Friendsgiving: It's Thanksgiving’s cooler, more laid-back cousin. Forget the family drama, the endless toasts, and the pressure to cook like a Michelin-star chef. Friendsgiving is all about celebrating with the people who chose to put up with your quirks (and who probably owe you a favor). If you want to host a Friendsgiving for the ages—one your friends will still be talking about next year—here’s your hilarious, foolproof game plan for food, drinks, decorations, and games. Let’s make this the Friendsgiving of legends.
1. The Feast: Food Worth Fighting Over
No Friendsgiving is complete without some serious grub. It’s a potluck, so get everyone involved; the more eclectic the dishes, the better. Here’s a lineup for a legendary spread:
- The Host’s Contribution: You’re the host, so you’re doing the turkey—or at least, ordering one. But let's be real, roasting a whole bird is a high-stakes game. If you don't trust yourself, just get a rotisserie chicken. Your friends will thank you for keeping it low-key.
- Side Dishes: This is where the fun starts. Assign each friend a “dish theme” and watch the chaos unfold. “Spicy side” could turn into ghost pepper mac and cheese (if your friend takes you too literally). Or, for “holiday twist,” get ready for sweet potato-stuffed dumplings. Keep a couple of fire extinguishers handy.
- Desserts: Now, Friendsgiving is supposed to be fun, but let's be honest: if someone shows up with a half-hearted pumpkin pie from the grocery store, you have the right to deny entry. We’re talking creative desserts here—maybe some bourbon pecan pie bars, or even a classic chocolate fountain. Nothing says friendship like sticky fingers and chocolate-streaked smiles.
Pro Tip: Have a Leftover Plan
Remember, these friends have other Friendsgivings to attend (it’s basically the adult version of trick-or-treating). Send them home with leftovers, but make it fun. Think quirky takeout containers, or better yet, an assembly line of weird combo plates for everyone to nosh on at 2 a.m.
2. Drinks: Keep ‘Em Flowing, Keep ‘Em Festive
A Friendsgiving party without drinks? Absolutely not. Here’s your strategy to keep spirits high:
- Thanksgiving-Themed Cocktails: Whip up some concoctions like “Cranberry Chaos” (vodka, cranberry juice, and just enough soda to make it dangerous) and “Apple Pie Punch” (a blend of spiced rum, apple cider, and cinnamon). These will warm your friends’ hearts and their cheeks.
- Wine and Beer Bar: Give people options. Make a sign that says "Welcome to Friendsgiving Happy Hour, where the only limit is how fast you can pour.” Have reds, whites, and at least one ridiculous seasonal beer. Bonus points if you serve it all out of a big ol’ pumpkin.
- Mocktails for the Sober Crew: Don't forget to whip up a zero-proof masterpiece. Try a fall-inspired fizz with pomegranate juice, tonic water, and rosemary sprigs. Garnish it like a pro so it looks like it belongs on the 'Gram. Because yes, sober friends deserve beautiful drinks too.
Check out these tips on homemade cocktails you can do to take your party to the next level.
Pro Tip: The “One Too Many” Station
Set up a hydration station with water, electrolyte packets, and maybe some aspirin for those who got too excited about the Apple Pie Punch. Call it the "Preemptive Hangover Bar." Your future selves will thank you.
3. Decorations: Set the Scene (Without Going Full Martha Stewart)
Let’s be honest, your friends aren’t here for elaborate centerpieces, but a little flair goes a long way. Here’s the lowdown on quick, hilarious decor that won’t break the bank or your spirit.
- DIY Centerpieces: Grab a few mini pumpkins and write your friends’ names on them with a Sharpie (extra points if you roast them after for pumpkin seeds). Scatter fake fall leaves, pine cones, or even some quirky items like tiny rubber turkeys. The weirder, the better.
- Disposable Everything: Avoid dishes like the plague. Use eco-friendly, compostable plates that look kinda fancy but require zero cleanup. If you really want to impress, get themed napkins with cheesy quotes like “Stuffed and Loving It” or “Gobble Till You Wobble.”
- Mood Lighting: Lights are essential to making everyone look a bit better after a few glasses. String up some fairy lights and maybe a candle or two. Avoid scented ones, though; you want your Friendsgiving to smell like food, not cinnamon overload.
Pro Tip: Photo Backdrop for the Win
Set up a DIY photo booth corner with a leafy garland, silly props (turkey hats are a must), and maybe a sign that reads “Friendsgiving 2023: Calories Don’t Count.” Make sure to capture every moment so you can remind everyone later.
4. Games: Competitive Friendships Are the Best Friendships
Food’s good, the drinks are flowing, and everyone’s loosening up—now’s the perfect time to start some games that’ll keep everyone laughing (and possibly oversharing). Here’s how to up the fun factor:
- Friendsgiving Bingo: Make bingo cards with squares like “Someone complains about politics,” “Casserole dropped on the floor,” and “Drunk group sing-along.” The winner gets a bottle of wine and bragging rights for the next year.
- Two Truths and a Turkey: Think “Two Truths and a Lie,” but with a holiday twist. Ask each person to say two true things about Thanksgiving memories and one outrageous lie. The lie has to be Friendsgiving-themed; it’s harder than it sounds after a few cocktails.
- Turkey Hunt: Hide tiny plastic turkeys around the house. Whoever finds the most wins a ridiculous prize, like leftover stuffing or the privilege of taking home all the dirty dishes.
Pro Tip: Keep the Pace Fast and Furious
Nobody wants a game that drags. Set a timer and keep it moving. Also, avoid games that require too much sitting—get people moving to avoid that post-turkey food coma.
Final Touch: The Friendsgiving Playlist
Curate a playlist that captures the vibe of Friendsgiving: a little nostalgic, a little ridiculous, and a lot of fun. Think 90s throwbacks, indie hits, and maybe even a few questionable songs everyone secretly loves. At some point, someone will inevitably request “Friends in Low Places,” and you’ll all belt it out like a choir of off-key angels.
Don’t forget, Lauderhill Mall is your go-to for all your Friendsgiving essentials! From decor to last-minute groceries, we’ve got everything you need to make Friendsgiving a memorable, hilarious success.
