Friendsgiving is the ultimate celebration of friendship, laughter, and all the delicious flavors of fall. It’s a time to gather around the table with your chosen family, savoring great food and raising a glass (or two) to the memories you’ve made together. While Thanksgiving is about tradition, Friendsgiving is all about creativity and fun, making it the perfect occasion to mix up exciting cocktails, play games, and showcase beautiful glassware that brings your table to life.

Set Up a DIY Cocktail Bar: Encourage your guests to get creative with a do-it yourself cocktail bar:

• Themed Ingredients: Choose fall-inspired ingredients like apple cider, cranberry juice, cinnamon sticks, fresh rosemary, and pear slices. Add spirits like vodka, bourbon, and gin, which pair well with autumn flavors.
• Recipe Cards: Provide recipe cards for a few signature cocktails like “Harvest Mule” or “Cranberry Smash” to guide guests in crafting their drinks.

America '20s 9.25 oz. Fizz Glass

 

Friendsgiving Potluck - with a Twist: Encourage each guest to bring a dish, but add a twist:

• Assigned Themes: Assign each guest a theme, such as “Thanksgiving Classics,” “Comfort Food,” or “Fall Veggies.” This keeps the spread varied and ensures a good balance of dishes.
• Signature Dish Showcase: Allow each guest a moment to introduce their dish and share why it’s special or if there’s a story behind it.

Create a Cozy, Autumn-Inspired Décor Setup: Transform your space with warm, inviting décor:

• Tablescape: Layer your table with fall-colored table runners, mini pumpkins, gourds, and eucalyptus sprigs.
• Ambient Lighting: Use string lights, candles, or lanterns to create a warm atmosphere. Dim lighting adds to the cozy, intimate vibe that Friendsgiving is all about.
• Seating Comfort: Add cozy touches like blankets over chairs and fluffy pillows for extra comfort. Friendsgiving is all about feeling at home with friends, so encourage a relaxed, homey setup.

Setting the Scene with the Right Glassware

Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a laid-back potluck, the right glassware brings a level of sophistication to the table. For Friendsgiving, each type of glass brings out the flavors in cocktails and wines while adding a touch of elegance. Here’s how to make the most of the following essential pieces:
Cocktail Coupe: A classic choice for vintage-inspired cocktails, it gives a refined feel to your drinks.

 

Bartender 8.5 oz. Novecento Cocktail Coupe

 

Stemless Wine Glasses: Perfect for a more casual, yet chic atmosphere, and they work well with both red and white wines.

 

Bodega 7.5 oz. Mini Drinking Glass

 

Multipurpose Wine Glasses: Versatile and stylish, these can handle any wine you serve and keep your glassware selection simple yet effective.

 

Electra 14.75 oz. Medium Wine Glass

 

Sparkling Wine Flute: For that added sparkle, flutes are perfect for prosecco or any celebratory bubbly you want to include.

 

Exclusiva 8.5 oz. Prosecco or Sparkling Wine Flute

 

Martini Glass: Give your cocktails a sharp, chic look in these timeless glasses that add elegance to every sip.

 

America '20s 8.25 oz. Martini Glass

 

Games and Activities: Friendsgiving is about creating memories, so plan a few interactive activities:

• Thankfulness Circle: Go around the table and share one thing each person is thankful for, making it light-hearted or funny. It’s a simple, meaningful way to connect.
• Trivia Game: Prepare a trivia game about each guest’s favorite foods, funny stories, or Thanksgiving history. Offer small prizes for the winners.
• Photo Booth: Set up a cozy, fall-themed photo booth with props like faux turkey legs, pilgrim hats, or funny signs. It’s a fun way to capture memories and add a bit of whimsy.

Final Toasts to Friendship

End the evening with a final toast, inviting everyone to share what they value most about the friendships at the table. It’s a heartfelt way to end Friendsgiving on a warm note, reminding everyone of the real reason behind the celebration. Each of these thoughtful touches, paired with elegant glassware and delicious drinks, makes this Friendsgiving a celebration that your friends will remember and cherish. Cheers!