Friendsgiving is upon us! Here are the essentials:

Graphic by Ande Wittenmeier

After the Halloween stores close and the spooky decorations go back into storage, our next stop is: Thanksgiving! Food, family, football - three fantastic Fs to complete the holiday. However, besides these factors, there’s another branch of Thanksgiving, another F, that will make the holiday that more wholesome: Friendsgiving. 

For those who are unfamiliar with Friendsgiving, here’s the rundown. Essentially it’s a time of the year to get together with your friends for a special occasion, to give thanks for being an integral part of your life, and celebrate your friendship. It’s Thanksgiving but without the whole blood relative part. 

Due to the season being upon us, we’re going to give you five essentials in order to have a wonderful Friendsgiving. 

1. A cozy spot 

Who has a house? Or a fireplace? A cozy atmosphere is a key element in having a chill and relaxed night. This is supposed to be about your friendships, to enjoy each other's presences and just hang out. To set the scene, a secluded place is your best bet, so someone’s house is probably the best spot to park. A fireplace would add to the cozy atmosphere, to sit next to and warm up while the weather chills. Perhaps you can watch football or drink cider, wherever you feel is best to have these intimate moments with your pals. 

2. Pre-planned food 

Always be prepared with the necessities, this included. Now, it doesn’t have to be the whole traditional buffet - turkey, squash, mash potatoes - but having a plan on what you’re going to have would be best. It could easily be takeout or something simple as a pizza if you don’t want the pressure to cook. You could even assign things for people to bring. 

3. Drinks 

Y’all know what we mean. Some cider would be a wonderful addition to your night. You can also coordinate with your friends to have everyone bring something different to have some taste testing festivities throughout the night. 

4. Bonding activities 

If you and your friends thrive best sitting at a table, eating and chatting, then ignore this, or don’t. But if you and your friend group have fun whilst doing activities, consider board games (trust us). Nothing screams fun more than having some (hopefully) friendly competitions. A deck of cards could be of use, as well, to occupy yourselves, for example, before the food arrives or during the cool down after the meal. 

5. Your best pals 

This is generally a given, but round up your closest friends! Regardless if you follow the tips above or not, you can’t really have Friendsgiving without...you know...friends. Whether it’s your friends at school or your friends from home, it’s always important to take some time to appreciate them, show them you love them, and take this time of year to celebrate your friendships! 

There you have it! Regardless if you get together with your friends or not, perhaps shoot them a text, give them a call, and just tell them you’re thankful for them. It never hurts to show some love.