Friendsgiving

Friendsgiving Is The New Thanksgiving - But Better

Thanksgiving tops many people’s ‘Favorite Holidays’ lists, and rightly so. Think about it: It puts the focus on food, quality time spent with loved ones, more food and a short but much-needed break from work. It’s irrefutably an all-around win. 

True, there are some downsides. Spending hours going through airport security, driving cross-country or fighting your way onto an overheated coach isn’t exactly the best way to get into the spirit of giving thanks, unless dealing with hordes of frenzied people is your idea of a fun time. (I really hope it’s not.)

This year, why not change things up and embrace a new concept? We give you — drum roll, please — Friendsgiving. 

Chances are, you've heard of it — hell, you might have already experienced a Friendsgiving party in the past, or gotten an invite to one this year. If not, let us break it down for you: It's celebrating Thanksgiving with your friends rather than traveling back home to see your family. Simple.  

What’s more, starting your own new Thanksgiving tradition will allow you to take major liberties in the kitchen. (Besides, cranberry sauce will probably be sold out anyway.) This year, you can spice up your turkey weekend by serving unexpected dishes instead. Throw some exotic ingredients into the mix, like edamame, quinoa, jalapeño or Asian noodles — or serve the best damn burgers you've ever made and throw in organic quinoa for your most hipster friends.

We recommend you give your guests options (and have delicious leftovers for days) by trying these unexpected Turkey-free Thanksgiving recipes, which include Mexican flavors, an entire duck and even cranberry-infused tequila.