You say it's your birthday ... that means time for celebrations, treats and gifts. But here's an extra happy birthday thought: You don't have to pay for it all, nor do your friends or family. If you know where to look (and which rewards clubs to sign up for), Atlanta eateries and businesses will help you celebrate from sunrise to blowing out the candles in the evening — all for free.
Follow this itinerary of 21 Atlanta freebies for your happiest birthday yet. There's so much fun to pack in, you'll forget all about being another year older.
To start your day: C'mon sleepyhead. You want to make the most of every minute of your birthday, so get right to your first freebies. Pancake lovers can head to International House of Pancakes for a free breakfast when you've signed up for Pancake Revolution. (You can make this an anytime meal, too, since it is your choice because it's your birthday, after all).
Or you might have another sweet birthday beginning in mind: doughnuts! Join the Friends of Krispy Kreme eClub, and a free doughnut will be waiting for you on your birthday morning. They'll even sponsor a coffee to go with it.
To make your day: Keep the celebration rolling with more perks. If you don't have other plans for the day, consider spending it with some marine life pals at the Georgia Aquarium (225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4151). All Georgia residents (that's you!) enjoy free aquarium entry on their birthdays. Just show an ID or birth certificate at any ticket window, and you're free to indulge in a day of aquarium presentations and galleries, from penguins to a dolphin show.
As you stroll along your "all about me" birthday path, pause for a pretzel at Auntie Anne's. It's free when you download the My Pretzel Perks app. Or treat yourself to a free small smoothie at Jamba Juice when you sign up for its Insider Rewards program.
And if you have to work on your birthday, or otherwise go about a standard routine, you can still look forward to Starbucks on your commute or coffee break. Free Starbucks, that is, for the birthday kid. If you've joined Starbucks' rewards club, you receive a free drink or treat on your birthday.
Gifts and gift certificates: Just today, it is better to receive than to give because the gifts are coming from businesses that have storefronts in Atlanta. So tap Designer Shoe Warehouse for a $5 gift certificate for your birthday. (Just sign up for DSW's rewards program ahead of time.)
Or indulge with Bare Minerals. Become a Friends and Benefits member and the store will take care of a customized gift on your birthday. You can also count on a gift each year from World Market, which sends a birthday surprise each year that you are a World Market Explorer Rewards member.
And don't forget presents that are edible, though you may want to save them for the days after your birthday when free desserts won't be on the agenda. Even if no one marks your day with one of Edible Arrangements' tasty bouquets, you can receive a free birthday gift if you're a rewards club member. Godiva, too, is good at remembering your birthday with a gift of sweets when you're a Godiva Rewards Club member.
Free birthday meal deals in Atlanta: Now you've come to the part of your birthday that requires a bit of planning. Which free birthday meals available in metro Atlanta will make the cut for your celebratory lunch and dinner? If it's a simple lunch you're after, Au Bon Pain offers free birthday lunch when you sign up for its e-club.
If you're thinking a little, ah, heartier, there's Steak 'n Shake. It offers a free double steakburger with cheese and a side of fries if you're already signed up for the eClub. Those 13 and older might enjoy a meal with friends at Benihana, and there won't be any scrambling to pay your bill because you'll be receiving a $30 birthday certificate during the month of your birthday when you register for the Chef's Table.
Another good option for a light supper or late lunch with friends: Ruby Tuesday, where you can indulge yourself with a choice of free burger or free Garden Bar entree when you join So Connected.
Ice cream and dessert: It wouldn't be a birthday without dessert, now would it? Two great options here are a simple free scoop at Ben and Jerry's (if you've signed up to be a Chunk Spelunker) and/or a free dessert at Cracker Barrel just by telling your server it's your big day.
Swankier Atlanta restaurant birthday freebies: You don't have to forgo birthday freebies just because you like a lavish meal each time you get a year older. Just a few of the upscale Atlanta area restaurants that offer birthday perks include Cowtippers Steaks and Spirits, where you can sign up for its card and have a $10 birthday reward automatically added to your card and available during your birthday month.
Or register as a Friend of Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar and dine there within 30 days of your birthday. At the end of the evening, Flemings will send you home with a boxed and bowed birthday dessert. Fogo de Chao adds an even more festive note:Iits complimentary dessert for the guest of honor is topped with a candle. Just tell the hostess or server you're celebrating on your way in.
Steak and Shake Free Double Steakburger with cheese and a side of fries if you're already signed up for the
