I don't advertise the birthdate, but neither am I upset if people want to celebrate it. I just downplay the importance by pointing out the arbitrariness of it. Last month I sarcastically told my friend, 'Congratulations on your 23rd successful rotation around the sun! Woohoo!'
I usually buy books for birthdays. They're inexpensive yet always make good gifts because of their remarkable shelf life.
Tynan, if you're opposed to unchosen obligations, do you tip at restaurants? I tip because I'm a baller, but my grandfather was against it for similar reasons as your position against birthdays. Just curious.