As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to gather your friends and celebrate the spirit of gratitude with a Friendsgiving. This alternative Thanksgiving celebration is about sharing delicious entrees and desserts, creating lasting memories, and embracing the warmth of friendship. Sometimes Friendsgiving is celebrated on the actual holiday, and sometimes it is an additional reason for a get-together during the Thanksgiving season. The date of your event does not matter, it’s simply about enjoying your friends.
What is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving is a warm and wonderful celebration where friends gather to enjoy a meal, usually in late November. It’s a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and focus on the friendships that enrich our lives.
Hosting the event encourages a sense of community and belonging, and allows you to create cherished memories with your chosen family. Whether you whip up traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, and green bean casserole, or explore new cuisines, it’s about celebrating a Thanksgiving holiday no matter what day the event takes place. The Friendsgiving holiday is a chance to relax with your group of friends, laugh, and enjoy the meal and each other’s company, as well as a delicious Friendsgiving spread making it an event everyone looks forward to each year.
Hosting a Successful Friendsgiving to Remember
Friendsgiving has become a tradition for many to celebrate Thanksgiving Day with friends who live far away from family on the fourth Thursday of November instead of traveling home to be with family. Sometimes work schedules or distance make it difficult to spend Thanksgiving with family. Sometimes, Friendsgiving may come about because we are closer to the friends we choose to be family than those who are related to us by blood. When you spend the November American holiday with friends, you are sure to enjoy the day and make memories for a lifetime.
A Potluck with a Twist
No one wants to do all the work and what better way to delegate than by having a potluck-style Friendsgiving? When you ask everyone to bring a dish or bottle of wine to share, everyone is vested in the event.
Potluck Friendsgiving food ideas can be based around a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings from turkey and sweet potatoes to pumpkin pie. Or, you can encourage your friends to bring their favorite dish, but add a fun twist. Each dish should represent a different culture or family tradition. (Be sure to consider your friends’ dietary restrictions when planning the menu.) Hosting a potluck with a twist broadens the culinary experience and sparks conversations about heritage and the stories behind each dish. Avoid duplicate dishes with a sign-up or create a mini “menu” for the night that highlights the origin of each recipe.
Your get-together can even have a theme that can transform your gathering into an exciting culinary adventure. By focusing on a particular cuisine—such as Italian, Mexican, or Indian—you can create a cohesive menu that introduces your guests to new flavors and experiences. This thematic approach encourages exploration and conversation around the diverse culinary traditions. You might take the event a step further learning about the culture and country of your culinary theme to add decorations accordingly.
The importance of theming the food lies in the way it fosters a sense of unity and excitement among your guests. When everyone knows the theme, they can get involved in the planning and preparation, contributing dishes that reflect their interpretations of the cuisine. This collaborative effort creates a deeper connection as friends share their favorite recipes, stories, and experiences related to the theme. Whether someone brings homemade enchiladas or a classic tiramisu, each dish becomes a point of interest and pride, adding to the overall festive spirit.
Table Settings Add to Culinary Theme
You can even set the table according to your food choices. By decorating the space to reflect the chosen cuisine, you create an immersive experience that transports guests to another culture. Attention to detail elevates a simple meal to a delightful event that engages all the senses. From the aromas wafting from the kitchen to the vibrant colors on the table, the theme enriches the environment and creates a festive ambiance.
Transform your space with simple yet effective decorations that reflect the season. Think autumn leaves, mini pumpkins, and candles to create a warm ambiance. You can even adorn each table with a different theme or color palette to add variety and visual interest. Special table settings are a great way to take elevate your event into an experience everyone will remember.
Plan for Leftovers by Bringing a Casserole to Share
Why not plan for leftovers by having a Casserole Exchange? Like a cookie exchange, where everyone brings cookies but goes home with cookies they did not make. You take home a portion of each dish so you have holiday leftovers for the week. Your friends will see you are thinking outside the box and going all out with unique ideas to make this year’s Friendsgiving memorable. So, why not host a Meal Prep Exchange? It might be a little silly, but isn’t that how memories are made?
