Birthdays may not always feel like a cause for celebration — the occasion can end up inspiring not only agonizingly off-key renditions of “Happy Birthday,” but also lengthy forays in front of the mirror in search of new wrinkles and lamentations over seeing another year pass without getting those student loans paid off. But remember people: any excuse to gorge on cake and ice cream is a good day in our book. And tonight, you can attend one birthday bash that’s sure to get you in a festive mood, no silly party hats required. Shake the Tree (67 Salem Street, Boston, 617.742.0484), the North End boutique that’s chock full of beguiling baubles and doodads, pretty party dresses, and oh-you-shouldn’t-have-but-I’m-so-glad-you-did gifts for anyone and everyone in your address book, is turning the big 15. So head down to Salem Street between 6 and 8 p.m. to sip on some bubbly, snack on some cupcakes, and take advantage of the deep-rooted discounts that the Tree is offering up in celebration of the day it opened its doors. The store’s summer sale (during which you can snag its stylish goodies for 30–40% off) starts today, but pop in during party hours to grab an extra 15% off the already discounted delights. If that doesn’t sound like the best party favor you’ve ever received, we don’t know what is — and no, those princess tiaras from Susie’s sixth b-day at RollerWorld don’t count.
