By: Dihandra Wiliams
Q News
29 November 2020
Not many things can beat the feeling of sitting around a table of great food surrounded by great people.
This pretty much sums up the atmosphere at a successful Friendsgiving! This also probably explains why this "new" gathering has become such a popular tradition for younger generations in recent years.
To some people, Friendsgiving is the perfect opportunity for them to have a good time with the people of their choice, without the usual stressors that oftentimes come with the Thanksgiving holiday.
So, What is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving is a combination of two words. Friends and Thanksgiving. This made-up term can be defined as a gathering of close friends with the intent of getting into the Thanksgiving spirit. Statics have shown that it is more likely for individuals within Generation Z to celebrate this holiday, but it's pretty common for millennials to do so as well.
Considering that this gathering is so new, there aren't too many rules or traditions when it comes to how this gathering is spent. Friendsgiving is totally customizable which contributes to its uniqueness. If you want your to meal to consist of takeout or traditional home-cooked holiday foods, that's totally up to you!
"For the past two years, my friends and I have had a Friendsgiving, and considering everything that's going on in the world right now, I was especially grateful to have one this year," says Shiann Smith a junior at East Carolina University. "None of us can cook, but it's just fun to buy food and make memories with some of my closest friends," said Smith.
This year Smith and her friends went as far as creating a Google Doc to ensure that between herself and her 9 friends no one brought the same dish.
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When did Friendsgiving Start?
According to a Facebook post, the earliest usage of the term "Friendsgiving" can be dated back to January 2007, but some people credit the hit TV show Friends for originally inspiring this fun concept. Some other theories suggest that a campaign put together by Baileys Irish Cream used the word first. All and all since then, this informal holiday has been around and will be around for a while.
When is Friendsgiving?
While some choose to celebrate Friendsgiving prior to gathering with their families before the Thanksgiving holiday many celebrate after as well. Last week, High Point University hosted a Friendsgiving gathering in the Cafè! This gathering included turkey, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and a variety of mini desserts.
The Cafè even went as far as including decorations to get into the holiday spirit. With mini pumpkins, fall leaves, and acorns scattered across the cafeteria it was almost impossible to not appreciate the event.
"I honestly didn't know that our school was having a Friendsgiving in the Cafè, but I'm so glad I participated in it," said Daryn Joshua. "It gave me one last opportunity to spend some time with my friends before going back home for 2 months."
Tips for Hosting an Amazing Friendsgiving Feast
Mya Blythe is another Gen Zer who plans to celebrate Friendsgiving this year. Considering that this will be her fourth year hosting a gathering, she shared some tips to ensure that you have the most enjoyable experience.
1. Allow every guest to pick what they want to bring
2. Set a price limit- you don't have to spend a lot to have a fun
3. Don't forget utensils
4. Bring board games/ card games
5. Share what you're thankful for
TikTok Video credit: Mya Blythe
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