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This post will show you the best friendsgiving ideas.
Friendsgiving is the perfect way to gather your closest friends and celebrate the season of gratitude.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or a festive potluck, creating a memorable event is all about the details.
From mouthwatering dishes to creative decor, this special gathering is your chance to put your personal spin on the traditional Thanksgiving celebration.
In this post, we’ll share 18 amazing Friendsgiving ideas to help you host the best gathering ever—one that your friends will be talking about for years to come!
Let’s dive in and start planning a celebration full of fun, food, and friendship.
When Is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving typically falls on the Wednesday before or the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States.
Since Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, Friendsgiving often takes place on the Wednesday (known as “Thanksgiving Eve”) or the weekend following Thanksgiving.
However, there’s no official date—people usually choose a time that works best for their group of friends, and it can happen anytime in November or early December.
Friendsgiving Invitations
1. Digital Invitations
- Text Invitations – Create a simple invitation using text messaging apps like iMessage or WhatsApp. You can make it more fun by attaching a graphic or GIF.
- Evite – A popular platform for creating customizable online invitations. They offer Friendsgiving-themed designs with options to RSVP, add event details, and even bring a dish.
- Paperless Post – Offers stylish digital invitations that mimic traditional paper invites. You can customize the design, text, and colors to fit your Friendsgiving vibe.
- Canva – With Canva, you can design your own invitation from scratch or use one of their Friendsgiving templates. You can personalize it with photos, text, and colors, then send it digitally via email or social media.
2. Physical Invitations
- DIY Invitations: If you’re feeling crafty, you can make your own Friendsgiving invitations using card stock, fall-themed stickers, and calligraphy or hand lettering. Personalize them with jokes, Friendsgiving puns, or inside jokes.
- Printable Templates: Download and print Friendsgiving-themed invitations from websites like Etsy or Canva, where you can find unique and customizable templates.
- Greeting Cards: Use fall-themed greeting cards as invitations. You can write the details inside and mail them to your friends for a more personal touch.
What To Include On The Invitation?
- Event Name: “Friendsgiving 2024” or “Friendsgiving Feast.”
- Date and Time: Be clear on the date and start time.
- Location: Include the full address and parking or travel tips if needed.
- Theme (if applicable): Let guests know if there’s a theme, like “Cozy Casual” or “Fall Flavors.”
- Potluck Details: If it’s a potluck, include a note asking guests to bring a dish, and consider creating a Google Doc for sign-ups to avoid duplicates.
- RSVP Details: Include a way for guests to RSVP, whether it’s through a website, text, or phone call.
Best Friendsgiving Ideas
To make it even easier, we’ve split them into five categories:
- Table and House Decor
- Main/Side Courses
- Drinks
- Desserts
- Activities
Whether you’re looking for creative decor inspiration or fun ways to keep your guests entertained, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to throw the best Friendsgiving ever!
Table and House Decor
1. Autumn-Themed Centerpiece
I love using a fall-themed centerpiece for Friendsgiving.
A mix of pumpkins, pinecones, and green leaves really makes the table feel festive.
It’s a super easy way to bring the season to your gathering.
Plus, it adds such a warm and cozy vibe to the room!
2. Personalized Name Cards
Personalized name cards are one of my favorite Friendsgiving ideas because they make each guest feel special.
You can get creative and use mini pumpkins or even simple card stock.
It’s a thoughtful touch that guests always appreciate.
Plus, it adds a personal element to your table setup.
3. Wicker Placemats
Wicker placemats are an easy way to add a natural, rustic feel to your Friendsgiving table.
They’re a simple choice and pair well with any fall decor.
I like how they bring a bit of texture to the table, making everything look more put-together.
It’s one of those Friendsgiving ideas that is so easy to do.
4. Plaid Table Runner
Using a plaid table runner is a classic Friendsgiving idea that never gets old.
It instantly adds a cozy, fall vibe to your table.
You can go with bold colors or soft neutrals, depending on your style.
I think it really ties the whole table setting together.
5. Twinkling String Lights
Twinkling string lights are one of my go-to Friendsgiving ideas for creating a warm, magical atmosphere.
