All About Birthdays Archives

Why August Is the Best Month for Birthdays

August, named after the Latin term for “majestic and magnificent,” is summertime’s glorious victory lap. The warmest season always flies by, but, after two months of non-stop fun in the sun, August grants us one last chance to stop and smell the flowers before school resumes and business ramps back up. (There’s a reason National Lazy Day is Aug. 10 and National Relaxation Day is Aug. 15.)

august birthdays with friends having party in swimming pool

August is also a fine month for a birthday — no major holidays to compete with, summer vacations are mostly winding down, we get extra-long periods of daylight, and of the three summer months, August tends to have the least rainfall. And as birthday gifts go, we’ll let you in on a little secret: August is absolute prime time for receiving great presents, that sweet spot on the calendar when we find late-summer clearance sales and new products for fall (and even winter) start hitting the shelves.

But, August babies, it gets even better. You possess some invaluable natural gifts that can’t be wrapped.

August babies are positively lucky

august birthdays with baby playing happily under an umbrella

Nothing beats a lucky streak and the happiness that accompanies it. A European study found those born in the summer months, and August especially, were significantly more likely to consider themselves lucky in life. Another survey links the feeling of luck with less anxiety and neuroticism, and a greater level of outgoing behavior.

Vanderbilt University also found those with August birthdays are less likely to develop depression than those born in the cooler months. Why? Scientists theorize that because mothers who give birth in August are exposed to high levels of vitamin D (aka the “sunshine vitamin”) during the last stages of their pregnancy — a result of the season’s extended daylight hours — their newborn’s “biological clock” may be permanently, and positively, altered.

August babies are healthier in mind and body

Not only are August-born individuals naturally more positive, but they have also been found less likely to suffer from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia than those born in any other month — again thanks to the vitamin D boost they receive from extended exposure to daylight experienced by late-term summer mothers. Furthering that concept, a study in Denmark also found that babies with low vitamin D levels at birth were more likely to develop schizophrenia later in life. Physical benefits abound too: Studies suggest summer babies have the healthiest average birth weights and grow to be taller than most people. Girls born in the summer also tend to experience a later onset of puberty, which is associated with lower risks of breast and throat cancer.

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August’s birth flowers honor and pay homage

August’s first birth flower is the gladiolus, or “sword lily,” a name based on the Latin translation of its genus name as well as its sword-shaped blooms. Native to South Africa, the flower made its way to Europe in the 1700s. Today, it blooms around the world in array of colors, each with a different meaning: A red sword lily declares the giver’s heart is “pierced with love,” yellow expresses warm-hearted compassion, pink is a sign of motherly love, and purple speaks to mysterious charm. The gladiolus also provides more than pretty petals: South Africans have used the sword lily’s roots, blooms, and seed sacs for centuries to treat colic, skin inflammations, and wound infections.

august birtdhays with young woman smelling a red poppy in flower meadow in summer sunset

The poppy, August’s second birth flower, was first cultivated in Mesopotamia nearly four millennia ago, for its pain-relieving properties. Ancient Romans and Greeks collected poppies to honor the dead, a tradition that continues today in this country — Americans wear and display the flower around Memorial Day to memorialize fallen U.S. soldiers.

Despite the poppy’s link to the concept of death, its message is less about mourning, and more about tribute and giving thanks. A vast variety of poppy shades exist, carrying subtle messages: Reds symbolize happiness, and purple poppies represent enchantment. White and cream stand for sympathy and condolence, and yellow conjures wishes of prosperity.

August’s zodiac signs are strong and sure

Leos (July 23–Aug. 22) are July’s natural-born performers and public speakers, and powerful ones at that. Like the sign’s symbol, the lion, a Leo can capture the attention of all around them with sounds that reach almost any volume. They won’t stop their act until everyone notices, but boy do they love the applause — a Leo lives to be showered with praise and admiration. If a Leo’s whole stage is taken, however, things could get loud, and should a Leo’s inner circle be disrespected, the lion’s full roar is on the way. They sure sound intimidating, but however wealthy or powerful, a Leo’s naturally bright smile and warm personality make them feel approachable to people of all ages and levels of society. Barack Obama, Kylie Jenner, Mick Jagger, and Martha Stewart are just a few well-known Leos.

