How to Host an Epic Friendsgiving

November 15, 2024

Whether you’re staying in town or planning a Friendsgiving gathering with your favorite people, why not make this Thanksgiving memorable?

Hosting a Friendsgiving at your apartment is the perfect way to celebrate with friends who can’t make it home for the holiday.

Here are some fun, easy tips to make your Friendsgiving unforgettable!

Two female students clink glasses, smiling in their stylish apartment.


1. Plan Ahead Like a Pro

Start planning a couple of weeks in advance. The sooner you coordinate schedules and meal ideas with your friends, the smoother things will go. Check if your friends are available and see who’s up for bringing what – this way, everyone has something to look forward to!


2. Choose the Perfect Spot

For a cozy feel, host in your apartment! But if space is tight, see if you can reserve a common area at The Seasons. A bigger space can make it feel like a real holiday event and leaves more room for everyone to spread out and relax.


A four-seat island, fully furnished living room, and a peek into a private bedroom at The Seasons.


3. Make Your Guest List Count

Invite friends who are staying in town for the break and can’t travel home. Keep it inclusive and laid-back – Friendsgiving is all about coming together to enjoy good food and good company!


4. Divvy Up the Dishes

An easy way to keep everyone involved and the menu varied is to assign each guest a dish. Think appetizers, sides, desserts, and drinks. It’s also a budget-friendly way to keep things low-cost for everyone. Plus, a little potluck spirit makes it more fun and less stressful for the host.


5. Add a Fall Vibe

A few simple decorations can totally transform your space! Think mini pumpkins, candles, and fall-colored tablecloths. You don’t have to go overboard – a touch of autumn ambiance goes a long way.


A mix of sunflowers, roses, daisies, and carnations with a rustic candle holder.


6. Set the Mood with Music

Create a playlist that fits the Thanksgiving vibe. You could mix in some fall favorites, mellow acoustic tunes, and a few holiday classics to keep the energy up as you all eat and hang out.


7. Bring Out the Games

Make things even more memorable with a few activities. Bring out board games, cards, or even create a Thanksgiving-themed trivia game. It’s a fun way to unwind and get some laughs after the big meal!



Friendsgiving Menu Ideas

Here are a few easy, crowd-pleasing recipes to try:

  • Roast Turkey Breast: Perfect for smaller groups. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs, then roast until it’s golden and juicy.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Just boil, mash, and mix with butter, roasted garlic, milk, salt, and pepper.
  • Cranberry Sauce: Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and zest until it thickens.
  • Pumpkin Pie: Grab a store-bought crust and fill it with canned pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and condensed milk.
  • Non-Alcoholic Punch: Mix one liter of fresh fruit juice into a large punchbowl. Add 2 liters of your favorite lemon/lime soda). Scoop in a pint of your favorite fruit sorbet (for a festive drink.



Sample Menu for a Balanced Feast

  • Appetizers: Cheese and crackers, veggie platter with dip, and deviled eggs.
  • Main Dish: Roast turkey breast (or substitute with chicken).
  • Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and stuffing.
  • Desserts: Pumpkin pie, apple crisp, and a mix of cookies.
  • Drinks: Non-alcoholic punch, sparkling water, and non-alcoholic cider.



Bonus: Tips to Make Your Friendsgiving a Success

  • Budget-Friendly Planning: Make sure everyone’s dish fits within their budget – it’s more about fun and less about fancy ingredients.
  • Check for Dietary Needs: Ask about any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance so everyone has something they can enjoy.
  • Leftover Plans: Set out a few containers so everyone can take home a taste of the feast!


With a little bit of planning and creativity, your Friendsgiving at The Seasons will be a heartwarming way to celebrate the season.


Resident Event: Friendsgiving at Wok and Roll
Come together with your neighbors to a Seasons’ Friendsgiving! Join us on November 14th, 11am-1:30pm at Wok and Roll Tucson. Please RSVP by calling the office, or coming to the office, and adding your name to the list. 


About The Seasons Apartments: The Seasons Apartments offer affordable, luxury living spaces designed specifically for students. With top-notch amenities and a prime location near the University of Arizona, it’s the perfect place to call home during your college years.

Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook for more tips and updates.


#WildcatLiving #BackToSchool #TheSeasonsTucson


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