Friendsgiving: the unofficial holiday that makes Thanksgiving even better. No awkward political debates with relatives, no judgment over how much pie you eat, and the perfect excuse to gather your chosen family around a table (or a couch). Friendsgiving is all about gratitude, laughter, and making memories with your favorite people. Here’s some hosting tips, dish ideas, and even a few festive cocktails to make your Friendsgiving one to remember.
Friendsgiving is a heartfelt way to celebrate the family we choose. It’s a chance to connect, share stories, and create new traditions. Whether your friends are near or far, the gathering symbolizes gratitude for the bonds that make life brighter.
Hosting Tips to Keep It Simple and Special
Hosting Friendsgiving doesn’t have to be a stress-fest. Here are a few tips to make it easy and enjoyable:
- Delegate Dishes: Don’t try to cook it all! Create a signup sheet for appetizers, sides, and desserts to ensure variety without overlap.
- Set the Vibe: Decorate with cozy candles, string lights, or even hand-drawn “I’m thankful for…” cards. A playlist of feel-good tunes never hurts either.
- Prep Ahead: Set up a buffet-style serving area so everyone can help themselves, and you’re not stuck plating food.
Cocktail Recipes to Toast the Season
- Cranberry Smash
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- ½ oz orange liqueur
- Splash of soda water
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary for garnish Shake vodka, cranberry juice, and orange liqueur with ice, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish.
- Apple Cider Sangria
- 1 bottle white wine
- 2 cups apple cider
- ½ cup brandy
- 1 sliced apple, 1 sliced orange, and 1 cinnamon stick Mix all ingredients in a pitcher and chill for a few hours. Serve over ice for the perfect fall sip.
- Pumpkin Pie Martini
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz pumpkin spice liqueur
- ½ oz heavy cream
- Crushed graham crackers for rimming Rim your glass with graham cracker crumbs. Shake ingredients with ice and strain into the prepared glass.
Side Dishes to Bring (and Impress Your Friends)
- Sweet Potato Casserole Bites Take the classic casserole and miniaturize it! Use muffin tins to bake individual portions topped with marshmallows and pecans.
- Charcuterie Cornucopia Fill a hollowed-out bread cone with meats, cheeses, and fruits for a festive take on a grazing board.
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Maple Glaze Roast sprouts with crispy bacon bits, then drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet-savory side.
- Mac & Cheese Muffins A crowd-pleaser in portable form! Use muffin tins to bake creamy mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Fun Ideas to Spice Up the Gathering
- Gratitude Jar: Have guests jot down something they’re thankful for and read them aloud before dessert.
- Photo Booth Corner: Create a fall-themed backdrop with props like hats, fake mustaches, and mini pumpkins.
- Leftovers Swap: Encourage everyone to bring containers to trade leftovers. It’s the ultimate Friendsgiving party favor!
Whether you’re the host or a guest, Friendsgiving is about more than just food—it’s about friendship, laughter, and love. So gather your people, pour a drink, and get ready to feast. Here’s to good food, better friends, and the best memories.