August also births Virgos (Aug. 23–Sept. 22), a practical gang of problem solvers with a thing for modesty and independence — quite a refreshing attitude to encounter in a world of pride and glitz. The typical Virgo lives by logic and practicality, making life choices that leave little to chance. Being meticulous certainly isn’t a bad thing, though Virgos must remember that keeping unreachable ideals can lead to burnout, and applying personal sky-high standards to friends and partners can lead to unfair judgment. Thankfully, the inherently gentle and supportive Virgo nature tends to outshine its critical tendencies. A Virgo’s desire to share and build can make them wonderful teachers, musicians, and doctors. Famous Virgos include Beyoncé, Keanu Reeves, Amy Poehler, Michael Jackson, and Salma Hayek.

Why July Is the Best Month for Birthdays

Some call July the “real” summer month, and they may have a point.

June serves as summer’s warmup: School is still in session in a lot of places, and full-time tank-top-and-flip-flops weather hasn’t yet arrived. August is summer’s wind-down, and not 100% carefree: The new school year approaches (or arrives fully in many Southern and Southwestern states), fall sports are gearing up, and late-season, triple-digit heat waves make air-conditioned living rooms a top vacation destination.

July is the sweet spot, an oasis on the calendar when days (or weeks!) at the pool, lake, or ocean are the norm and summer entertaining is in full swing.

It’s also a great birthday month, with no major holidays to overshadow your party — save for our nation’s birthday on the 4^th. And with all its fireworks displays and cookouts, Independence Day could be viewed as the perfect day with which to partner for a birthday. July is also the people’s choice, with its plethora of party options making it the favorite month to have a birthday.

As if all this wasn’t enough, babies with July birthdays get some special gifts that can’t be purchased and wrapped.

July is full of healthy, sunny babies

July babies, science has found, are less likely to develop recurring health issues, potentially due to July mothers being exposed to plenty of seasonal sun during the months leading up to giving birth (as well as the babies themselves catching plenty of summer rays during their youngest, most formative months). This wellness boost is attributed to the high levels of vitamin D — a chemical proven to aid in general health — produced by the body when exposed to the sun. These positive growth patterns are known to last well past early childhood: Babies with July birthdays have been found to grow taller than those born in the fall or winter.

a photo of july birthdays with a pregnant woman sunning herself on the beach

a photo of july birthdays with a baby dressed for the beach

July babies are extra chill and creative

Research demonstrates that those with July birthdays often possess especially positive life attitudes and, consequently, face a lower risk of depression as adults. This could be due, studies indicate, to July babies having an above-average ability to balance emotions and not give in to mindless aggression. As a result, they are more likely to maintain composure when having a favorite toy taken away or losing a game. The effects of being able to stabilize emotions often go beyond chill moods and extend into creative confidence: July babies are more likely to become artists, a census report finds, than those born in nearly any other month.

July flowers promise endless positivity

July’s first birth flower, the larkspur, is a vivid annual that blooms abundantly in the Northern Hemisphere and high-elevation areas of the African tropics. While thriving outdoors from spring through summer’s conclusion, larkspurs grow from several inches to several feet, and in shades that have come to represent certain qualities: A blue bloom embodies grace and dignity, purple symbolizes a first love, white stands for joy and rebirth, and pink signifies classic romance.

a photo of july birthdays with larkspur growing in the wild

Larkspurs of all colors have long been considered sources of positive energy. In the ancient Middle East, the flower was used to repel scorpions, and in 17^th century Transylvania, dried larkspurs were kept in farm stables, believed to prevent witches from casting spells on healthy animals. Modern-day, natural healing practitioners still employ larkspur to treat insect stings and external wounds.

