What Is Friendsgiving? Friendsgiving is the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season—a gathering built around the people you choose. It’s a relaxed, potluck-style celebration that blends the comfort of Thanksgiving with the ease of a dinner party. No formal seating charts, no pressure, just good food and even better company.

Where It Started The word Friendsgiving first popped up in the early 2000s, but it really took off in the mid-2010s as more people began hosting their own pre-holiday get-togethers. What started as a quirky, young-adult tradition turned into a nationwide ritual for anyone who wanted a meaningful moment with their favorite people before the family bustle hits.

How It Works There are no rules—only invitations. We say, share from your abundance. The sentiment is giving, not consuming. Some hosts cook; others pick up takeout. Guests bring a dish, a bottle, or just themselves. It can happen the weekend before Thanksgiving, th…