How To Plan a Fun and Meaningful Friendsgiving Gathering

Friendsgiving is all about celebrating the people who feel like family: your friends. It’s a chance to gather, eat good food, and make memories without the pressure of a traditional holiday event. Think of it as a potluck party with a purpose — to show gratitude for the amazing people in your life. Here’s how to plan a super fun and meaningful Friendsgiving gathering and be the best host you can be!

Get the Ball Rolling

First things first, you need to pick a date and time. Look at the calendar and find a weekend or evening that works for most of your group. Not sure how to start? 

Try out some of these ideas to organize and invite your friends:

• Start a group chat to discuss possible dates.

• Use a poll app to find the best time.

• Make a simple digital invitation with Canva or another app.

• Send out fun e-vites that match your Friendsgiving theme.

• Create a shared online calendar event for easy RSVPs.

Since you’re all busy, these tools make scheduling super simple and get everyone involved. Once you have a date, create a guest list. Remember, it’s about connection, not a huge crowd. As it says in Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Good friends help us grow, and this is a great way to honor those relationships.

Plan the Feast

One of the best parts of Friendsgiving is the food! The easiest way to handle the meal is to make it a potluck. You can provide the main dish, like the turkey or a ham, and ask everyone else to sign up for a side, dessert, or drinks. Create a shared list online so you don't end up with five green bean casseroles.

Here are some ideas for what others can bring:

• Mashed potatoes and gravy

• Stuffing or dressing

• Sweet potato casserole

• Cranberry sauce

• Dinner rolls

• Pumpkin or apple pie

This approach makes it less stressful for you and allows everyone to contribute their favorite dishes.

Set the Scene

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make your space feel warm and welcoming. Simple things can make a big difference.

Here are a few easy ideas to help set the perfect Friendsgiving scene:

• Use string lights or tea candles for cozy, soft lighting.

• Make a simple centerpiece with small pumpkins, colorful leaves, or mason jars filled with flowers.

• Set out extra chairs, bean bags, or even floor cushions so everyone has a seat.

• Arrange the table so people can see and talk to each other easily.

• Print out some fun napkin rings or place cards with everyone’s names.

• Put on a chill music playlist — acoustic, worship, lo-fi beats, or your group’s favorites.

The goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere where everyone can relax and enjoy each other's company. After all, "A cheerful heart is good medicine" (Proverbs 17:22a).

Focus on Gratitude

Beyond the food and fun, take a moment to be thankful. You could go around the table and have everyone share something they are grateful for. Or, you could set out a "gratitude jar" where guests can write down what they’re thankful for on slips of paper. At the end of the meal, you can read them aloud. It’s a simple way to remember the real reason for the season and to appreciate the gift of friendship at your Friendsgiving gathering!