WHEN BIRTHDAYS MEANT SIMPLE JOYS OF LIFE

A look at childhood parties, family traditions, and how celebrations have changed in the UAE

- BY MICHAEL GUZDER | Special to Gulf News

Remember your childhood birthday parties — the thrill of guests, the cake, the games, the laughter? Now imagine a simpler time — my birthdays as a child — small, homely affairs, full of surprises that seem quaint today. (Yes, I’m that old!)

Parties were held at home, with about 15 friends and an adult nearby. They started at 4pm on a Saturday, no matter the actual birthday. Friends arrived neatly dressed, on time, carrying gifts wrapped in shiny kite paper. Out came the box camera — “Say cheese!”