Even if you don't have family around for the holidays, you don't have to spend it alone. In fact, many people opt to spend the day with friends to avoid the hot political climate that all too often erupts at family Thanksgiving gatherings.
Chances are, you're not the only one without family plans for Thanksgiving. Your friends, co-workers, neighbors, or acquaintances might also be spending the day alone. So, why not bring everyone together and hold a Friendsgiving?
Even if you spend Thanksgiving with family, Friendsgiving is so popular that many people have made Friendsgiving a new yearly tradition on Friday or Saturday so they can enjoy the holiday with some of their chosen family.
There are a lot of ways to do your Friendsgiving, which might depend, in part, on the size of your guest list. If it's only a couple of you, split the grocery list, then plan to cook together that day. You could also skip the hassle and enjoy dinner out at one of your favorite eateries. If you choose the latter for Thanksgiving day, make reservations well in advance.
If you're celebrating with several friends, a potluck might be best. Just plan everything ahead so the day will be a success without a ton of work and stress on your part. As the host, you might offer to do the Turkey or meat yourself. Then, ask each person to bring one or two specific types of sides, like a veggie dish. Ask them to let you know in advance what specifically they plan to bring so you don't have multiples of the same. You can assign a couple of other guests to bring dessert and another to bring dinner rolls and snacks.
For beverages, you could offer to supply soda. But ask everyone to bring their own alcoholic drinks. Or, if you know everyone likes beer or wine, ask each person to bring something to share so you can all enjoy tasting and a variety.
In addition to the day's main event – delicious food – you could also plan for some form of entertainment. Put together a variety of music to fit everyone's tastes. You could also play cards or games. If all your guests are football fans, it couldn't get any easier!
Whatever way you choose to spend your day this year, gather with gratitude and know the most important thing is you're in good company celebrating together.
Tablescape: LeAnn Parker with @Silvertoothhome
Charcuterie Board: Sarah Juenemann with GrazingKC
Wine: Amigoni Urban Winery
In addition to the day's main event – delicious food – you could also plan for some form of entertainment.