The holiday season is gearing up, so it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to celebrate. As we all know, Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to share your gratitude for your loved ones and spend quality time with those closest to you. Whether you’re hosting or striving to be a gracious houseguest, keep reading for tips to create the perfect Friendsgiving celebration.
Make It Official
There’s nothing like sending back an RSVP to an event—it ups the anticipation and gets you in the party mood! Mess around on Canva or Adobe Illustrator (if you’re a design person) and send out e-invites. You can do a classic text message, official email or even use a platform like Partiful, which will tell your guests all they need to know and send them reminders closer to the main event. Or, if you want to uphold a traditional Thanksgiving atmosphere, make your own invitations on physical paper and send them or drop them in your guests’ mailboxes (archaic, I know).
The Ambience
Thanksgiving table centerpieces can run upwards of $100, so save yourself the money and find some fun, inexpensive table decorations. For example, are a surefire cheap add-on to make the vibe both pretty and cozy. If you want to add some fun florals, stop by a Michael’s or other craft store to pick up some and make your own little centerpiece.
You may be surprised how far a can go in transforming your thrifted, chipped wood table into an elegant dining table. While you will probably be chattering away over dinner, you can also curate a chill playlist that won’t distract your conversation (think songs by Norah Jones or Leon Bridges) or from a streaming platform to pop on.
Activities
Before the feast, gather your group together for some interactive games or entertainment. Some fan-favorites include Taboo, Cards Against Humanity, and karaoke (even better if it’s blind!). If you’re able, Jackbox Games are also a fun alternative to traditional board games. If you want to channel your inner “Friends,” head outside for some touch football, too!
For friend groups with an artsy side, buy some mini canvases and a paint set. Follow along with a Bob Ross tutorial or let your creative juices flow and your brush guide you.
The Food
While cooking a perfect turkey would be deeply impressive, odds are you might not have the access or the time to spend nursing a bird to golden brown perfection. An easy solution to take the burden off the Friendsgiving host is to go for a potluck. Each guest can bring a home-cooked or premade dish for everyone to enjoy! Here are some to try if you’re interested in making something for the big event. To make sure you have enough food to go around, coordinate with your guests about the food they’re planning to bring.
Give Thanks
What’s a Friendsgiving without gratitude? If you’re a traditionalist, stick to the classics and go around the table and say what you’re thankful for. But if you want to shake things up, try writing kind notes to your guests, or make a gratitude tree at the table. Cut out little leaves of construction paper and have your guests write something they’re thankful for on them. Then, you can attach your “leaves” to faux branches. Not only will this foster connection between your guests, but you’ll end up with a physical reminder of your celebration.
Written By Chloe Langerman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications