How to Plan Your First Friendsgiving Dinner Party (7 Easy Steps)

So you’ve decided to host your very first Friendsgiving dinner party? Love that for you.

Friendsgiving is all about gathering your favorite people, eating good food, and making cozy fall memories without the stress of a “formal” holiday vibe. The trick? Timing. 

If you follow this step-by-step plan, you’ll pull off a seamless (and Instagram-worthy) Friendsgiving without the panic.

Shop My Friendsgiving Hosting Favorites List Below👇

DISCLOSURE: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

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1. Three Weeks Before: Pick the Date & Vibe

• Choose a date that works before or after Thanksgiving week.

• Decide on your vibe: cozy candlelit dinner, casual potluck, or Pinterest-ready tablescape.

• Create a group chat or digital invite with the theme, dress code, and what you’ll provide.

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2. Two Weeks Before: Plan the Menu & Delegate

• Don’t cook everything yourself. Assign dishes—apps, mains, sides, desserts.

• If you’re hosting in a small space, think buffet-style or grazing table.

• Order any décor (cute table runners, themed paper plates, wine glasses) so they arrive on time.

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3. One Week Before: Grocery List & Playlist

• Make a full shopping list (don’t forget ice, foil pans, and to-go containers).

• Curate a Friendsgiving playlist—mix cozy fall acoustic with upbeat classics.

• Double-check RSVPs so you know how many seats, plates, and drinks you need.

Shop My Friendsgiving List Below – Every item you'll need to plan, prep, and party without the chaos.

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4. Two to Three Days Before: Shop & Set the Scene

• Grocery shop now to avoid last-minute stress.

• Prep what you can early: pies, cranberry sauce, or pre-chopped veggies.

• Stage your dining space—set the table, string lights, and lay out candles so it feels festive.

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5. Day Before: Cook Ahead & Clean

• Make dishes that reheat well (casseroles, mac & cheese, stuffing).

• Tidy up your space—bathroom, kitchen counters, and entryway especially.

• Chill drinks so they’re cold by tomorrow.

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6. Friendsgiving Day: Host Like a Pro

• Start cooking your main dish in the morning (turkey, ham, or plant-based star).

• Light candles, queue up your playlist, and put out snacks as guests arrive.

• Keep the vibe relaxed—laughs, pictures, and second helpings are mandatory.

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7. After Dinner: Share the Love

• Send guests home with leftovers (foil pans = lifesaver).

• Snap group pics and drop them in the chat so everyone has the memories.

• Pour yourself a glass of wine and pat yourself on the back—you nailed it.

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Final Word

Hosting your first Friendsgiving doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a little planning (and a lot of vibes), you’ll create the kind of dinner party your friends will talk about all season. 🥂

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🛒 Amazon Shopping List

DISCLOSURE: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

1. Hosting Décor & Setup

• Rustic Table Runner, Fall Theme

• LED String Lights, Warm White

• Unscented Pillar Candles, Set of 6

• Elegant Plastic Wine Glasses (Reusable)

2. Kitchen & Serving Essentials

• Disposable Foil Pans with Lids (Pack of 10)

• Serving Utensil Set – Stainless Steel

• Large Ice Bucket for Parties

• Reusable To-Go Containers with Lids

3. Kitchen Prep & Storage

• Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids

• Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil Roll

• Pre-Chopped Veggie Storage Bowls

4. Ambiance & Entertainment

• Bluetooth Speaker – Compact & Stylish

• Fall Scented Candle Set

• Friendsgiving Playlist Cards or Game Deck

5. Host’s Self-Care After the Party

• Stemless Wine Glass Set

• Cozy Throw Blanket for Your Wind-Down