As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the people who make our lives truly special. While Thanksgiving has long been a tradition for gathering with family, Friendsgiving offers an opportunity to celebrate with another important group—our chosen family.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes Friendsgiving so meaningful, share tips for hosting or attending, and encourage you to create traditions that celebrate the unique bonds you share with your friends.
The Rise of Friendsgiving
Friendsgiving has become a cherished tradition for many. It’s a chance to gather with friends and celebrate the love, laughter, and support they bring into our lives. Whether it’s a pre-Thanksgiving get-together or a full replacement of the traditional family dinner, Friendsgiving is all about inclusion, flexibility, and creating memories with the people who matter most.
For some, it’s a way to avoid the stress or formality of a family gathering. For others, it’s simply a fun excuse to eat delicious food, share stories, and strengthen friendships. The beauty of Friendsgiving lies in its simplicity—there are no strict rules, just good company and gratitude.
The Importance of Chosen Family
Your chosen family consists of the people you’ve surrounded yourself with because they uplift, understand, and love you unconditionally. These relationships often go beyond friendship—they’re the lifeline that helps you navigate life’s ups and downs.
Friendsgiving is a celebration of these connections. It’s about honoring the people who choose to be there for you, not because they have to, but because they want to.
How to Host a Memorable Friendsgiving
If you’re hosting this year, here are some tips to make your gathering unforgettable:
- Delegate Like a Pro
Don’t take on everything yourself! Ask your friends to bring a dish, drinks, or even extra chairs. A potluck-style dinner not only eases your workload but adds a personal touch as everyone contributes to the meal. - Create a Relaxed Atmosphere
Skip the fine china and go for cozy vibes. Use candles, fairy lights, and even mismatched tableware to set the tone. Friendsgiving is about connection, not perfection. - Make it Fun
Plan a game or activity, like charades, a trivia round, or a gratitude jar where everyone shares what they’re thankful for. These small touches can create lasting memories. - Music Is a Must
Build a playlist filled with feel-good tracks to keep the energy light and festive. Bonus points if you add songs that remind everyone of your time together.
How to Be a Thoughtful Friendsgiving Guest
If you’re attending a Friendsgiving, here’s how to be the guest everyone loves:
- Bring Something Thoughtful
Whether it’s a dish, a bottle of wine, or even a handwritten thank-you card for the host, a small contribution goes a long way. - Offer to Help
Pitch in with cleanup, setting the table, or serving food. Your host will appreciate the extra hands. - Be Present and Grateful
Take time to enjoy the moment, share laughs, and express gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate together.
Creating Your Own Traditions
One of the best things about Friendsgiving is the freedom to make it your own. Unlike more traditional holidays, there’s no rulebook.
Consider starting a tradition that feels unique to your group. Maybe it’s a group photo every year, a signature dish everyone looks forward to, or even a “Friendsgiving Awards” ceremony where you vote for things like “Best Cook” or “Funniest Story.” These traditions will keep everyone coming back year after year.
Closing Thoughts
Friendsgiving is about more than just sharing a meal—it’s about celebrating the people who make life brighter. It’s a reminder that family isn’t just about blood; it’s about love, support, and laughter.
This year, whether you’re hosting or attending, take a moment to soak in the joy of your chosen family. Share gratitude, make memories, and let the people around you know just how much they mean to you.
Here’s to a Friendsgiving filled with love, laughter, and lots of leftovers!
Tea with a Taurus 