What Would You Do to Celebrate Your Mom's 80Th Birthday?

For me it depends on her health & personality. My grandma is a VERY hearty 90 year old and we had a huge bash for her 2 months ago (at a country club, so no one had to be the official host/ess). All her great-grandchildren were there (LOTS of little kids). My aunt hired a professional photographer for the evening, so we were able to get some great candids and family pictures together. We did a roast, where we all had the chance to tell humorous stories about her--she's QUITE the character :)

What is your mom's tolerance level for noise?
Does she see her grandkids often?
Is she in good health?
Will the kids be very upset if not included?

My mom is 75 and there's NO WAY she would want a dinner without her grandkids/great-grandkids there.....but you know your mom best...

when my grandpa turned 80 we reserved the hall at church and he had about 100 people there. everyone from the smallest great-grandbaby to his siblings, also in their 80's. EVERYONE came. it was really special. my aunt did a video montage that we all helped make by telling special memories or good wishes to him, and a few people gave "toasts" or mini speeches. they had a great cake too, and punch. there were a lot of tears and it was just really moving. he is the type of man who doesn't always get told how appreciated and loved he is, so it was very special.

I would make a BIG deal out of it, with everyone there, make a day of it.

My mom will be 80 in April 2013, Lord willing, and we have a plan...she LOVES CSI:Miami, and we're getting a very good look-alike of Horatio to drive up and wish her a Happy Birthday, with party to follow.

I think it depends on her and what you think she would like. My mom's 70th is tomorrow and Friday night we (my family, my brother and his wife, my dad and my grandma) are taking her out for a nice dinner. I bought her some nice gifts. My grandma turns 90 in May and she's made it pretty clear she wants a big party. My parents had a joint big party they threw for themselves when they turned 60. For their upcoming 50th anniversary in a couple of years they've expressed interest in an extended family vacation or cruise. So, we've done it both ways.

both.

a big party. AND dinner with just her kids.

we did a huge surprise party for my grandma. She cried when she walked in. it was wonderful. She thought she was coming to a family dinner and we had all of her friends and even some extended family. It was great!