You can't believe that your parents have been married for 30 years, and there is no better gift than throwing them an anniversary party to celebrate. Most couples who have been married for so long celebrate their big anniversaries on the 25th and 50th years, known respectively as the silver and gold anniversaries. If your parent's 25th anniversary somehow slipped by without much fanfare, you should throw your folks a party for their 30th. Even if your family did celebrate your parents' silver anniversary, they might appreciate some sort of recognition for their 30 year commitment to each other and the family.
Talk to your siblings about throwing your parents a party. Your siblings should have the chance to plan the party together with you. By talking with them long before the actual date of the anniversary, you will avoid the risk of simultaneously and unknowingly planning two parties. You will also need to speak with them to give them a heads up if they are going to need to fly in from out of town. Your brothers and sisters could have some great ideas about what your parents might like. You can also discuss how much money you can spend altogether.
Ask your parents what kind of party they would like to have. You should check with them before you start planning anything for several reasons. They may have already made their own plans to take a trip or throw a dinner party with their friends. Approach them several weeks before the date and tell them that you and your brothers and sisters want to throw a party for their anniversary. Ask what their dream party would look like and respect their desires. You might be surprised by what you hear.
Throw your parents a fun backyard barbecue if they want a casual party with their families, friends, and all their loved ones. Backyard barbecues are always fun and you can invite a ton of people without breaking the bank. If your parents prefer to go ultra-casual, you can grill up some burgers and hot dogs and crack open some ice cold beers. If your parents want something casual but still luxurious, grill some steaks or seafood and mix some of their favorite cocktails.
If your parents are interested in something more formal, book a table for your parents and your siblings at your parents' favorite restaurant. You can surprise them by arranging a special menu just for the evening ahead of time. Speak with the manager of the restaurant and explain your event. If the restaurant normally has minimum requirements for parties, explain that your parents are long time loyal customers celebrating a very special milestone. The restaurant should be willing to work with you.
Throw your parents a wedding-like banquet if they are dreaming of celebrating their anniversary with a huge, formal party with dinner and dancing. You can find a reception hall; hire a caterer, band and photographer and even write some speeches in honor of your parents. To make their 30th anniversary even more special and romantic, ask them if they'd also like to renew their vows.