“Friendsgiving” is a mashup of the words “friends” and “Thanksgiving” and is a relatively modern concept that has gained popularity in recent years. This term refers to friends gathering to celebrate Thanksgiving together, typically with a more casual and informal approach compared to traditional family Thanksgiving celebrations.
The exact origins of Friendsgiving are not well-documented, but it’s believed to have emerged as a response to the changing dynamics of modern friendships and social circles. As people have become more mobile and diverse in their relationships, it’s common for individuals to have friends who may not have close family nearby or who might be unable to travel to be with their families during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Friendsgiving allows friends to come together and celebrate the holiday in a more relaxed and flexible setting. It is often seen as an opportunity to create a sense of family among friends and to express gratitude for those relationships.
Friendsgiving has really been popularized through social media, where people share their Friendsgiving gatherings, creative food ideas, and unique traditions. Over time, it has become a recognized and celebrated tradition in its own right, with people putting their own spin on the event—whether that involves non-traditional food choices, themed parties, or inventive decorations.
In essence, Friendsgiving embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving by focusing on gratitude, togetherness, and sharing while adapting to the evolving nature of social connections and friendships in the modern world.
Sound like a good way for you and your friends to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday this year? Here are some food and entertaining ideas to make your Friendsgiving unique and memorable:
FEEDING EVERYONE
- Potluck Style: Friendsgiving is often more casual than traditional Thanksgiving, so consider having a potluck-style feast where each guest brings a dish to share. This not only eases the burden on the host but also allows everyone to contribute their favorite recipes.
- Non-Traditional Dishes: While you can still include traditional Thanksgiving dishes, consider adding some non-traditional options to the menu to mix things up. This could consist of dishes from different cuisines or unique twists on classic recipes.
- DIY Food Stations: Set up DIY food stations for things like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even a build-your-own turkey slider bar. This adds an interactive element to the meal and lets guests customize their plates.
- Signature Cocktails: Create a signature Friendsgiving cocktail or mocktail that fits the festive atmosphere. You could also have a variety of drinks available, including wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options.
- Dessert Bar: Create a dessert bar with a variety of sweet treats, including pies, cookies, and other desserts. This gives your guests plenty of options to satisfy their sweet tooth.
DÉCOR & SEATING
- DIY Decorations: You don’t need extravagant decorations, but some simple DIY touches can enhance the atmosphere. Consider making a table centerpiece using seasonal fruits, candles, and fall foliage.
- Thoughtful Seating: If you have a larger gathering, consider creating a seating arrangement to encourage mingling and conversation among all your guests.
- Friendsgiving Playlist: Create a playlist with a mix of nostalgic and upbeat songs that can serve as background music throughout the event.
ACTIVITIES
- Gratitude Activity: Before the meal, have a gratitude activity where guests can share something they’re thankful for. This sets a positive tone for the gathering and encourages meaningful conversations.
- Games and Activities: Plan some entertaining games or activities to keep the energy high. Charades, trivia, or even a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt can be a lot of fun.
- Friendsgiving Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with Thanksgiving-themed props and a backdrop. This will allow your guests to take fun and memorable photos together.
- Friendsgiving Craft Corner: Set up a craft corner where guests can create festive decorations or crafts. This is especially great if you have children attending the event.
- Take-Home Favors: Send your guests home with a small token of appreciation, like mini pumpkin pies, homemade cookies, or a small potted plant.
- Give Back: In the spirit of Thanksgiving, consider incorporating a giving-back element, like having guests bring canned goods to donate to a local food bank.
The most important thing when celebrating Friendsgiving is to create an atmosphere of warmth, gratitude, and togetherness. Friendsgiving is about enjoying the company of your friends, sharing delicious food, and creating beautiful memories.
Looking for some Thanksgiving recipe ideas? Check out these articles:
- The Top 10 Thanksgiving Recipes You Need To Try This Year
- Tired Of Turkey? Here Are 4 Delicious Holiday Centerpiece Recipes You Need To Try
- Thanksgiving Dinner… With A Twist!
- Celebrate This Thanksgiving With A Few New Dessert Recipes
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! We hope that your celebrations are lovely.
How do you celebrate Thanksgiving? Have you ever participated in a Friendsgiving? Let us know in the comments!
