How to Organize a Friendsgiving as an International Student (Step-by-Step Guide)
Can’t go home for Thanksgiving this year?
You’re not alone, and that’s exactly why Friendsgiving exists. 🧡
Friendsgiving is a relaxed, cozy celebration where you gather your closest friends, share good food, watch movies, and create your own version of Thanksgiving… without needing to cook a full turkey or host a huge dinner.
Here’s how to plan a budget-friendly, meaningful Friendsgiving that feels warm, fun, and unforgettable.
1. Create the Guest List (Small Is Better)
Friendsgiving works best with 4–12 people.
It keeps things cozy, affordable, and easy to organize, especially in a dorm or student apartment.
Invite:
International students who can’t travel home
Neighbors or classmates you want to get closer to
Friends who love cozy vibes + good food
Send a quick group chat invite so everyone feels included early.
2. Go Potluck Style (Everyone Brings One Dish)
This is the easiest, fairest, and most affordable way to host.
Instead of one person doing everything, create a shared list:
Traditional Thanksgiving ideas:
Mashed potatoes
Stuffing
Cranberry sauce
Turkey or rotisserie chicken
Mac and cheese
Apple pie or pumpkin pie
Untraditional but fun ideas:
Your favorite comfort food from home
Pasta bake
Rice dishes
Dumplings
Falafel or wraps
Cookies or brownies
Let people pick ONE dish to avoid duplicates and avoid stress.
3. Set the Vibe With Under-$10 Decor
You don’t need fancy centerpieces.
Use things you already have:
String lights
A candle (or LED candle in dorms)
A fall-themed tablecloth from Dollar Tree
Mini pumpkins
Cozy blankets and pillows
This instantly makes your space feel warm and homey.
4. Play a Cozy Movie or Background Playlist
Perfect Friendsgiving movies:
The Holiday
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Knives Out
Gilmore Girls (episodes)
Enchanted
Or play a “Cozy Autumn Jazz” playlist on YouTube or Spotify for ambience.
The goal is a relaxed, cozy atmosphere, not a formal dinner.
5. Add the Most Important Moment: Gratitude
Friendsgiving is built around the idea of appreciating the people around you.
Before you eat, go around the room and have everyone share:
One thing they’re grateful for
One memory from the semester
One thing they’re looking forward to
It’s wholesome, bonding, and makes the night feel meaningful.
6. Don’t Stress About Perfection
Your table doesn’t need to look like Pinterest.
Your food doesn’t need to be gourmet.
Your apartment doesn’t need to be spotless.
Friendsgiving is about connection, comfort, and community, especially when you’re far from home.
Make it simple. Make it warm. Make it yours. 🤍
Share with your Friendsgiving crew 👯♀️
