Friendsgiving is my absolute favorite time of year. It’s like Thanksgiving, but with all your best friends in the mix! There’s something about gathering around the table with those you’ve chosen as family that makes it so special. I’ve hosted quite a few Friendsgivings over the years, and I’ve learned that a little planning can go a long way in ensuring everything runs smoothly. After hosting multiple gatherings and navigating all the little hiccups along the way, I’ve compiled some of my best tips for making your Friendsgiving celebration both stress-free and unforgettable.
1. Start with a Theme
When it comes to planning your Friendsgiving, having a theme can make the whole process feel more cohesive. I love the idea of giving your event a twist, even if it’s just a simple color palette or a fun, quirky theme like “retro Thanksgiving” or “tropical fall.” A theme helps you make decisions about decor, food, and even the music. Plus, it’ll give your friends something to get excited about!
For example, one year, I hosted a “Thankful for Travel” Friendsgiving where everyone brought a dish from their favorite country or place they’ve visited. Not only did it spice up the food choices, but it also made for some fun conversations!
2. Plan Your Menu with Balance in Mind
Now, I know what you’re thinking—”How do I possibly make a meal that everyone will love?” Here’s my secret: I ask my friends to bring a dish! It’s the perfect way to get everyone involved, and it takes some of the pressure off me. But, as the host, I make sure I coordinate it all to avoid duplicates.
I always make sure there’s a good mix of traditional dishes (mashed potatoes, stuffing, turkey) and some fresh takes on old favorites. For example, one year, I swapped out the classic green bean casserole for roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic vinegar—it was a huge hit! Don’t forget to ask about dietary preferences or restrictions ahead of time (because there’s always someone who’s gluten-free or vegan!). I’ve learned the hard way that asking early on helps everyone feel included, and it gives me a chance to prepare some alternatives.
3. Set a Stress-Free Timeline
If you’re like me, you’ve had that moment where you’re rushing to get everything cooked and ready at the last minute. Over time, I’ve learned that breaking down my prep work into a timeline makes everything feel a lot less chaotic. I usually start by figuring out what needs to be done in the days leading up to the event and what can be done the morning of.
For example, I love making cranberry sauce a day ahead, and I prep my vegetables the night before. The turkey might take a while, so I’ll aim to have it in the oven a few hours before guests arrive, ensuring that I can focus on the sides and drinks as everyone starts to show up.
4. Create a Welcoming Space
As much as Friendsgiving is about the food, it’s also about the people. When people walk through my door, I want them to feel instantly at home. I’ve learned to keep my space cozy and inviting with little touches like soft throw blankets, candles, and some seasonal decorations. A table set with simple but pretty centerpieces can make the meal feel extra special. One year, I picked up mini pumpkins and a few sprigs of eucalyptus to place down the center of the table, and it brought the whole vibe together.
If you’re short on space, don’t stress—it’s more about creating an atmosphere of comfort and togetherness. Whether you’re hosting in a small apartment or a big house, I recommend having a few comfy seating options that encourage people to linger and chat.
5. Don’t Forget the Drinks
As the host, I’ve made the mistake of neglecting the drink situation in the past, which led to frantic runs to the store just as guests were arriving. Now, I make sure to have a good mix of options, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, so everyone feels taken care of. I love creating a signature cocktail for the night—something festive, like an apple cider sangria or a cranberry Moscow mule. I usually set up a drink station with cocktail ingredients and some fun glassware. It’s also a great icebreaker as guests can make their own drinks or offer suggestions for new combinations.
Make sure there’s plenty of water, too! A simple water station with some sliced fruit or herbs can be refreshing and adds a nice touch to your setup.
6. Set the Mood with Music
Music is such an important element of any gathering, and I’ve learned that a great playlist can completely transform the vibe. For Friendsgiving, I love creating a mix of upbeat tunes and mellow, cozy tracks. I’ll start the playlist a little before guests arrive, so there’s no awkward silence when everyone walks in. Some of my go-to artists for a Friendsgiving playlist are Norah Jones, The Lumineers, and some classic folk tunes—think cozy vibes that still get people talking.
If you’re not in the mood to make a playlist yourself, there are plenty of pre-made playlists on Spotify or Apple Music that cater to Thanksgiving or fall vibes. Plus, it’s a great way to discover new music!
7. Games and Activities (Keep it Light and Fun!)
I know not every Friendsgiving host is a “game person,” but hear me out—games can break the ice, and they’re a fun way to get everyone involved. The best Friendsgiving games don’t have to be complicated. In fact, I love starting the evening with a lighthearted icebreaker game like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Would You Rather.”
If you want something more structured, trivia is always a hit, and it’s easy to tailor it to your group. I’ve also found that interactive games like a DIY photo booth or a gratitude jar can add to the fun and leave people with lasting memories of the evening.
8. Enjoy the Moment!
Now, this tip might seem obvious, but I’ve learned that I need to remind myself to just breathe and enjoy the company of my friends. It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about the little things—whether everything is perfect or if everyone’s having a good time. But the truth is, what makes a Friendsgiving truly special is the connections, the laughter, and the joy of being together. I’ve hosted my fair share of imperfect meals, spilled drinks, and burnt rolls—and you know what? The best moments have always been the ones that weren’t planned.
So, take a step back, enjoy the food, the conversation, and the love that fills the room. After all, that’s what Friendsgiving is all about!
9. Clean Up? Keep It Simple
Here’s another tip I swear by: keep the cleanup simple! I used to get caught up in scrubbing every dish and washing all the pots and pans after everyone left, but now I’ve learned to enjoy the evening and clean up as I go. I’ll clear dishes as they’re finished and try to keep my kitchen organized as I prepare. If I need to ask for help, I do it without hesitation. Trust me—everyone will be happy to pitch in, and it lightens the load!
Also, don’t be afraid to ask guests to take leftovers home with them. It saves you storage space and ensures that the delicious food doesn’t go to waste.
Hosting Friendsgiving is one of my favorite traditions, and it’s something I look forward to every year. By taking the pressure off myself, planning ahead, and making it all about the people, I’ve learned how to host an event that’s stress-free and full of love. With these tips, I hope you can do the same! So, grab your apron, gather your friends, and get ready to make this Friendsgiving your best one yet.
Happy hosting!
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