The month’s second birth flower is the water lily, similar in form and hue to the legendary lotus, both of which grow below, and bloom through, the surface of fresh water. For thousands of years, the water lily has represented life’s endless cycles of growth and unity; to ancient Egyptians, the flower embodied the concept of human birth, death, and rebirth, while ancient Greeks dedicated water lilies to Hera, goddess of family and marriage.

All water lilies have broad flat leaves and petals that give the flower a star-like shape. They come in a variety of shades, each of which carries a different meaning:

Pink = Knowledge and wisdom
Purple = Royalty and regality
White = The peace of nature

The water lily is not only gorgeous but practical, discouraging algae growth in home water gardens while providing shade for tadpoles and tiny fish.

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July’s astrological signs are welcoming and bright

Cancers (June 21–July 22) are born communicators, swift thinkers with unique means of expression, and quirky senses of humor. A Cancer’s mind is somehow both present and dreamy — practical yet emotional — a tenuous balance that if not maintained during life’s ups-and-downs can lead to plenty of second guessing and inaction. Such is the nature of the crab: When threats arrive, it draws into its shell and stays still. All the same, crabs’ shells never hold them; Cancers love social interaction, hold a remarkable ability to read a room, and can make even strangers feel like loved ones, thanks to their capacity for great empathy and compassion. Famous Cancers include Tom Cruise, Margot Robbie, Post Malone, Kevin Bacon, and Princess Diana.

Those born at July’s tail end are Leos (July 23–Aug 22), natural leaders with a born charisma and confidence that perfectly embody their sign’s symbol, the lion. Leos’ normal state of being is warm and joyful, and they certainly do enjoy displaying this radiant nature to all they encounter. If the social spotlight drifts from a Leo, however, he will not hesitate to let out a growl, and should a Leo feel his social circle is being threatened, you will definitely hear roars.

Speaking of which, do Leos ever enjoy making sounds! They live to lead, speak, perform, and receive bountiful praise for the fruits of their expression. Madonna, Ben Affleck, Kylie Jenner, Joe Jonas, and Jennifer Lopez are all Leos.

Why June Is the Best Month for Birthdays

From exploring why we celebrate turning one year older to discovering birthday traditions around the world, the series “All About Birthdays” brings you fun facts about the day we all celebrate. In this article, we explore why June birthdays are the best.

June is summer’s sweet spot. Just after Memorial Day, we get four weeks of ideal weather to enjoy before the hot and humid dog days arrive. And what a month in which to be born!

An ad showing gift ideas for October birthdays.

Birthday party organizers can choose from a near endless variety of recreational options for entertainment: cookouts with yard games, visits to the beach, fishing, boating, hiking. For sporting types, basketball and tennis in the park or a picturesque round of golf all can serve as appetizers for watching this month’s professional basketball championship and one of the major tournaments in both golf and tennis. June is also prime music festival season, a chance to catch three or four favorite acts. Best of all, June contains the most daylight of any month; 2022’s summer solstice — the year’s longest day — falls on June 21. Plan big, because with school out for summer partygoers’ schedules should be wide open!

June brings certain fun for all, but for those born this month, it provides a few unique personal qualities.

June babies aim tall and go big

June, it seems, can provide size, smarts, and smiles — not a bad set of birthday gifts! U.K. studies have found June babies to be some of the largest at birth, as well as the tallest come adulthood. But even those who get the short end of the stick may be headed onward and upward: June has been found to be the most common birth month among Nobel Prize winners, and those born during the spring and summer have been shown to possess long-lasting optimism and a positive personal outlook.

June birthdays stay on the bright side

Seasonal affective disorder, a pattern of depression and fatigue occurring during the year’s darker, colder months, can be a tough condition to deal with. June-born individuals, however, have been found to be less likely to suffer from the disorder, which scientists speculate may be related to the pleasant weather and sunshine experienced during a June child’s most formative years. And while June babies have also been found to be more likely to experience mood swings than those born in the fall or winter, their naturally positive and level-headed natures help to even out their emotions quickly and effectively.

