When the holiday season rolls around, we all know what to expect — turkey, mashed potatoes, family gatherings, and maybe a little chaos mixed in. But over the last couple of decades, another tradition has taken root alongside Thanksgiving: Friendsgiving. It’s cozy, casual, and all about celebrating the people you choose to call family.
What Exactly Is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving is, at its heart, a Thanksgiving-style meal shared among friends rather than family. It usually takes place before or after Thanksgiving Day itself, giving everyone the chance to connect without juggling multiple family obligations.
Think of it as Thanksgiving’s laid-back cousin — no stress, no assigned seating charts, and no one judging your store-bought pie. Everyone brings a dish, shares stories, laughs too loud, and maybe watches football or holiday movies in the background.
The Origins of Friendsgiving
While there’s no single official “first” Friendsgiving, the concept started gaining steam in the early 2000s. Some say it began as a way for young adults living far from home to still celebrate the holiday season with their chosen families.
The term “Friendsgiving” first popped up online and in pop culture around 2007, but it really took off thanks to social media. Instagram posts of beautifully mismatched tables, overflowing charcuterie boards, and toasts over pumpkin punch helped turn a simple gathering into a cultural moment.
Brands soon caught on — from grocery stores running “Friendsgiving” ads to TV shows dedicating episodes to the theme — and now it’s as much a part of November as the Macy’s Parade.
Why Friendsgiving Feels So Special
There’s something refreshing about celebrating without the pressure of perfection. Friendsgiving is about gratitude, but in a softer, more personal way. It’s about:
- Flexibility: You can host it potluck-style, cook together, or order takeout.
- Comfort: No family drama, no travel chaos — just your favorite people and good food.
- Creativity: Every Friendsgiving table looks different — from candlelit dinners to backyard bonfires.
And let’s be real — sometimes your friends understand you in ways even your family doesn’t. That’s what makes Friendsgiving feel so meaningful.
How to Host Your Own Friendsgiving
If you’re ready to start your own Friendsgiving tradition, here are a few easy tips:
- Pick a date early. Aim for the weekend before Thanksgiving so more people can attend.
- Plan the menu together. Use a shared note or group chat so you don’t end up with seven mac and cheeses (unless that’s the vibe).
- Set the mood. Cozy lighting, music, and a few seasonal touches — dark woods, warm tones, rustic table settings — make it feel festive without being fussy.
- Don’t forget gratitude. Go around the table and share one thing you’re thankful for this year. It always hits home.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
Whether you’re surrounded by lifelong friends or a new group you’ve just found, Friendsgiving is proof that family doesn’t have to be defined by blood — it’s about connection, laughter, and showing up for one another.
So this November, take a moment to celebrate your people — the ones who’ve seen you through your best and worst days, and who show up anyway, casserole in hand. That’s the real heart of Friendsgiving.