Make Friendsgiving Traditions Special
One way to add a fun spice to your Friendsgiving celebration is by encouraging everyone to dress according to a theme, too. You could have a “Thanksgiving Sweater” contest, where guests wear the most festive or creative fall-themed sweaters they can find. To take it up a notch, hand out awards for the most innovative, funniest, or even coziest sweater. This adds an interactive element to the gathering and helps break the ice, especially if guests don’t know each other well. You can even create a mini runway show where everyone shows off their outfits, turning the holiday into a festive fashion event.
Another theme option is a “Movie Character” Friendsgiving, where everyone comes dressed as their favorite character from a film. Whether it’s classic Thanksgiving-themed movies or any iconic character, the costume element will spark conversations and laughs.
The encouraged dress code does not have to be a competition. You can call it an Ugly Sweater Party, thankful tee Friendsgiving, or Friendsgiving in Cozy Flannels. You want your friends to see the event as a fun and comfortable party that embraces everyone’s differences.
Photo booths or DIY sets can make for great Instagram-worthy moments, helping your Friendsgiving feel more like an event to remember year after year. An instant camera lets everyone take a tangible photo as a memento of the event.
Gratitude Wall for Your Friendsgiving Party
A gratitude wall where guests can write down what they’re thankful for on sticky notes or cards encourages reflection and sharing. The thankful notes also serve as decorations. At some point during the evening, invite everyone to read a few aloud, fostering a warm and heartfelt atmosphere among friends.
- 7 Ways to be Thankful at Thanksgiving – Teaching Children To Be Thoughtful, Helpful, Grateful
- Embracing Gratitude: A Joyful Thanksgiving Break for Moms
An Easy List of DIY Thanksgiving Crafts Perfect for Decorating Friendsgiving Table
Create a crafting station for guests to create their own Thanksgiving-themed decorations or place settings. Whether it’s making personalized napkin rings, painting pumpkins, or crafting thank-you cards, this hands-on activity keeps the mood light and fun while adding a personal touch to your gathering.
Crafting stations are especially great if there are a lot of children or teens at the event. You will be surprised that adults will enjoy making children’s crafts, too. The Turkey Gnome is a fun activity for all ages. Everyone will love this Friendsgiving souvenir.
You might have a table filled with craft supplies to let your friends relax, talk, and make decorations for the event, too. You may earn a place as the all-time Friendsgiving host when your friends think back fondly on relaxing and crafting together.
Decor & Centerpiece Ideas:
- Cheap & Chic Thanksgiving Centerpiece
- 10 Thanksgiving Centerpiece Ideas and a Few Fun Family Thanksgiving Activities, Too
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- 31 Essential Household Goods You Need for a Comfy, Cozy Home this Fall
- Thanksgiving Traditions Upgraded: 6 Ways to Make Your Holiday Amazing
Signature Cocktails Add a Bit of Sparkle to the Friendsgiving Menu
Elevate your Friendsgiving with a signature cocktail (or mocktail) that fits the fall motif. Think spiced apple cider mimosas or cranberry fizz. Set up a DIY cocktail bar with ingredients and recipes so guests can mix their drinks at your dinner party. This interactive element is sure to be a hit!
Having a signature drink at your celebration adds a bit of flair to the traditional holiday experience. You might find inspiration from favorite dishes or memories associated with Thanksgiving. For instance, if you have fond memories of your grandma’s spiced apple pie, a spiced apple cider cocktail could be a wonderful homage. Experimenting with different combinations and garnishes can yield a drink that not only tastes great but also tells a story.
When creating your signature drink, it’s essential to consider your guests’ preferences. You might want to mix up a couple of options, so everyone has something to enjoy. A good approach is to develop one standout cocktail and pair it with a non-alcoholic version. If your signature drink is a spiced cranberry fizz — made with cranberry juice, sparkling water, and a hint of ginger — you can easily create a mocktail version by omitting the alcohol while keeping the same vibrant flavors. Garnish both versions with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary to maintain a festive presentation, ensuring everyone can raise a glass in celebration.
Signature drinks serve as conversation starters, inviting guests to share their thoughts on the flavors and perhaps even reminisce about the holiday memories associated with certain ingredients. A beautifully crafted drink can enhance the overall aesthetic of your table setting, adding a splash of color and excitement. It makes the occasion feel like a tailored event. Be sure to use cute cups or chic wine glasses to add a bit of pizazz when serving the meal, too.
