Celebrate a Milestone Birthday with These Turning 50 Quotes and Wishes
Someone special in your life is turning the big “5-0,” and it’s time to make them feel extra special with a memorable turning 50 quote. Maybe they’d appreciate something heartfelt, or perhaps they enjoy joking about their age — whatever the sentiment, there’s a message out there for them.
Whether you’re looking for a message for the inside of a 50th birthday card or something to say to them in person at their big birthday celebration, we’ve got the perfect greeting for you.
25 Turning 50 Quotes and Message Ideas
Ready to wish a loved one a very happy 50th birthday? These turning 50 quotes, messages, and words of inspiration are everything you need to bring joy to their special day.
Short and Sweet 50th Birthday Wishes
Writing to a friend or family member for their birthday doesn’t mean you have to send paragraphs of text — sometimes the shortest messages are the most memorable. Or maybe you just don’t have a lot of space free on a gift tag or shared card. Whatever the reason, here are some quick and simple turning 50 quotes and well wishes.
1. Happy 50th birthday to my favorite person ever!
2. Congrats on turning 50, [Name]!
3. Have a special day, [Name]. Happy birthday!
4. Sending you well wishes for your big birthday!
5. Have the best 50th birthday ever, [Name]!
6. Wishing you well on your 50th birthday.
7. Have a fabulous 50th birthday celebration, [Name]!
Heartfelt Turning 50 Quotes and Wishes
For times when you want something a little more detailed, try a longer 50th birthday quote or a message from the heart. These messages are ideal for when you want to write something thoughtful to your best friend, partner, or someone you’re close to.
8. Sending you lots of love as you celebrate this milestone birthday, [Name]!
9. Have the most wonderful birthday, [Name]! I’m so glad to be by your side as you reach that half-century mark.
10. I can’t believe you’re turning 50! You’re the most fabulous 50-year-old I know.
11. As you enter your 50th year I’m reminded of all the good times we’ve had together, and am so excited for what’s still to come. Happy birthday, [Name]!
12. It’s time to celebrate a special milestone! Wishing you the happiest of birthdays.
13. This special occasion calls for more than just a simple “happy birthday.” Congrats on turning 50, you’re going to have the best year ever!
14. There’s nobody who does turning 50 like you do, [Name]. I can’t wait to see what this year will bring you.
Funny Turning 50 Quotes and Messages
If you’ve got a joke-maker in your life and you want to celebrate their milestone birthday with plenty of laughs, then these funny 50th birthday quotes are perfect. Let your sense of humor shine and make them feel good on their special day with the help of a funny birthday card and one of these greetings.
15. I can’t believe you’re turning a half-century old, [Name]. Time to start calling you old man!
16. Some people age like fine wine, but I’m not sure that applies in this case.
17. Congrats on rapidly approaching old age, [Name]!
18. You’ve got 50 years of experience at life by now, but it still feels like you’re a total beginner. Happy birthday!
19. Ready for that midlife crisis, [Name]? Wishing you a very happy birthday!
20. I guess now that you’re 50 you could be considered to be in the youth of old age.
21. Congratulations on reaching 50! Ready for the next half-century of challenges?
Turning 50 Quotes from Famous Figures
There are plenty of people who’ve lived full lives packed with experiences we could only dream of. It makes sense that we’d look to these celebrities and influential figures for their words of wisdom on reaching this milestone age. Explore some of the best turning 50 quotes from famous figures.
22. “When your friends begin to flatter you on how young you look, it’s a sure sign you’re getting old.” — Mark Twain
23. “By the time we hit 50, we have learned our hardest lessons. We have found out that only a few things are really important. We have learned to take life seriously, but never ourselves.” — Marie Dressler
24. “Maybe it’s true that life begins at 50. But everything else starts to wear out, fall out, or spread out.” — Phyllis Diller
25. “At 50, everyone has the face he deserves.” — George Orwell
Pair Your 50th Birthday Message with a Digital Birthday Card
Your turning 50 quote or message deserves to be seen against a backdrop that’s just as thoughtful or hilarious as the happy 50th birthday wishes you’ve crafted. If you’re looking for the ideal 50th birthday card, you’re in luck.
At Greenvelope, we have a wonderful collection of birthday cards for you to choose from. And even better, they’re customizable — so you can alter the layout, fonts, and colors to match the recipient’s taste and preferences. You can even add a gift card, giving you an easy way to send a 50th birthday gift to your loved one, wherever they are in the U.S.
1. Minimal Sun Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
Make them smile with this card themed around taking another trip around the sun. This whimsical yet modern birthday card design is a good match for a lighthearted message about turning older.
2. It’s Your Birthday! Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
Is the birthday guest of honor hosting a big 50th birthday party? If so, this fun-filled birthday card is an ideal way to wish them well, with its colorful, joyful look and feel.
3. Getting Older Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
If the birthday person is all about staying youthful and embracing all the things they’ve always loved, then this contemporary birthday card is a great choice. It’s ideal for anyone who doesn’t subscribe to the idea that getting older means life gets boring.
4. Plaid Birthday Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
Looking for a design that feels more classic and stylish? This tradition-inspired plaid birthday card is a wonderful backdrop for a sweet birthday message that comes straight from the heart.
5. Polaroid Celebration Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
If you want to showcase your favorite photo of the birthday person, then this Polaroid-themed birthday card is one of our most-loved options. Include a short message on the front, and use the space on the reverse for a longer birthday greeting.
6. Birthday Cheers Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
Raise a toast on their 50th birthday with this cheers-to-you birthday card. Whether they’re a lover of beer, cider, or fine wine, this card is the perfect companion for a lighthearted or humorous birthday message.
7. Birthday Doodles Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope
For a more whimsical design, try this illustrated birthday card. We adore the sweet doodles of birthday cakes and gifts, and it’s a great card design no matter the style of birthday greeting you choose to share.
Capture the Magic of Turning 50 with These Quotes
There are so many ways you can wish someone a happy birthday, and this milestone event feels like the perfect time to put something special together. Use this guide to help you find the best turning 50 quote or message for your friend, coworker, or family member.
When you’re done thinking of message ideas and need the ideal card, choose one of our birthday cards. With customizable designs and plenty of room for even the longest of messages, they’re the best way to send your birthday wishes to your loved one.