Friendsgiving is one of the best inventions ever - it’s Thanksgiving’s laid-back, fun, and cozy cousin. Instead of stressing over a perfect turkey or worrying if Aunt Linda will comment on your mashed potatoes, Friendsgiving is about gathering your people, laughing until dessert, and sharing the holiday with those who make you feel at home.
And here’s the best part - it doesn’t have to be expensive! These 9 Frugal Friendsgiving Ideas are all about celebrating with heart, creativity, and comfort, without draining your wallet.
1. Make It a Potluck Party with Signature Dishes
The beauty of Friendsgiving is that no one expects you to carry the whole meal on your shoulders. Make it potluck style, where everyone brings their signature dish. Not only does it save money, but it also creates a feast full of personality!
My besty Deb does this brilliantly - she hosts Friendsgiving with her grown son, inviting past real estate clients, friends without family nearby, and anyone else who needs a seat at the table. Everyone contributes something special, and the table becomes a tapestry of food and friendship.
Example: Assign categories like appetizers, mains, desserts, and drinks so there’s balance without pressure.
2. DIY Friendsgiving Décor with Natural & Thrifted Touches
You don’t need pricey centerpieces to make your table glow. Gather pinecones, leaves, and branches for rustic charm, or raid the thrift store for candlesticks, trays, and cute seasonal mugs. The beauty of Friendsgiving décor is that it can be quirky, cozy, and meaningful rather than formal.
Example: A thrifted flannel scarf makes a perfect table runner, paired with mason jars filled with candles or dried flowers.
3. Skip the Turkey Drama - Try Chicken, Soup, or Veggie Mains
Let’s be honest: turkey can be expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. For Friendsgiving, give yourself permission to skip it! Roast chickens, a big pot of butternut squash soup, or a hearty vegetarian main dish can be just as festive - and way more budget-friendly.
Example: A roasted chicken with herbs and root vegetables feels just as cozy and celebratory (and at half the cost!)
4. Budget-Friendly Drinks with a Seasonal Twist
Instead of stocking a full bar, keep it simple with one or two seasonal drink options. A big batch of spiced apple cider (with an optional splash of bourbon for the grown-ups) or a pitcher of sangria with inexpensive wine and fall fruit keeps it festive and frugal.
Example: Ask each friend to bring their favorite bottle of wine - variety without the expense.
5. Cozy Seating & Creative Serving Without Buying New Stuff
No need to rent chairs or buy matching dishes. Mix and match what you have, borrow from a neighbor, or even create a cozy “floor picnic” corner with blankets and cushions for extra seating. Friendsgiving thrives on charm, not perfection.
Example: Use baskets or crates flipped upside down as side tables for drinks and snacks.
6. Heartfelt Friendsgiving Games & Gratitude Rituals
Forget expensive board games - create your own fun! Write prompts on slips of paper (like “Share your favorite childhood holiday memory”) or play “two truths and a lie: holiday edition.” Gratitude jars where each guest shares something they’re thankful for are free, meaningful, and spark the best conversations.
Example: Ask guests to write one thing they’re grateful for on a paper leaf and hang them on a little “gratitude tree” made from branches.
7. Build a Shared Playlist for Nostalgia & Fun
Instead of hiring entertainment, invite everyone to add a few songs to a shared playlist. You’ll end up with a mix that’s hilarious, nostalgic, and deeply personal. Plus, it costs nothing and makes for the best background vibe.
Example: Include a mix of cozy acoustic songs, classic hits from your group’s high school years, and a few seasonal favorites.
8. Leftover Swaps That Save Time & Money
Don’t let all that delicious food go to waste! Provide a stack of thrifted or dollar store containers and let everyone take home a little sampler. It saves money on meals the next day and spreads the Friendsgiving joy even further.
Example: Host a “leftover swap” where guests trade dishes so everyone goes home with something new.
9. Capture Memories with DIY Photo Fun
No need for a hired photographer or expensive photo booth setup. Just prop up your phone, use a free app timer, and add a few fun props from the dollar store or thrift shop. The goal is laughter and memories, not picture-perfect glamour shots.
Example: Create a simple backdrop with a thrifted sheet and string lights for an instant cozy photo corner.
Conclusion
Friendsgiving is proof that abundance isn’t about money - it’s about love, laughter, and sharing life with the people who matter. From potluck spreads to thrifted décor, gratitude rituals, and leftover swaps, these frugal ideas help you celebrate without the stress or the splurge. So gather your gals, pour the cider, and make this Friendsgiving one to remember!
Here are some more great articles that you might love:
- 13 Nostalgic Foods We Didn’t Know Were Frugal Growing Up
- Thanksgiving Quotes To Use For Art Journals
- Thanksgiving and Fall Junk Journal - Free Printable
