As November began, more and more students turned to a tradition thats just as meaningful as Thanksgiving: Friendsgiving.

Friendsgiving proved to be a break with no stress from school and responsibilities. Whether it was fast food, desserts, or just mashed potatoes, the heart of the tradition stayed the same by celebrating with people who feel like family. It was a chance for teens to gather, relax, and celebrate with the people they chose.

Unlike Thanksgiving, which is often tied to doing things with your family, Friendsgiving gave students space to create their own traditions. It was flexible, fun, and entirely shaped by the people who attended. For many, the memories and time with friends was what makes it special. 

For many students, Friendsgiving has become a yearly thing that feels just as special as any family gathering.

“I love celebrating Friendsgiving with all my friends,” Mia Gobel, senior, said. “ If I could bring one food to Friendsgiving, I would bring a charcuterie board, with crackers, cheese, different meats, and fruit. I feel like that would be perfect for a big group of people.”

Gobel’s typical Friendsgiving is about eight people. “We all bring food, eat, then play different games and just talk about life,” she said.

The social aspect of Friendsgiving is what keeps students coming back each year. For some, it’s their only chance during the busy school year to spend a afternoon with their friends. Some enjoy how comfortable they can be with their friends. No adults, no assigned seating chart, and no rules. A time where you can eat whatever food you want and to not have a care.

Not everyone brings something fancy or elaborate. Some students stick with the classics.

“Ooh, I would bring mashed potatoes because they’re my favorite,” Maddie Gorman, senior, said.  “Foods like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and desserts tend to be the simplest and best dishes.”

“I love Friendsgiving. It’s a time when me and all my friends can get together and just eat a bunch of food. Me and my friends usually bring a different type of fast food and dessert. Then we talk and play games. It’s such a fun time, and I enjoy every part of it,” Sarina Fares, senior, said.

For a lot of teens, the mix of casual food, laughter, and connection was what made this celebration feel so comforting. 

As the tradition continues to grow, it’s clear that Friendsgiving is much more than just a meal. It’s a celebration of friendship, gratitude, and the small moment that bring people together. Whether someone is bringing a charcuterie board, a bowl of mashed potatoes, or a bag of fast food, what matter most is sitting around with the people you care about the most.