What is ‘friendsgiving’ and when is it celebrated?

Gathering around the table with friends and expressing gratitude for the support, happiness, and memories they bring into your life is a wonderful experience. Friendsgiving is an opportunity for just that. In recent years, it has become an increasingly popular celebration in addition to the traditional Thanksgiving, which is typically celebrated with family.

Originally, Friendsgiving began among millennials who were not interested in going home for the holidays and instead chose to celebrate with their friends. For some, Friendsgiving is the only event they will attend, while others also make time for Thanksgiving with their families.

When is Friendsgiving typically celebrated?

There is no official date, but many friend groups often opt for the Wednesday before Thanksgiving or the Friday after. As an informal celebration, some groups schedule their meal the week before and after Thanksgiving, in case some of the invitees have to travel to attend Thanksgiving with their families.

Where did the term originate?

The term “Friendsgiving” was informally used in the early 2000s. However, according to Merriam-Webster, the word gained popularity in 2008 and 2009 when lifestyle writers started using it. It was only in 2011 when the word was used in a Bailey’s Irish Cream ad that its usage started to really boom.