A Custom Playlist: The Perfect Tradition for Your Thanksgiving Dinner
Create a playlist filled with your favorite songs to set the mood. You can mix classics with contemporary hits or even include tunes that remind you of past gatherings. Consider having a karaoke session later in the evening for some extra fun! Send out a group text to ask friends for their favorite songs to help you create a playlist with everyone’s favorite music.
Celebrate Friendsgiving with Photo Booth Fun
Set up a photo booth with props and a backdrop that fits your theme. Encourage guests to take a photo together as a keepsake from the night. You can use a Polaroid camera for instant prints or simply set up a designated area for guests to snap their pics on their phones.
Easy Friendsgiving Food Ideas Take the Party to New Heights
Hosting a Friendsgiving should be fun and stress-free, so keeping the menu simple and crowd-pleasing is key. For appetizers, consider starting with Deviled Eggs—a timeless favorite that’s easy to make in advance and can be dressed up with creative toppings like bacon or smoked paprika. Another quick and tasty option is a Cheese and Charcuterie Board. Not only does it offer a variety of flavors and textures, but it also looks impressive without much effort. Include a selection of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and crackers to give your guests something to snack on while catching up and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
For the main course, nothing says Thanksgiving like a classic Roast Turkey. But, if you’re looking to simplify things, you can opt for a pre-brined bird or even a turkey breast, which cuts down on cooking time while still delivering that iconic flavor. For those wanting a meat-free option, a hearty Butternut Squash with Quinoa is a fantastic alternative. Loaded with seasonal flavors like roasted squash, cranberries, and a mix of herbs, it’s a filling and flavorful dish that even meat-eaters will love.
Try a New Friendsgiving Recipe with a Cooking Challenge: Enjoy Good Food and a Bit of Competition
Spice things up with a friendly cooking challenge! Choose a common ingredient (like pumpkin or sweet potatoes) and have guests whip up their creations for a unique Friendsgiving menu. Taste-test everything and let the group vote for the winner, who can receive a prize. It’s a great way to spark creativity and laughter. A Friendsgiving tradition might even include a traveling trophy for the winner.
Once the dishes are ready, arrange a taste-testing session where everyone can sample each other’s creations. Set up a judging panel or simply let the group vote on their favorites by secret ballot. Consider awards in multiple categories like “Most Creative Dish,” “Best Presentation,” or “Spiciest Flavor.” This playful competition adds a layer of excitement to the gathering, and everyone leaves with new recipes and an appreciation for the diverse flavors that friends bring to the table.
No Such Thing As Too Much Dessert: Pecan Pie, Apple Pie, and More
Whether it’s a classic pecan pie, a fresh-baked apple pie, or something a little more creative, multiple pie options bring an extra layer of excitement to the gathering. Each guest can contribute their favorite recipe, creating a pie buffet that celebrates variety and indulgence. Because, when it comes to pie, the more, the merrier.
Perfect Pie Recipes for Your Friendsgiving:
- Best Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Recipe – Perfect for Fall
- 10 Thanksgiving Pies to Reinvent Your Holiday Table
- 12 Tools for the Perfect Pie
- The Best Fall Treats And Sweet Eats To Spice Up the Pumpkin Season
- Sweet Potato Pie
- Traditional Pumpkin Pie
- Must Try Apple Pie (Just Like Grandma’s)
- Pecan Pie You Want to Try
- Gooseberry Pie (Yes, it is a real thing!)
But why stop there? Consider adding non-traditional options like chocolate cream pie or a tart cherry pie for those who crave something different. With so many varieties on the table, everyone is bound to find their favorite, and it becomes a delicious way to celebrate the diversity of tastes and traditions within your friend group. After all, there’s no such thing as too much dessert!
Hosting a Friendsgiving Board Game or Movie Marathon
After the meal, keep the festivities going with a board game night or a cozy movie marathon. Choose games that accommodate larger groups, or select a few feel-good movies that everyone can enjoy together. It’s a wonderful way to relax and bond over shared laughter.
