How to

Host Friendsgiving

Maybe you aren’t heading home for Thanksgiving and you’re having Friendsgiving instead. Or, maybe you just want to spend some quality time with friends. Here’s how to start a new tradition or expand on one you already have. After all, friends are the family you choose.

Make Room for Everyone

From friendly neighbors to your coworker’s plus one, make sure there’s a place for everyone (and enough elbow room) at your Friendsgiving table. For a fancier affair, have place settings and name cards already out, or keep it casual and forego a seating chart altogether. Remember, there’s usually a friend or two that will forget to RSVP. Have a couple extra spaces ready for them, whether it’s floor pillows around a coffee table or stools at your home bar.

Delight with Decor

It’s the little touches that will go a long way in making your home feel extra festive. First, make an impression by decking out your front door. Greet your guests with wreaths and garlands in rich autumnal tones, or make them smile with a cheeky doormat. Then echo this decorating moment throughout your home. Make over your mantel with glass pumpkin cloches filled with twinkling lights and nestled among fall foliage, or pepper in some throw pillows that nod to the season.

Delegate, Delegate, Delegate

Friendsgiving is a group effort – but generally speaking, the host takes care of the ambiance and the main course. Get your friends to pitch in on all the sides, desserts and drinks. Write down the menu on a chalkboard for everyone to see and give credit where it’s due. Also, remind your guests to bring containers so they can make a take-home plate – if there is anything left!

Plan Fun Activities

Friendsgiving goes beyond the meal: it’s a time to unwind and reconnect with the group. Organize a fun activity to keep your guests entertained while you wait for the food to cook – like a darts tournament in the game room, whiskey tasting on the roof or tossing the football around out back. And always be ready with comfy throws and a holiday movie for post-turkey naps.

Curate a Playlist

Nothing sets the mood quite like music. Ask your friends to submit their current five favorite songs ahead of time and use the playlist as a conversation starter. After the meal is done, you can switch to Christmas radio. Enjoy!