Birthday parties had their origin in the families of Royals, prior to the advent of Christianity, when celebrations were held as a celebration of life, and to ward off evil spirits. Held amongst family and friends, birthday parties were thought to provide protection from harm on the day of one's birth - a day on which evil spirits were thought to be particularly active.
Giving gifts on the day brought even more good cheer. It was believed to be in Germany that children were first included in the "birthday party ritual". Today, birthday parties are of course the norm around the world and, certainly amongst kids, are occasions celebrated with fun, festivity, delicacies and gifts.