Planning a Thankful “Friendsgiving”

A flurry of delicious food, savory sides, and the perfect double layer pumpkin cheesecake have likely taken over your Pinterest feed lately. With all the culinary inspiration, you may be feeling ready to embark on a new tradition with your friends. A Friendsgiving gathering is a welcome addition to your November calendar, regardless of your family plans on Thanksgiving. Refer to my tips below to get started.

Select a date.
If you will be out of town on Thanksgiving, choose an alternate date that works well with your groups schedule. No travel plans? Thanksgiving may become Friendsgiving with your close friends and neighbors who are also staying close to home.

Extend an invitation.
Whether you choose to get the conversation going by group chat/text, send out a Facebook event, or mail beautiful handmade invitations, do what works best for you. The important thing is to get the event on everyone’s radar as soon as you can.

Organize the menu.
Friendsgiving is all about friendship, which should feel natural and relaxed. Of course, the food is a critical detail, but it can come together easily with a little communication. Would you prefer to handle the main dish, and ask friends to bring a side or dessert? Are you going with traditional Thanksgiving fare or including favorite recipes from your guests holiday table? I had a friend who served a “bite-sized” Friendsgiving menu. Sweet potato crostini, turkey sliders, pumpkin tarts…a fun assortment of foods without the fuss.

Select the venue.
Chances are, you will be hosting at your place, but don’t rule out other options if it will mean less holiday stress on your plate. Meet at a favorite park and designate a few grill masters as you set up serving tables and a warm cocoa station. Reserve your apartment’s meeting room and enjoy the game tables and big screen TV.

Set the table.
For an easy guide, refer to my Friendsgiving Place Setting below.

Soak it in.
You are spending time with some of the most delightful and interesting people you know. Do your best to relax, don’t hesitate to ask for help, and remember to have lots of fun. This new tradition will be one you look forward to year after year.

You may also enjoy my Twenty Autumn Inspired Date Ideas!

Happy Friendsgiving!