Friendsgiving is the best mix of food, friends, and fun. It’s like Thanksgiving, but easier and more relaxed. No pressure, no rules – just laughter, memories, and good food.

If you want to plan your own Friendsgiving, this guide is for you. It’s full of simple Friendsgiving ideas that anyone can try.

What is Friendsgiving?

Friendsgiving is a get-together with your favorite people. It’s your version of Thanksgiving, but with friends instead of family.

It started as a fun way to celebrate when people couldn’t go home for the holidays. Now, it’s a yearly tradition for many groups.

You can host it anywhere, your home, a friend’s apartment, or even a park. The point is to relax and have fun.

When is Friendsgiving?

There’s no official date. That’s part of the charm.

Most people host it the weekend before or after Thanksgiving. That way, everyone can still spend the actual holiday with family if they want.

If you’re wondering when Friendsgiving is, aim for mid-to-late November. Pick a day that works best for your group.

How is Friendsgiving different from Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving can be formal and traditional. Friendsgiving is easy and fun.

You don’t need a turkey or a fancy table. You don’t even need to cook everything yourself. You just need people you love and food you enjoy.

Friendsgiving lets you make your own rules. That’s what makes it special.

10 simple ideas for your Friendsgiving party

Here are 10 ideas for a Friendsgiving party that are easy to pull off.

1. Make it a potluck

Have everyone bring a dish. It saves time and money. Plus, it’s fun to see what everyone makes.

Ask guests to share what they’re bringing, so there are no repeats. You’ll end up with a mix of sides, desserts, and drinks.

2. Set a theme or dress code

A theme makes your party more fun. Try “cozy night in,” “fall colors,” or “pajama Friendsgiving.”

It’s simple and adds personality. Everyone loves an excuse to dress up or down.

3. Create your own invites

Make cute invites that set the mood. You can use Picsart’s Thanksgiving Templates.

Pick a design you like. Change the word “Thanksgiving” to “Friendsgiving.” Add your own photos, colors, and details.

It’s quick, fun, and easy. You can send the invite by text, email, or post it on social media.

4. Decorate with simple touches

You don’t need to buy fancy decor.

Use what you have – candles, fairy lights, and pumpkins. Add a few leaves or flowers to make it feel like fall.

You can even use these free Thanksgiving Wallpapers from Picsart. Print them out as decor or use them on a screen for cozy vibes.

5. Set up a photo wall

Pick a corner and turn it into a photo spot. Hang lights or fabric behind it.

Add props like hats, glasses, or signs. Take group photos throughout the night.

They’ll make great memories and cute posts later.

6. Make a signature drink

A special drink makes your night feel extra festive.

Try apple cider sangria, cranberry punch, or hot chocolate with toppings. Set up a mini drink bar so people can mix their own.

Add small touches like fruit slices, cinnamon sticks, or whipped cream.

7. Share gratitude

Take a few minutes to go around the table and say one thing you’re thankful for.

It doesn’t have to be serious; it can even be funny. It’s a nice way to pause and remember why you’re all there.

8. Play games

After dinner, keep the fun going.

Try games like “Heads Up,” “Charades,” or “Never Have I Ever.” If your group loves trivia, make a Friendsgiving quiz about each other.

Games make everyone laugh and feel included.

9. End with dessert

Dessert is always a hit.

Set up a dessert table with pies, cookies, and brownies. Or do something interactive, like a cupcake-decorating bar.

If you’re feeling lazy, grab store-bought treats and add your own toppings. No one will mind.

10. Watch something cozy

When everyone’s full, put on a movie.

Play Friends Thanksgiving episodes, a feel-good comedy, or a holiday classic. Add blankets, dim the lights, and enjoy.

How to make Friendsgiving invites with Picsart

If you want your party to look organized, custom invites help. And with Picsart, it’s super easy.

Here’s how:

  1. Go to Picsart’s Thanksgiving templates.

  2. Pick a design you love.

  3. Click “Edit.”

  4. Change the text from “Thanksgiving” to “Friendsgiving.”

  5. Add your details – date, time, and location.

  6. Customize the colors, fonts, and images.

  7. Save and share.

You can print it or send it digitally.

