Friendsgiving, a tradition centered on gratitude, good food, and community, brings students together with friends, not family, before Thanksgiving break. The smell of fresh desserts and savory dishes fills the air – a moment to celebrate meaningful connections.
The celebration emerged in the early 2000s as young adults sought a way to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends before traveling home for the holiday. By 2010, Friendsgiving had gained popularity as social media became increasingly popular, showcasing potlucks, decorations, and group celebrations. Once a casual gathering, it is now a popular tradition among young adults each November, blending friendships, food, and gratitude.
Junior Olivia Dib, who hosts Friendsgiving each year, said the holiday strengthens the relationships she values most. “The hardest thing about hosting is helping people get along, but this holiday helps build connections among people I am thankful for,” Dib said.
Friendsgiving usually takes place a week or two before Thanksgiving break, or sometimes after. Guests bring favorite dishes to share, creating a potluck of creativity and culture. Every dish tells a part of someone’s story. Junior Victoria Piñeres, who attended a Friendsgiving this year, said it’s a tradition her friends and she look forward to every year.
“We have a tradition of making pizookies, a cookie dessert topped with ice cream,” Piñeres said.
Beyond the food, Friendsgiving is about community, often featuring activities like gratitude boards, or group games and photos filled with inside jokes and memories.
History teacher and senior class moderator Thais Sanchez said her Friendsgiving looks very different from her family’s Thanksgiving. “My family has a big age range, so we always end up separating, but with my friends, we all bond together in the same room,” Sanchez said.
Between classes, homework, and busy schedules, Friendsgiving offers students a valuable moment to slow down and reconnect. It is a reminder that friendship is something to be thankful for, not just during the holiday season, but throughout the year.
Friendsgiving highlights that gratitude thrives in small acts of kindness, such as shared meals, small gestures, and meaningful moments when friends become chosen family.
