How to Host the Perfect Friendsgiving: A Complete Guide for a Memorable Celebration

There’s something undeniably special about Friendsgiving—a day where you gather your closest friends, share a delicious meal, and celebrate gratitude in the most fun, laid-back way possible. It’s the kind of holiday that isn’t about perfection but about creating memories, laughing until your sides hurt, and indulging in comfort food surrounded by your favorite people. It’s become a beloved tradition among friend groups, offering a chance to get together and reflect on what really matters: friendship, connection, and good vibes.

This article is here to help you curate the ultimate Friendsgiving that is sure to wow your guest. From from cute invites and cozy decor to fun games, we’ll guide you through these key steps to make the perfect vibe and aesthetic for your 2024 Friendsgiving.

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1. Send Cute Invites

The first step to hosting an amazing Friendsgiving is picking the perfect date. You’ll want to find a sweet spot that works for everyone, usually a week or two before or after Thanksgiving to avoid any conflicts with family plans. It can be tricky to coordinate schedules, so consider starting a group chat or poll to figure out which weekend works best for the majority of your crew. Flexibility is key—Friendsgiving doesn’t have to happen on a specific day, as long as all your favorite people can be there!

Once you’ve locked down the date, it’s time to spread the word! Gone are the days of formal paper invites (unless you’re into that vintage vibe, of course).

Even though texting the group chat is the easiest route, sending out actual invites (even digital ones) makes it feel more special. Opt for a cute Friendsgiving-themed design or create your own using an online tool like Canva. Bonus points if you throw in a funny inside joke to get everyone excited.

Our Favorite Friendsgiving Invites:

2. Set the Vibe: Decor & Ambience

Once you’ve set the date and sent your invites, it’s time to think about the vibe you want to create for your Friendsgiving. For that cozy, fall vibe think about incorporating seasonal touches such as mini pumpkins, fall foliage, rustic fabrics, and other earthy elements to really capture the season.

Friendsgiving Decor Ideas:

3. Create a Playlist That Sets the Mood

To further amplify the Friendsgiving vibes and ambiance music is a must. Curate a playlist that transitions from chill vibes during dinner to more upbeat tunes as the night goes on. Mix in your friends’ favorite songs, some throwback hits, and a few festive fall jams. Not only does it set the mood, but it also helps avoid awkward silences and keeps the energy up.

4. Signature Cocktail

What’s a party without a signature drink? Whip up a crowd-pleaser like apple cider margaritas or a creamy pumpkin spice martini. Bonus points if it matches the fall aesthetic (and looks fab on Instagram). Have a non-alcoholic version for those who don’t drink or want to take it easy.

5. Buffet Style/Potluck for the Win

Instead of stressing over cooking the entire feast yourself, make it a potluck or buffet-style affair. Have everyone bring their favorite dish (bonus points if they make it themselves!). This way, the workload is spread out, and you get a variety of foods on the table. Plus, it’s a fun way for everyone to share their favorite recipes. If you’re feeling organized, make a Google sheet so people can coordinate dishes ahead of time.

6. Personalized Place Cards

Add a personal touch with cute, personalized place cards. Whether you DIY them with calligraphy or use a quick template online, this little detail can make your Friendsgiving feel more intentional. If you’re feeling crafty, you can tie these place cards to small fall-themed gifts, like mini pumpkins or candles.

Friendsgiving Name Card Inspo:

7. Gratitude Moment

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, so why not incorporate that into Friendsgiving? Take a moment during the dinner where everyone shares one thing they’re grateful for. It could be funny, heartfelt, or completely random, but it’s a great way to bring everyone together and reflect on the good things in life.

8. Fun Games to Play with Friends

After everyone’s sufficiently stuffed, break out the games! Go for fun, low-effort party games like “What Do You Meme?” or charades. If you’re up for it, you could also try a Friendsgiving trivia game with questions about your group’s funniest moments and inside jokes. Keep it light and full of laughs.

Friendsgiving Game Ideas:

9. Photo Wall for Instagram-Worthy Snaps

No Friendsgiving is complete without a photo wall. Set up a backdrop with fairy lights, fall leaves, or a cute banner that says “Friendsgiving.” Provide fun props, and boom—you’ve got an Insta-worthy spot for all those group selfies. Don’t forget to use a designated hashtag so everyone can easily find and share their pics later!

Friendsgiving Photo Wall Decor:

10. Pack Leftovers for Everyone

No one should leave a Friendsgiving empty-handed! Have cute containers ready so your guests can take home some leftovers. It’s a great way to avoid food waste, and your friends will definitely appreciate that next-day meal. Plus, it keeps the spirit of Thanksgiving going even after the party’s over.

Thanksgiving Leftovers:

Thanksgiving Leftover Tin with Funny Lid

Conclusion

Friendsgiving is all about celebrating your chosen family—your friends—and creating lasting memories. With these simple yet fun tips, your Friendsgiving will be a night to remember, full of great food, laughs, and maybe a couple of too-full bellies. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about spending time with your people and making the most of the holiday in your own way.

So, get your invites out, set the vibe, and start prepping for the best Friendsgiving ever!