Why it’s great:

  • It’s quick and easy.

  • You don’t need design skills.

  • It looks professional and fun.

With just a few clicks, you can make something that fits your vibe.

Extra tips for a stress-free Friendsgiving

  • Send invites early. Give guests time to plan.

  • Make a playlist. Mix calm dinner songs with upbeat ones for later.

  • Plan your space. Move furniture if you need more room.

  • Ask for help. Let people bring things or help clean up.

  • Take pictures. Capture real, funny moments.

  • Don’t stress. Friendsgiving doesn’t have to be perfect.

Friendsgiving menu ideas

You don’t need a five-course meal. Keep it simple and tasty.

Main dishes:

  • Roast chicken or turkey

  • Baked pasta or lasagna

  • Veggie casserole

Sides:

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Roasted veggies

  • Mac and cheese

  • Bread rolls

Desserts:

  • Pumpkin pie

  • Cookies

  • Brownies

  • Apple crumble

Drinks:

  • Wine, cider, or mocktails

  • Coffee and tea for dessert time

Make what you like. Everyone will appreciate the effort.

Make it memorable with creative touches

Want to make your Friendsgiving stand out? Try adding small, personal touches that make people smile.

You can write everyone’s name on a little card and place it by their seat. Or print group photos from the past year and scatter them around the table. They’ll spark great memories and stories.

Another idea: make a “memory jar.” Ask everyone to write their favorite moment or inside joke on a small piece of paper. Collect them all in a jar, then read them out loud at the end of the night. It’s a sweet and funny way to end dinner.

Music also helps set the mood. Create a shared playlist on Spotify where everyone adds their favorite songs. Mix chill dinner tunes with upbeat ones for dancing later.

You could even add a fun activity – like a group Polaroid photo session, a “Best Dish” award, or a “Thankful Wall” where guests write what they’re grateful for.

These little extras make your gathering feel personal. They don’t cost much, but they make a big difference.

And don’t forget the photos! Set up your photo wall early, check the lighting, and take a mix of candid and group shots. Those photos will be your favorite souvenirs from the night.

Why Friendsgiving matters

Friendsgiving is more than a meal. It’s a reminder of what matters most – friendship.

Life gets busy. People move, jobs change, and we all get caught up in routines. Friendsgiving is a way to slow down and reconnect.

It’s also a space where everyone belongs. You can invite old friends, new friends, or even coworkers. There’s no pressure – just good company.

Every year, it becomes more popular because it’s flexible. You can go big or keep it small. You can cook or order in. What matters is being together.

Make your Friendsgiving unforgettable

With a little creativity, you can turn a simple dinner into a night everyone talks about.

Use Picsart’s Thanksgiving Templates to design your invites, menus, or thank-you notes. You can even create cute posters or table cards.

If you want to decorate your space, grab some free Thanksgiving Wallpapers from Picsart. Print them or display them digitally for instant fall vibes.

Light some candles, put on a cozy playlist, and fill the room with good food and laughter.

At the end of the day, Friendsgiving is about sharing gratitude with the people who make your life better.

So plan it, enjoy it, and make it your own.

FAQ

Why have Friendsgiving instead of Thanksgiving?
Because it’s fun, easy, and stress-free. You get to celebrate with your friends, no family drama, no big rules.

When should I host Friendsgiving?
Usually, the weekend before or after Thanksgiving. Pick a date that fits your group’s schedule.

What happens at Friendsgiving?
You eat, laugh, take pictures, play games, and relax. It’s your own version of the holiday.

Do I need to cook everything myself?
No! Make it a potluck so everyone brings something. It’s easier and cheaper.

What’s a good gift to bring?
A dessert, a bottle of wine, or something simple like candles or snacks.

The heart of Friendsgiving

Friendsgiving is special because it’s yours. No pressure, no rules – just people who make you happy.

You can plan every detail or keep it casual. Either way, it’s about connection and gratitude.

So invite your friends, cook what you love, and celebrate how far you’ve all come.

The food will disappear, but the memories will stay.