June feels sweet as roses and honey

June’s primary birth flower is perhaps nature’s most recognizable bloom, and definitely one of its most fragrant: the rose. Upon hearing the name, most people picture the simple red rose, though nearly 150 species of the flower exist — among them, long stem, shrub types, and others that climb like vines. They’ve been around for quite a while, too: The oldest rose first bloomed a whopping 35 million years ago!

a photo of june birthdays with different color roses

Roses come in a variety of colors, each with its own meaning: A pink rose expresses pure happiness, white represents virtue and clarity, red says “I love you,” and yellow expresses an entirely different form of desire: jealousy. Gifting roses in full bouquets communicates utmost gratitude, while gifting just one serves as an exclamation point: A single red rose expresses absolute and eternal commitment, while one yellow says “I seriously envy your partner!”

The honeysuckle, a flavorful favorite of hummingbirds and humans alike, is also a June birth flower. Like roses, they come in both shrub (the best bird magnets) and vine forms (which can grow up to 30 feet tall), and are found in 200 varieties across the globe. All honeysuckles symbolize serenity, and, given their succulent nectar, sweetness — though, specifically, pink, yellow, and red represent friendship, flirtation, and passion, respectively. Honeysuckles also stand for maternal energy, as the butterflies and bees they attract carry plenty of pollen, a substance responsible for reproducing Mother Earth’s flowering plant life. Native to east Asia, the honeysuckle is a latecomer to North America, where its cultivation began in Long Island, New York, during the early 1800s.

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June’s signs are tireless and caring

With lives never dull, and at times almost too hectic to imagine, Geminis (May 21 to June 21) are perpetually curious people, driven to explore the realms of society, intellect, and finance. Geminis make thrilling friends, and potentially epic business partners, though some possess such thin attention spans that something as small as a distracting text thread could end their work day. As social chameleons, Geminis surround themselves with all sorts of life options — from arranging two sets of dinner plans for one night (before canceling one at the last minute) to maintaining multiple circles of friends (each intentionally kept separate). Well-known Geminis include Kanye West (June 8), Marilyn Monroe (June 1), and Chris Pratt (June 21).

Cancers (June 22 to July 22) are an intuitive and imaginative group, remarkably gifted in realms of communication. Always in tune with the vibe of the room, Cancers are adept at picking up subtleties of speech and body language that fly right past other signs. Possessing loads of empathy, Cancers are also perpetually easy to talk to — even for complete strangers — and make perfect confidantes. Definitely an emotional sign, social discord or personal stress can send a Cancer right back inside their shell. When around trusted friends, however, even a chronically uptight Cancer unwinds quickly. Tom Hanks (July 9), Princess Diana (July 1), Post Malone (July 4), Margot Robbie (July 2), and Will Ferrell (July 16) are all born under Cancer.

Why May Is the Best Month for Birthdays

As April showers give way to May flowers, spring is in full swing. The garden is growing, pools are opening, and backyard grills are coming to life, allowing for the type of together time that only warm months can offer. May’s special occasions — a series of party classics — are back: Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican culture with margaritas galore, the Kentucky Derby delivers another round of southern indulgence, and National Wine Day brings with it, well, you know. This month also has heartfelt holidays, such as Mother’s Day, a celebration of the lovely ladies to whom we owe our lives, and Memorial Day, a salute to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.

With winter far behind in our rearview, the May experience is a present to all — though a May birthday just happens to be the gift that keeps on giving.

Hearty May bodies resist disease

May infants are born, on average, weighing nearly 7 ounces more than those born in other seasons. This ample size seems to correspond with a strong immune system: A review of 1.75 million patient records by Columbia University found that spring babies displayed an overall lower risk of general disease.

