That's on you. You need to start dropping hints about two weeks in advance. If you just quietly let the day sneak up on him, you just set a trap for him and screwed yourself out of the chance to get some really nice gifts.

Yep, drop hints. Been married 11 years and I even have my own birthday sneak up on me, let alone my husband even trying to remember over me. Some people have wonderful memory, some don't. At least not for things that may not mean anything to your BF. If it means something to you, make sure you let them know so maybe they'll put more effort into remembering for next year! Also have to say, this year has been so mixed up and busy, I swear it was just July yesterday...