Board games and party games are fantastic ways to keep the energy lively and encourage interaction during your celebration. One popular choice is Codenames, a word-based game that pits two teams against each other as they try to guess their team’s “agents” based on clever clues from their spymaster. The game’s strategy, deduction, and teamwork mix make it perfect for a group setting, sparking laughter and friendly competition. It’s easy to learn so that everyone can join in, regardless of their gaming experience.
Another great option is Telestrations, a hilarious drawing and guessing game that often leads to uproarious moments. Each player starts with a word or phrase and then draws it, passing their sketch to the next person who must guess what it is. The guess is then drawn by the next player, and the process continues until it returns to the original person. It’s like the game of telephone but with drawing instead of whispering. The results are often far from the original word, resulting in laughter and lots of surprises.
For those who prefer a classic, Cards Against Humanity can add a cheeky twist to the fun. This game encourages players to complete fill-in-the-blank statements using often outrageous or humorous phrases from their hands. While it can get a bit irreverent, it’s all in good fun and can lead to some unforgettable moments and inside jokes. Just be sure to gauge your group’s comfort level with this kind of humor!
Movie Marathon
Hosting a movie marathon is a fantastic way to bring friends together for a cozy, laid-back gathering filled with entertainment. To make the event memorable, choose a theme that resonates with your group, whether it’s a nostalgic throwback to ’90s classics, a binge of superhero blockbusters, or a series of feel-good holiday films.
Set up a comfy viewing space with plenty of blankets, pillows, and cozy seating to encourage guests to relax and settle in for hours of movie magic. A well-stocked snack table is essential—think popcorn, candy, and easy-to-eat finger foods. You could even make treats inspired by the movies you’re watching.
Share Favorite Memories
Encourage guests to share their favorite memories of each other during dinner. This can be facilitated by passing around a “memory jar” where guests write down memories anonymously and take turns reading them. It’s a heartfelt way to reminisce and appreciate the bonds you share.
Thanksgiving Charade Ideas
For a lively end to the evening, organize a game of Thanksgiving charades. Prepare prompts related to the holiday, food, and fun traditions. This interactive classic game is sure to bring out lots of laughter and joy, making it a perfect capstone to your celebration.
Everything You Need to Know to Make Friendsgiving a Tradition
Make plans early. If you want to participate in a Friendsgiving Feast, you need to be an active participant. It’s no good to sit around and wait for an invitation. As soon as the weather turns or people start mentioning holiday plans, it’s time to find out who will be staying.
If you want to host, it makes planning a little easier because you already have a place to host the event. And if you’re a Type A control freak hostess, then you’re not going to be happy if you don’t do it yourself anyway.
Find a location. If you can’t fit another 10 people in the random nooks and crannies of your house, you will need to find a place. Community centers may be an option, if you live someplace warm you could eat outside, or you can do a block party and let people eat wherever.
What to Bring to a Friendsgiving
Turkey prep. Sometimes the host cooks the turkey, but this doesn’t have to be the case, and depending on your group’s size you might need more than one turkey. Someone in the group has to have a smoker or deep fryer, if not, time to make a new friend. If cost is a factor here, consider asking people to help pitch in for the turkeys.
Create a sign-up list. You can use a free program like Sign Up Genius to help make sure everyone covers all the important Thanksgiving treats. Don’t forget to plan for plates, napkins, silverware, cups, and drinks. If you have friends who just moved to town, or want to invite some single service members, offer them the easier things like paper products and drinks.
Opting to host Friendsgiving gatherings each year is a wonderful way to embrace gratitude, friendship, and the joy of togetherness. Craft an unforgettable celebration that reflects your love and appreciation for your friends.
Find the perfect Thanksgiving recipes for the big day. Gather your crew, and prepare some delicious food with simple recipes that don’t require a lot of time or cleanup. Whether you’re hosting or attending a Friendsgiving event, make lasting memories this turkey day!
Photo Credits: Alexy Almond, Askar Abayev, cottonbro studio, Kelsey Chance, Keighla Exum, Cedric Fauntleroy, Micheile Henderson, Daniel Horvath, Lucas Lenzi, Philip Myrtorp, Isaac Owens, Jennifer Pallian, Priscilla Du Preez, Claudio Schwarz, Jake Warren
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