Friendsgiving, a portmanteau of “friends” and “Thanksgiving,” denotes a gathering celebrated with friends, usually around a meal similar to that of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. The temporal aspect of this gathering is not fixed to the official Thanksgiving Day. Rather, the scheduling is flexible and determined by the participants’ availability, often occurring either before or after the national holiday. Therefore, determining the specific date for this festivity requires consideration of individual schedules and preferences.
The growing popularity of this event stems from its ability to provide individuals with a chosen family celebration, especially for those who may be geographically separated from their biological families or who desire an additional celebratory event. It allows for the establishment of new traditions and fosters a sense of community among friends. The emphasis on shared experience and communal contribution, such as potluck-style meals, enhances the overall sense of togetherness. Historically, the increase in these gatherings has been correlated with greater mobility and evolving social structures.