A May baby’s low disease risk does not seem to translate to athletic stardom, though, at least in the United Kingdom, where very few national sport captains have had May birthdays — save for a famous son of May 2, footballer David Beckham!

May babies feel fortunate for career options

A survey of 30,000 Europeans regarding their sense of personal luck found those born in May feel more fortunate than fall or winter babies. Scientists speculate this could be related to the fact that mothers pregnant in springtime experience higher levels of sunshine, boosting levels of dopamine (the “pleasure chemical”) in a fetus’ developing brain, which in turn raises positivity levels for years to come.

A May baby’s optimism also seems to open more career paths: U.K. studies have found that certain birth months yield workers of specific occupations — January has the most physicians, February produces the most artists, etc. — and that those born in May (and the preceding month, April) have the widest variety of occupations.

May flowers deliver happiness and protection

The lily of the valley, also known as the May lily, is actually not a lily at all but a member of the asparagus family. Far from a spiky vegetable, this one’s a beauty — a lithe stem bearing small, downturned, bell-shaped blooms and a light honeyed scent.

May lilies have come to represent innocence and modesty, and within floriography, the practice of assigning coded meanings to plants, the “return of happiness.” First cultivated in 15^th-century Europe, the May lily is a very popular bridal flower, chosen even by Catherine Middleton and Princess Grace of Monaco for their royal weddings. Few medicinal uses for the flower have been proven, though water mixed with its petals was said to be used throughout 18^th-century Europe for gout relief.

May’s second birth flower is the hawthorn (aka the May tree), a dense plant more likely to be used as a decoration hedge in landscaping than featured in a bouquet. A native of the temperate Northern Hemisphere, the hawthorn’s clustered white and pink blooms feature thin extensions with tiny red, orange, or black fruited tips. Such alluring visuals embody the hawthorn’s traditional meanings of fertility and earthen beauty, while its firm central twigs and thorns represent protection. Traditional medicinal uses for the flower include blood pressure regulation, menopause relief, sleep aid, and the relief of rashes and acne breakouts.

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The May zodiac is tough and in the know

Those born under the Taurus sign (April 20 to May 20) are widely respected for their righteous ambitions, dependable natures, and pure hearts. Classic Taureans possess the type of sensual and elegant qualities that most can only wish for; yet, unlike many of life’s “beautiful people,” they are quite down to earth. Don’t mistake that kindness for weakness, though: A Taurus isn’t one to budge when pushed, and when they become aggravated, they may display outright hard-headedness, even in matters of little consequence. However, when such persistence is applied to long-term goals, Taurean determination always yields positive results. Beckham, Adele, George Clooney, Tina Fey, and Megan Fox all have Taurus as their astrological sign.

The ever-curious Gemini (May 21 to June 21) is rarely found bored, or labeled boring. Living in a rapid manner both physically and mentally, Geminis can be exciting friends, though hard types to work with; if they lose concentration during a meeting, the day might be over. High-energy Gemini nature thrives on change and choices, leading many born under the sign to keep options around: alternate recreation, income sources, and, for a small few, even lovers. Be it national news or just local rumors, a Gemini must stay informed, and can often be found glued to social media in search of life’s inside scoops. Famous Geminis include Marilyn Monroe, Kanye West, Angelina Jolie, and Prince.

Why April Is the Best Month for Birthdays

As the first full month of spring, April may be the most enjoyable warm-weather time of year, a 30-day-long pick-me-up that reintroduces the glow of nature we’ve all so dearly missed over the winter.

The month’s jovial feeling arrives immediately in the form of April Fools’ Day, which is followed by Easter and Earth Day, celebrations of a revival of both the spirit and the soil. April is also arguably the most exciting sports month of the year: From the culmination of college basketball tournaments to baseball opening day to a certain major golf tournament held in Augusta, Georgia, there’s a lot for sports fans to get excited about.

The return of a lush, livable outdoors and a sporting paradise are gifts to all, but it turns out those born in April actually have a few extra reasons to celebrate this month.

