Friendsgiving usually begins with a simple, quiet moment. Maybe the sun is setting, soft music is playing, and you’ve just lit the first candle. It’s that feeling of creating a warm space for people you love.
That’s the heart of what Friendsgiving is. It’s a chance to celebrate gratitude with your chosen family, with a flexible menu and a pace that is wonderfully relaxed.
This guide is here to show you exactly how a beautiful Friendsgiving comes together, focusing on the feeling just as much as the details.
Define Friendsgiving (A Clear Meaning) ❤️
To define Friendsgiving in simple terms, it’s a gathering shaped by the people who are there. This friendsgiving event often brings together friends, colleagues, or neighbors for a warm, low-pressure get-together. The location can be just about anywhere, from a backyard or park to a cozy beach bonfire.
Copyright © Photo by Picnic Makers
The meaning of Friendsgiving is all about connection. Some people even write it as ‘friends giving’ to highlight that spirit of generosity between friends.
To get started, you just need a few hosting essentials. See our picnic essentials for a simple, complete checklist.
Where Did Friendsgiving Originate? 🌍
So, where did Friendsgiving originate? The term first started showing up online and in pop culture back in the mid-2000s. What began as a casual plan for people who couldn’t travel for the holiday has since become a yearly tradition for many.
Copyright © Photo by Picnic Makers
It really took off in warm-weather cities where November evenings are still pleasant enough for an outdoor meal. The origin of Friendsgiving is rooted in real life. It was a practical and fun way for people to create their own holiday celebration.
When Is Friendsgiving (Friendsgiving Day)? 🗓️
When is Friendsgiving? Most people host their celebration on the weekend before Thanksgiving. Of course, some choose a day during the week of the holiday or even on Thanksgiving evening itself.
There is no official Friendsgiving day, so just pick a date that works for everyone’s travel plans and busy schedules.
Copyright © Photo by Picnic Makers
In places like Los Angeles and Orange County, the mild weather means an outdoor evening gathering is almost always an option. A good picnic planning checklist can help you sort out the timing and details.
The Friendsgiving Tablescape (Annotated) 🥂
A great Friendsgiving is all about the atmosphere. The tablescape sets the tone with soft layers, warm light, and a low setup that makes conversation easy. Here’s how to create that cozy setup for your outdoor Friendsgiving.
String Lights for Depth and Sparkle ✨
Hang two or three strands of string lights at slightly different heights. This creates a beautiful, layered glow. Always choose bulbs with a warm temperature.
They cast a soft light that makes everyone look and feel great. Keep them high enough to avoid any glare. See warm string lights for cozy Friendsgiving ambiance.
Low Picnic Tables for Easy Conversation 💬
Using low picnic tables for Friendsgiving helps keep sightlines open so everyone can talk easily. Add some comfortable floor cushions and a soft rug.
This relaxed seating encourages guests to settle in for longer, more meaningful chats. Keep any centerpieces under ten inches tall. Try low picnic tables for Friendsgiving.
Goblet Glasses That Work Double-Duty 🥂
To keep the look clean and simple, pick one style of goblet for both water and wine. Using consistent glassware elevates the table with fewer pieces to manage. It’s a small touch that makes Friendsgiving toasts and serving dessert feel more special. Ideas here: elegant goblet glasses for toasts.
LED Candles for a Safe, Luxe Glow 🕯️
Cluster a few LED candles of different heights inside glass holders for a steady, welcoming light. This candlelight for Friendsgiving gives you a beautiful glow without worrying about wind or safety. They will last the entire night, keeping the mood just right. Browse flameless LED candles.
Throw Blankets as Texture (and Warmth) ☁️
Place one throw blanket at each seat. A nice knit or waffle-weave blanket adds a tactile element and some cozy layers. Try to coordinate the blankets with your napkins or table runner. It’s an easy way to tie your whole color scheme together. See cozy picnic blankets.
Hosting Flow: From First Candle to Last Toast 🥂
Hosting Friendsgiving can be simple and stress-free. Think of your Friendsgiving gathering as moving through three easy parts. This helps the entire friendsgiving event unfold at a natural, comfortable pace for everyone.
Copyright © Photo by Picnic Makers
Before Guests Arrive 🫂
Right before people show up, light a candle and turn on a relaxed playlist. Set up a small drink station with water and a signature mocktail. This lets arrivals grab something to sip right away. Have a basket of blankets ready for anyone who might get chilly.
Suppose you plan a buffet, set out serving tools and trays now. Pre-stage a warming station so you can keep Friendsgiving dishes warm. Do a quick walk-through and clear pathways so the space stays easy to move through.
Dinner, Easy and Warm ❤️🔥
Serve the meal buffet-style on a sideboard or kitchen counter. This leaves the table open for plates, glasses, and great conversation. Simple labels for the main dishes and sides are a nice touch.
A big, bright salad always adds great color and freshness. Keep centerpieces low so people can talk across the table. For the first bites, try crowd-pleasing appetizers. For a sweet, no-fuss finish, set out simple desserts.
After Dinner 🥂
Once the meal is winding down, dim the lights a bit. You could invite someone to make a short, simple gratitude toast. A small photo corner with a fun backdrop is a great way to capture some memories. If people are still hanging out, you could bring out some party-friendly card games to keep the fun going.
Friendsgiving vs. Thanksgiving 💗
The main difference in the Friendsgiving vs Thanksgiving debate comes down to the vibe. Friendsgiving is all about being casual, while Thanksgiving can be more traditional. The menu is usually a potluck, and the seating might be informal with a low table instead of a formal dining setup.
Copyright © Photo by Picnic Makers
But the most important thing, gratitude, is at the heart of both celebrations. After dinner, keep energy easy with one light activity. Try these board games that everyone can play. Keep rules short and music soft so conversations continue naturally.
Make It Effortless (We’ll Style It for You) ❤️
Hosting on November 27th? We still have a few limited afternoon and sunset slots available. Let us handle the setup, styling, and cleanup so you can just show up and enjoy the party.
A backyard, park, or beach works perfectly for a Friendsgiving in Los Angeles and Orange County. We bring everything you need and pack it all up at the end. We can even help you find the best LA spots for outdoor Friendsgiving.
When you’re ready, we can help you book a Friendsgiving setup that fits your group perfectly.
FAQs
When is Friendsgiving typically hosted?
Most people host the weekend before Thanksgiving, but any Friendsgiving day that works for your group is perfect. To figure out when Friendsgiving is for your circle, just check everyone’s schedule and send an invite a few weeks out.
Is Friendsgiving a potluck or a full menu?
It can be either! A potluck is a popular choice because it lets everyone share the load. The host usually makes the main dish, and guests bring sides or desserts. A buffet setup makes serving easy.
Can Friendsgiving work outdoors?
Yes, an outdoor Friendsgiving is a fantastic idea, especially in LA and OC, where the weather is often mild. Just be sure to have plenty of warm blankets, string lights, and safe LED candles.
How is Friendsgiving different from Thanksgiving?
The biggest Friendsgiving vs Thanksgiving difference is the casual tone. Friendsgiving is flexible, often a potluck, with relaxed seating. Thanksgiving is typically more formal with family recipes. Both, however, are all about gratitude.
