What is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving is generally hosting a Thanksgiving meal among friends a week before the actual holiday. I’ve been doing Friendsgiving for a few years now, and I can officially attest that every person needs to experience a Friendsgiving at least once in their lifetime (Trust me, once will not be enough). Here are just a few reasons why I say Friendsgiving is pretty much the best thing ever:
Less Stress than Family Gatherings
Let’s face it–most family gatherings have some level of stress. Awkward small talk with distant cousins, political differences simmering below the surface, traveling with children, or playing host and hotel to out-of-town relatives all add up to stress that doesn’t happen at Friendsgiving. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, you have the added stress of creating the menu and not burning the turkey. In general, Friendsgiving is viewed more as a party that happens to have Thanksgiving-related food. An added bonus? Friendsgiving is served pot-luck style, so the entire menu doesn’t fall directly on one person’s shoulders.
Get Fancy with Your Friends
When was the last time you dressed in your Sunday best and gathered all of your closest friends around one table? If you’re anything like me, it probably doesn’t happen very often. There’s just something extra special about getting all dolled up and spending an evening with your friends. I also like that it gives you a chance to kick off the holiday season without the pressure of gift giving. Before the Christmas madness starts, you can just enjoy each other’s company.
Find Creativity in Your Thanksgiving Dishes
It’s pretty much expected that most Thanksgiving dinners included traditional Thanksgiving dishes along with family recipes that have been passed down for years. With Friendsgiving, you have a bit more freedom without the expectations. Want to try out the new charcuterie board? Or that pecan pie cheesecake recipe? Not sure how that roasted shallot and grape relish is going to turn out? Use your friends as guinea pigs to sample your new creation! You know you’ll get their honest reviews.
Eat a Double Dose of Thanksgiving Dinner
I might not grab a second slice of pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving, but you better believe I’ll get a piece on Friendsgiving AND Thanksgiving. I realize some might view having Friendsgiving before Thanksgiving as excessive, but no one thinks twice about attending multiple Christmas parties all season long. Why not make Thanksgiving season-long, too? My husband and I love Thanksgiving dinner, so any chance of getting round two is gladly welcome!
This year, I’m most excited about spending time with my family on Thanksgiving day. I get to prepare a special feast and visit with my sister who lives out of town. But, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t love Friendsgiving, too.