning to All.” The familiar “Happy Birthday” lyrics were gradually adopted over time and the song became a global birthday anthem.
Q3. In some cultures, it’s considered bad luck to celebrate your birthday before the actual date. True or false?
A. True.
In several cultures, including Russia and Germany, celebrating a birthday in advance is thought to bring bad luck or even shorten the person’s life. It’s considered a more auspicious practice to wait for the actual date of birth for the celebration.
Q4. What is the traditional birthday gift for a 15th birthday in many Latin American countries?
A. Quinceañera.
This is a lavish celebration marking a girl’s transition to womanhood. It often involves a religious ceremony, a grand party, and the girl wearing a ball gown and tiara.
Q5. Which country is said to have originated the tradition of birthday candles?
A. Ancient Greece.
The ancient Greeks believed that candles held magical properties and would send prayers and wishes to the gods. They would place lit candles on cakes offered to Artemis, the goddess of the moon, symbolizing the glow of the moon.
Q6. What is the most common day of the week for birthdays in the United States?
A. Tuesday.
According to various studies and statistics, more babies are born on Tuesdays in the United States than any other day of the week. The least common day is Saturday.
Q7. In many Asian cultures, a person’s age is considered to be one year old at birth. True or false?
A. True.
This is known as the East Asian age reckoning system, where a person is considered one year old at birth and gains another year on each Lunar New Year, rather than their actual birthday. This means a person can be two years old in this system before they turn one in the Western age reckoning system.
Q8. Which famous painter is believed to have invented the birthday cake as we know it today?
A. Gerhard Richter.
Although cakes were used in birthday celebrations in ancient times, it was during the 18th century in Germany that the modern birthday cake with layered sponge, icing, and candles came into existence. Gerhard Richter, a German baker, is often credited with popularizing this form of the birthday cake.
Q9. In which country is it a tradition to give a friend or family member a birthday punch for each year of their life?
A. Ireland.
This tradition, particularly practiced in Ireland, involves giving lighthearted birthday punches, one for each year of age, followed by an extra one “for luck.”
Q10. What is the name of the traditional Swedish birthday song, often sung while clapping hands?
A. Ja må han/hon leva (May he/she live).
This joyful song is a staple in Swedish birthday celebrations and is sung while clapping hands and often accompanied by cheers. The song wishes the birthday person a long and happy life.
Q11. What traditional German pastry is often served on birthdays, especially for children?
A. Geburtstagszug (Birthday Train).
This charming cake is shaped like a train, with each carriage holding a candle and sometimes filled with treats like candy or small toys. It’s a festive way to celebrate birthdays, particularly for younger children.
Q12. In which country is it customary to hang a flag outside your home on your birthday?
A. Denmark.
Danish flags, known as Dannebrog, are flown proudly outside homes on birthdays. It’s a national symbol and a way to announce and celebrate the special day.
Q13. What is the name of the traditional Norwegian birthday treat that consists of a tower of ring-shaped donuts?
A. Kransekake.
This impressive tower cake is made of almond-based rings stacked on top of each other, often decorated with flags and icing. It’s a staple at Norwegian birthday celebrations and other special occasions.
Q14. In which country do people often wear colorful cone-shaped hats on their birthdays?
A. Vietnam.
These conical hats, called “nón lá,” are often adorned with colorful decorations and worn by birthday celebrants in Vietnam. They are a symbol of Vietnamese culture and are a fun addition to birthday festivities.
Q15. What is the traditional birthday gift for a 21st birthday in the United States?
A. A key.
This symbolizes the transition to adulthood and the newfound freedoms and responsibilities that come with it. While not as common as it once was, the key still holds symbolic meaning for many on their 21st birthday.
Q16. Which country is believed to have started the tradition of sending birthday cards?
A. England.
In the early 19th century, sending printed cards with birthday wishes became popular in England. This practice quickly spread to other countries and eventually evolved into the diverse array of birthday cards we see today.
Q17. In which country is it customary to lift the birthday person in the air for each year of their life, plus one for good luck?
A. Brazil.
This playful tradition involves friends and family gathering around the birthday person and lifting them into the air while everyone cheers. Each lift represents a year of life, and an extra one is added for good luck.
Q18. What is the name of the Japanese birthday dish that consists of red bean rice?
A. Sekihan.
This sweet and savory dish is often served on birthdays in Japan. The red color of the rice symbolizes happiness and good fortune, making it a fitting choice for a celebratory meal.
Q19. In which country is it customary for the birthday person to treat their friends and family to a meal or drinks?
A. South Korea.
Unlike many Western cultures where guests bring gifts and the birthday person is treated, in South Korea it’s the opposite. The birthday person is expected to pay for the celebration, showing their gratitude for the well-wishes and support from loved ones.
Q20. What is the name of the traditional Russian birthday song, similar to “Happy Birthday”?
A. S dnyom rozhdeniya.
This cheerful song is sung in Russian and follows a similar melody and structure to “Happy Birthday.” It translates to “Happy Birthday” and is a common way to express birthday wishes in Russia.
More Birthday Trivia Questions (Mostly About Famous People)
Q1. This acclaimed scientist was born on March 14, 1879, in Ulm, Germany. He developed the theory of relativity and is considered one of the most influential physicists of the 20th century. Who is he?
A1. Albert Einstein
Einstein’s theories of special and general relativity revolutionized our understanding of space, time, gravity, and the universe.
Q2. This iconic American actress and singer was born on April 28, 1928, in Haworth, New Jersey. She is best known for her roles in films like “Some Like It Hot,” “The Seven Year Itch,” and “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.” Who is she?
A2. Marilyn Monroe
Monroe was a symbol of the golden age of Hollywood and remains a cultural icon for her beauty, charm, and talent.
