15 Gathered Friendsgiving Party Ideas

Planning the ultimate fall get-together with your favorite people? These Friendsgiving Party Ideas are just what you need to create a cozy, laughter-filled evening without stress. Whether you’re throwing a casual potluck or a styled dinner with all the trimmings, this list has everything—from creative decor to fun games and delicious food ideas. Make this year’s Friendsgiving more about connection, comfort, and gratitude with thoughtful details your guests will love.

Friendsgiving Party Ideas

Looking for fun and cozy Friendsgiving Party Ideas? Whether you’re hosting your first gathering or your annual tradition, these ideas will make your celebration feel warm, joyful, and unforgettable.

DIY Pie Bar

Let everyone build their dream dessert with a make-your-own pie station.

• Offer mini pie crusts or tart shells
• Set out fillings like pumpkin, apple, or chocolate
• Add toppings like whipped cream, caramel, or nuts

Friendsgiving Photo Booth

Capture the memories with a cute photo corner everyone will love.

• Use a fall-themed backdrop with leaves or plaid
• Add props like pilgrim hats and thankful signs
• Include instant print photos or a shared album

Thankful Card Exchange

Make gratitude part of the celebration in a personal way.

• Have guests write cards saying why they’re thankful for one another
• Place them in envelopes or a gratitude jar
• Pass them out during dessert

Cozy Potluck Style Dinner

Take the pressure off the host and let everyone contribute a dish.

• Assign categories like mains, sides, desserts, or drinks
• Label dishes with name cards
• Provide warming trays or crockpots

Personalized Place Cards

Add a thoughtful touch to the table with custom place settings.

• Use mini pumpkins, leaves, or cinnamon sticks
• Write each guest’s name in gold or metallic pens
• Tie with ribbon or twine for charm

Fall-Themed Drink Station

Warm up your guests with a seasonal beverage setup.

• Offer apple cider, mulled wine, or spiced hot chocolate
• Include cinnamon sticks, whipped cream, and flavored syrups
• Decorate with a chalkboard menu

Pumpkin Centerpiece Crafting

Turn table decor into a fun pre-dinner activity.

• Provide mini pumpkins, paint pens, and glitter
• Let guests create their own centerpiece
• Use them as take-home gifts afterward

Friendsgiving Trivia

Break the ice and bring on the laughter with a themed game.

 

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• Create trivia questions about fall, food, or your friend group
• Use a whiteboard or game app to keep score
• Offer a small prize for the winner

DIY S’mores Bar

End the night with sweet, melty fun.

 

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• Use a tabletop burner or s’mores maker
• Set out graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate
• Add fun extras like peanut butter cups or flavored marshmallows

Cozy Blanket Pile

Encourage guests to get comfy and stay awhile.

• Toss cozy throws and pillows on chairs or the floor
• Set up a fireside seating area or movie space
• Perfect for after-dinner lounging

Friendsgiving Bingo

Make mingling more fun with a themed bingo game.
• Include squares like “brought a pie” or “wore plaid”
• Offer small fall-themed prizes
• Great icebreaker for newer guests

Potluck Awards

Add a playful twist to your dinner with friendly food awards.
• Create categories like “Most Comforting Dish” or “Best Presentation”
• Use mini certificates or medals
• Let everyone vote anonymously

Pumpkin Spice Taste Test

Host a blind taste test of pumpkin spice goodies!
• Include cookies, cereal, drinks, and snacks
• Have guests guess what each item is
• Reveal the answers at the end

Gratitude Tree

Invite guests to share what they’re thankful for in a beautiful visual way.
• Use a small branch in a vase as your “tree”
• Provide paper leaves and pens
• Let guests hang their thankful notes on the branches

DIY Fall Candle Station

Let guests create their own custom candle to take home.
• Provide small jars, wax melts, and fall scents
• Add labels for names or messages
• Wrap with twine for a rustic finish

Thankful Card Exchange

Make gratitude part of the celebration in a personal way. It’s a heartwarming way to remind everyone why they matter, especially during a season centered around appreciation.
• Have guests write cards saying why they’re thankful for one another
• Place them in envelopes or a gratitude jar
• Pass them out during dessert or the closing toast
• Display cards on a string with clothespins for guests to pick up

FAQ

What is Friendsgiving, and how is it different from Thanksgiving?

Friendsgiving is a casual, often potluck-style celebration of Thanksgiving with your friends instead of (or in addition to) family. It’s usually less formal and more relaxed, with a focus on food, laughter, and quality time with chosen family.

When is the best time to host a Friendsgiving party?

Most Friendsgiving parties happen in early to mid-November, usually the weekend before Thanksgiving. However, there are no strict rules—it can be held anytime in the fall that works for you and your friends.

What kind of food should be served at a Friendsgiving?

Traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes are always welcome, but Friendsgiving can be as creative or casual as you like. Many hosts go for potluck-style meals where everyone brings a favorite dish, appetizer, or dessert.

How can I make my Friendsgiving feel special on a budget?

Use what you already have, shop seasonal decor at Dollar Tree or thrift stores, and keep things cozy with DIY touches. Simple ideas like handwritten place cards, a gratitude jar, or a pie bar can create a warm and memorable vibe without spending much.

Do I need to decorate for Friendsgiving?

Not necessarily, but a few fall-themed touches can really enhance the mood. Think mini pumpkins, candles, string lights, or even a simple plaid table runner. A cozy, welcoming space makes guests feel instantly at home.