During Thanksgiving week, many young adults across the country prepared for a similar celebration of thanks popularly called “Friendsgiving.” Usually celebrated throughout the Thanksgiving season, Friendsgiving allows for people to connect with friends before traveling home for the holidays.
According to the Meriam-Webster dictionary, Friendsgiving is a large meal that is shared among friends during the Thanksgiving season. Friendsgiving rose to prominence in 2007, and has grown into a tradition that many Rattlers use to connect with friends before the holidays.
“We don’t have much time throughout the semester to hang out with one another because of school and work,” Tahmar Moreau, a senior psychology major, said. “We usually have it the day after Thanksgiving to allow everyone time to spend with their family.”
Friendsgiving is a tradition that can be celebrated by groups both small and large, with some students using it as a potluck to explore the cultural differences that may be present in friend groups. While others see the time as a way to connect with one another over a meal.
“The friends we make here at FAMU are our families away from home, so it is important to stop and spend time with the people that you are thankful for.” Vanessa Joseph, a sophomore biology/pre-med student, said. “Friendsgiving is a great bonding experience with friends and definitely a tradition that I plan to keep.”
Many students who are unable to go home during the Thanksgiving holiday enjoy the benefits of having Friendsgiving. They are able to connect with friends on a holiday they would have otherwise had to spend alone.
“Those who are unable to go home on Thanksgiving usually throw a Friendsgiving dinner instead on the day of in order to make sure that whoever is still in town is able to get a meal,” Christioni Robinson, a junior psychology major, said. “The last Friendsgiving I attended had about 4-5 people and we all really enjoyed ourselves.”
The holiday season is about coming together and appreciating those around us. Friendsgiving further personifies those ideals ideas by asking participants to celebrate with those individuals who make your life greater each and every day or those who you may not get to see as often for a meal and great times.