Q3. This visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple Inc. was born on February 24, 1955, in San Francisco, California. He is widely regarded as a pioneer of the personal computer revolution. Who is he?
A3. Steve Jobs
Jobs’ innovative products, such as the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad, transformed the technology industry and how people interact with devices.
Q4. This celebrated British playwright and poet was born on April 23, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. He is considered one of the greatest writers in the English language, with works like “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth.” Who is he?
A4. William Shakespeare
Shakespeare’s plays are timeless masterpieces that continue to be performed and studied worldwide, inspiring countless generations of writers and artists.
Q5. This legendary American musician and cultural icon was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He is often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll” and is known for hits like “Jailhouse Rock,” “Hound Dog,” and “Suspicious Minds.” Who is he?
A5. Elvis Presley
Presley’s energetic performances, charismatic personality, and groundbreaking music made him a global sensation and a defining figure of rock and roll.
Q6. This renowned Mexican painter, known for her self-portraits and vibrant colors, was born on July 6, 1907, in Coyoacán, Mexico City. Her works often explored themes of identity, pain, and the human condition. Who is she?
A6. Frida Kahlo
Kahlo’s art is celebrated for its unique style, personal symbolism, and powerful portrayals of female experiences.
Q7. This charismatic South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician was born on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, South Africa. He served as the country’s first black president from 1994 to 1999. Who is he?
A7. Nelson Mandela
Mandela’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation made him a global icon and a symbol of hope in the fight against oppression.
Q8. This influential Indian activist and leader of the Indian independence movement was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India. He is revered in India as the “Father of the Nation.” Who is he?
A8. Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience inspired movements for social change worldwide.
Q9. This trailblazing American aviator was born on February 4, 1902, in Atchison, Kansas. She was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932. Who is she?
A9. Amelia Earhart
Earhart’s adventurous spirit and aviation achievements made her a feminist icon and a symbol of female empowerment.
Q10. This celebrated American author, known for his novels and short stories, was born on July 21, 1899, in Oak Park, Illinois. His works, such as “The Great Gatsby” and “A Farewell to Arms,” capture the essence of the Jazz Age and explore themes of love, loss, and the American Dream. Who is he?
A10. Ernest Hemingway
Hemingway’s distinctive writing style, characterized by its simplicity and directness, revolutionized American literature and earned him a Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954.
Q11. This beloved children’s author, known for creating the magical world of Hogwarts, was born on July 31, 1965, in Yate, Gloucestershire, England. Her fantasy series has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Who is she?
A11. J.K. Rowling
Rowling’s Harry Potter series has become a global phenomenon, inspiring a generation of readers and spawning a successful film franchise.
Q12. This revolutionary Cuban leader was born on August 13, 1926, in Birán, Cuba. He led the Cuban Revolution in 1959 and served as Prime Minister and President of Cuba for decades. Who is he?
A12. Fidel Castro
Castro’s communist regime transformed Cuba and had a lasting impact on Latin American politics and international relations.
Q13. This iconic American pop artist, known for his vibrant paintings and silkscreens of celebrities and everyday objects, was born on August 6, 1928, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His works challenged traditional notions of art and consumerism. Who is he?
A13. Andy Warhol
Warhol’s art epitomized the Pop Art movement and remains influential in contemporary art and popular culture.
Q14. This pioneering female scientist, known for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity, was born on November 7, 1867, in Warsaw, Poland. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and the only person to win the Nobel Prize in two different scientific fields. Who is she?
A14. Marie Curie
Curie’s discoveries in physics and chemistry revolutionized our understanding of radiation and paved the way for advancements in medicine and technology.
Q15. This celebrated Italian Renaissance artist, known for his masterpieces like the “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper,” was born on April 15, 1452, in Vinci, Italy. He was a true polymath, excelling in painting, sculpting, architecture, science, and engineering. Who is he?
A15. Leonardo da Vinci
Da Vinci’s unparalleled genius and contributions to art, science, and technology continue to inspire and amaze people centuries later.
Q16. This influential American civil rights leader was born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia. He is best known for his role in the American civil rights movement and his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Who is he?
A16. Martin Luther King Jr.
King’s unwavering commitment to nonviolence and his powerful advocacy for racial equality transformed American society and inspired movements for social justice worldwide.
Q17. This beloved American children’s television host, known for his gentle demeanor and educational programs, was born on March 20, 1928, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He hosted “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” for over three decades, teaching generations of children about kindness, empathy, and self-acceptance. Who is he?
A17. Fred Rogers
Rogers’ positive influence on children’s television and his enduring legacy of promoting emotional well-being continue to be celebrated.
Q18. This influential British theoretical physicist, known for his groundbreaking work on black holes and cosmology, was born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, England. Despite living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), he became one of the most renowned scientists of our time. Who is he?
A18. Stephen Hawking
Hawking’s contributions to theoretical physics, particularly his theories on black holes and the origins of the universe, revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos.
Q19. This visionary American inventor and businessman, known for his contributions to the development of the electric light bulb and the modern electrical power system, was born on February 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio. His inventions transformed daily life and laid the foundation for the industrial age. Who is he?
A19. Thomas Edison
Edison’s tireless work ethic, innovative spirit, and numerous patents earned him the nickname “The Wizard of Menlo Park” and made him a pivotal figure in American history.
Q20. This acclaimed American writer, known for her novels and short stories exploring themes of race, gender, and identity, was born on February 4, 1928, in Eatonville, Florida. Her works, such as “Their Eyes Were Watching God” and “The Bluest Eye,” have become classics of American literature. Who is she?
A20. Zora Neale Hurston
Hurston’s vivid portrayal of African American life and culture in the early 20th century, combined with her unique storytelling style, established her as a significant voice in American literature.
