Kasvalaran Birthdays

As a race so built upon appearances and social graces, the platinum sidhe are unique in that their celebration of birthdays also hinges upon these matters. Such occasions are markedly elegant affairs, depending of course upon the personal wealth that each individual commands and has at their disposal. Snubbing the invitation to such a gathering without good cause is seen as a deep social slight against the celebrant, and as such invitations are not handed out lightly. This means that, save for the most well-networked of the Flawless caste, birthdays tend to be small, intimate affairs.
These occasions are, in particular, seen as a celebration -- and demonstration -- of what the individual has achieved in the last year. The most lavish of parties will include catering, demonstrations of wealth, musical accompaniment, decorations, and even some small games that can be played in polite company. They may be held either indoors or outside, weather permitting, and are seen as a judgment of the individual's home as much as it is the individual themselves. Guests are expected to bring meaningful and appropriate gifts. But the true ritual of each Kasvalaran birthday is the presentation of personal achievements.
For some, they may formally introduce a new spouse they spent the last year courting, or present a babe that was recently born. Others will perform a musical piece on an instrument they have learned or mastered, or showcase their creations as an artist or craftsman. In some cases, it will serve as an announcement of new political ties, the founding of a business, or even the announcement of a degree they have earned. Regardless, this day is generally one that is quite stressful for most celebrants, as they are inviting the judgment of their peers on whether their last year has been "well spent".
Celebrations for children are generally less strict, though they quickly grow more so as the individual ages. In comparison to the other three castes, Dross platinum sidhe often hold birthday parties somewhat in defiance of this tradition, as they more closely resemble the casual, joyful celebrations of cultures like the Kadishiran copper sidhe.