You can hang them above the table or around the room for a soft glow.
It instantly makes the space feel more intimate and inviting.
Plus, everyone loves that cozy lighting!
Drinks
6. Pumpkin Margarita
A pumpkin margarita is such a fun drink for Friendsgiving.
The blend of pumpkin, tequila, and spices is a delicious twist on a classic cocktail.
I love serving something a little different that still feels festive.
It’s a great way to surprise your guests with something new!
7. Cranberry Orange Sangria
Cranberry orange sangria is one of those Friendsgiving ideas that I always come back to
It’s fruity, refreshing, and has the perfect fall flavor.
The mix of cranberries and oranges adds a seasonal touch that pairs well with the meal.
It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!
8. Blood Orange Ginger Cranberry Mojitos
These blood orange ginger cranberry mojitos are a fun and zesty drink to serve at Friendsgiving.
The ginger adds a little spice while the cranberry and blood orange keep it fresh and tangy.
I like how the flavors feel so festive and different from the usual drinks.
Plus, they look so pretty in the glass!
Main/Side Courses
9. Friendsgiving Charcuterie Board
A Friendsgiving charcuterie board is always a hit because it offers something for everyone.
You can mix and match meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers, making it easy to customize.
I love how it looks impressive but is actually super easy to put together.
It’s a perfect appetizer that guests can nibble on while they mingle.
10. Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
A garlic herb butter roasted turkey is a must for Friendsgiving.
The garlic and herbs give it so much flavor, and the butter makes the skin crispy and golden.
I think it’s one of the best ways to elevate your turkey without a ton of effort.
Plus, the whole house smells amazing while it’s roasting!
11. Sweet Potato & Marshmallow Casserole
Sweet potato and marshmallow casserole is a Friendsgiving classic, and it’s one of my all-time favorites.
The mix of sweet and savory is so comforting and nostalgic.
It’s always a big hit at the table, and people go back for seconds.
You really can’t go wrong with this dish!
12. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Reduction
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic reduction are such a tasty, healthier option for Friendsgiving.
The balsamic adds a rich sweetness that makes the Brussels sprouts irresistible.
I love how simple yet flavorful this dish is.
It’s a great side that balances out all the other heavier foods.
13. Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is one of those comforting, creamy sides that feels like a hug in a bowl.
It’s rich, buttery, and pairs perfectly with the turkey and other dishes.
I like to make it for Friendsgiving because it’s easy and always a hit.
Plus, it brings that perfect touch of sweetness to the table.
Desserts
14. Pumpkin Pie
15. Pumpkin Pie
16. Apple Cobbler
Activities
17. Friendsgiving Bingo
Friendsgiving Bingo is such a fun way to break the ice and get everyone laughing.
You can make bingo cards with funny Friendsgiving moments or inside jokes.
It’s definitely one of my favorite Friendsgiving ideas for keeping things light and fun.
18. Friendsgiving Trivia
Friendsgiving trivia is a great way to test everyone’s knowledge and have some friendly competition.
You can include questions about Thanksgiving history or personal trivia about your friend group.
It’s always a good laugh when people get stumped!
Plus, it’s a fun way to learn something new while hanging out.
19. Charades
Charades is such a classic game, and it’s perfect for Friendsgiving because it gets everyone moving and laughing.
You can keep it Thanksgiving-themed or mix it up with random categories.
I love how it brings out people’s silly side.
It’s a must-have for adding energy to the gathering!
20. Friendsgiving Awards
Friendsgiving awards are a fun way to add a little extra excitement to the night.
You can give out silly titles like “Best Dressed” or “Most Likely to Nap After Dinner.”
It’s one of those Friendsgiving ideas that adds a personal, lighthearted touch to the evening.
Everyone loves a little friendly competition!
21. Gratitude Jar
A gratitude jar is such a meaningful way to end Friendsgiving.
You ask guests to write down something they’re thankful for, and then you read them aloud at the end of the meal.
It’s a beautiful way to reflect on the day and the friendships you cherish.
I love how it adds a heartfelt moment to the celebration.
This post showed you the best friendsgiving ideas.
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