Those born in April work far and wide

Studies show that those born in specific months tend toward certain career paths — for instance, January produces more doctors and economists than any other month, and February more artists and traffic cops — but it turns out individuals born in April display an especially diverse range of career trajectories.

Some think this may have to do with the fact that April-born students are rarely ever the youngest or oldest in their class, both of which are factors thought to distinctly affect a child’s schooling experience and future aims.

The medical journal Sleep also found that April babies are much more likely to be night owls than those born in other seasons, a personality trait that may lead them to pursue non-office jobs, self-employment, and independent work in greater numbers.

April’s birth flowers are bright as spring

April’s first birth flower is the daisy, a truly classic bloom whose modern name is a variation of its Old English moniker, the “day’s eye.” True to its British title, some species of daisies gradually turn their faces throughout the day, “watching” the sun across the sky for maximum light, before closing their petals at night.

Though a simple and quite common flower, daisies can provide their admirers with stunning sights. At certain points in their lifespan, the tiny symmetrical “disc flowers” that radiate from the bloom’s head can be seen to form amazing geometric patterns. Nearly a half-dozen varieties of daisies exist, ranging from light whites to pinks, each of which is said to represent purity, new beginnings, and joy — all concepts synonymous with spring.

Available in pristine white, and a spectrum of light red, pinks, and purples, April’s second birth flower, the sweet pea, is said to represent blissful living, innocence, and pure-hearted desire. Originating in the Mediterranean, the sweet pea was brought to England in the 1600s via traveling monks. There, it flourished quietly until 19th-century Victorian royalty took notice and spread the bloom across the continents.

A sweet pea’s succulent citrus and honey fragrance packs a double treat; it’s not only a favorite of humans but also a handy natural repellent of pests, such as flies and winged beetles. Its admirers must remain mindful of the flower’s seed pods, however, the contents of which are poisonous to both humans and animals if consumed.

April babies can breathe easy

A Columbia medical study found that, compared to individuals born throughout the rest of the year, April babies face significantly less risk of reproductive complications and neurological issues (including ADHD, most commonly diagnosed in those born in late fall and winter). Chronic breathing problems, such as asthma, are also few and far between among April babies; this is thought to be due to the fact that dust mites are extremely common in early spring, and increased exposure to mites so early in a baby’s first year may produce immunity that lowers the risk of future allergies.

April’s astrological signs are strong willed and steady

Those born under Aries (March 21 to April 20) are often bold progress seekers endowed with a get-go that perfectly embodies their sign’s symbol, the ram. The dawn of Aries accompanies the vernal equinox, an event that marks the point on the calendar when days start to have more sunlight than darkness, endowing nature with unstoppable springtime energy.

Somehow, most Aries possess a similar larger-than-life vigor year-round within the realms of their career and personal planning. Such dedication to one’s plans is an invaluable life trait. However, when delays beyond their control cause a frustrated Aries to have to break their momentum, stand back — there’s a reason rams are known for butting heads! Some of Aries’ most famous members include Leonardo da Vinci, Kristen Stewart, Thomas Jefferson, Elton John, and Lady Gaga.

Those born under Taurus (April 20 to May 20) are generally an amiable, loving, and noticeably attractive bunch, respected for their well-formed beliefs and elegant manner. However, the sign of Taurus, the bull, is quite telling of the personality few see: highly protective of their inner circle, mentally alert, and tenacious when it comes to personal opinions.

Though most Tauruses are markedly polite on the day-to-day, when incited to charge, all matadors beware: A bull never submits when taunted. However, drama is nothing a Taurus seeks, as one of their deepest desires in life is simple stability. Dwayne Johnson, Adele, David Beckham, Queen Elizabeth II, and Amber Heard are just a few well-known Tauruses.

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Why September Birthdays Are the Best

Birthdays are the holidays we own, a naturally special 24 hours for celebration with friends and family that’s sure to warm the heart no matter the season. September babies, however, have a few exclusive birthday advantages that mere other-monthers don’t get to enjoy. With the return of picture-perfect weather, the availability of rare seasonal culinary delights, and some special gift options, September is a great month to be celebrating your birthday.

September birthdays take the cakes

Photo of a birthday cake that shows fall colors popular for people celebrating September birthdays

Seasonal harvests in September provide plenty of food and sweet options. September babies, you have your choice of a plain old birthday cake with white icing…or a fresh pumpkin cheesecake, a pecan pie, plus apple crisp and healthy alternatives like gluten-free pumpkin cake, cinnamon-baked pears, and apple chips. If you live near a rural area, you know that September farmer’s markets and roadside stands offer amazing dessert options you won’t find anywhere else. Take a drive and see what you can find, and maybe explore nature along the way — the changing leaves and mild days make for gorgeous birthday hikes.

There are plenty of party partners

September babies have a lot of company! According to Reader’s Digest, nine out of 10 of the most common American birthdays occur in September. Turns out the 9^th and the 19^th are the most birthday-filled days of the year, with the nine days in between containing the other seven most common birthdays. That means there’s a good chance you or your friends know other people born in September — and you could team up for a double or even triple birthday party.

September birthday babies get the best of two seasons

In much of North America, September is the only month when you can really enjoy the best of summer and fall — comfortably warm days and perfectly cool nights, with crisp air rather than high humidity. September is a perfect time to hold your birthday party outdoors to make the most of great grilling weather in the afternoon and ideal conditions for sitting around a fire after sunset. If a pool or hot tub is available, a night swim or relaxing soak can be the perfect way to wrap up your party. September’s lower temperatures can also make it easier to drift off to sleep after a high-energy get-together.

Photo of men enjoying beer while celebrating their September birthdays.

National Beer Lover’s Day

Sept. 7 marks National Beer Lover’s Day, the vaunted holiday celebrated with specialty brews, beer-related food features, and fantastic deals in bars and restaurants across the country. Even if that’s not your birthday, September is typically the month when craft breweries debut their most limited-edition seasonal beers, ciders, and mead varieties. Pumpkin porters, spiced ales, maple brown ales, and crisp dry ciders are fall favorites consistently released on or around National Beer Lover’s Day.

September brings football season

This month marks the return of football — by far our nation’s most popular sport, according to ratings — and birthday/big-game combo parties always make for great weekend celebrations. Baseball playoffs typically start in late September too. There’s also a relaxing bonus — watching a game makes the party less stressful for the host, as people typically entertain themselves.

It’s digital drop-off time

Many tech companies take advantage of back-to-school time by releasing new smartphones and laptops. That also drives down the price of older-model phones and computers, so keep an eye out for bargains in September — no matter the person’s budget, you’ve got plenty of choices to suggest as a gift.

September blooms provide energy

Photo of Asters, September birthday flower

The aster is a September birthday flower that represents a love so radiant it can blind snakes, keeping them out of gardens where the flower is planted, according to myth. Ancient Greeks burned aster leaves for spiritual protection, believing the scent could ward off evil phantoms, and Victorian culture considered the aster’s thin, delicate petals to symbolize subtle allure and graceful attraction. Another September birth flower is the morning glory, a bloom that begins to open at dawn and closes by afternoon. It’s short but sure life cycle is thought to represent the fleeting nature of young love. The flower is also said to provide its recipient with the strength to conquer adversity.

Pleasant and positive zodiac signs

Those born between Aug. 23 and Sept. 22 are Virgos, loyal and practical souls who revel in the presence of animals and nature. Virgos are known to constantly pursue personal health, preferring nourishing cuisine over quick-fix sweets and junk food, a good book rather than a night of TV. Libras, a highly cooperative and group-minded bunch, are born from Sept. 23 to Oct. 22. Their steady pursuit of social balance and equality mirrors their attraction to like-minded life partners, intellectual individuals who enjoy fine art and music.