Wondering what to bring to Friendsgiving?
From delicious dishes to essential items, here are some simple ideas to make sure you’re prepared for this special occasion.
What to bring to Friendsgiving
What to Bring to a Friendsgiving Potluck
Friendsgiving is typically organized potluck-style, meaning each person brings a dish to share.
If you’re having or attending a Friendsgiving that’s potluck style and deciding what to bring, consider crowd-pleasers like mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and dips.
These classic dishes don’t require much fuss and can be prepared in large batches to feed the whole crew.
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Easy Foods That Don’t Require Cooking
If you’re short on time or just not in the mood to cook, there are plenty of no-cook options that will still impress your friends.
A charcuterie board with cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and fruits is always a crowd-pleaser. Or, go with a veggie platter featuring dips like hummus, ranch, or guacamole; perfect for a light bite before the main courses arrive.
Another simple idea is a seasonal fruit tray. If you’re really pressed for time, consider bringing a salad kit. Pre-packaged salads are super convenient, and you can add festive extras like cranberries or toasted nuts.
These no-cook options are quick to assemble on-site and perfect for a stress-free contribution!
What to Bring to a Friendsgiving Store-Bought
Sometimes, the easiest way to contribute is by grabbing something pre-made from the store.
Many grocery stores offer holiday-themed options like rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and even fully assembled sides.
These can be lifesavers if you have a busy schedule but still want to bring a quality dish.
And if you want to jazz it up even more, you can just transfer the food to a nice dish for a cute presentation.
Bake or Buy Desserts
Desserts are often the highlight of Friendsgiving, and bringing a sweet treat is sure to earn you some brownie points.
Baking a classic pumpkin pie, apple crumble, or batch of cookies is always a crowd-pleaser and makes for a cozy, homemade addition to the meal.
If you’re more comfortable with store-bought desserts, then pick up a cake or pie from your bakery section. You could also grab a selection of pastries or cookies for a little variety.
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Don’t Forget Drinks
Drinks are a crucial part of any gathering, and it’s always good to have a mix of options for everyone to enjoy.
For non-alcoholic choices, bring soda, juices, apple cider, or a festive punch.
If you want to include alcoholic beverages, wine is a popular option.
A bottle of red and a bottle of white should cover most people’s tastes, and maybe consider a rosé or a sparkling option for variety.
Bringing a bag of ice or a cooler for drinks might also be helpful if fridge space is limited.
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Essential Items: Napkins, Plates, and Utensils
Sometimes, the practical items are the most valuable things you can bring. Friendsgiving is all about sharing, and it’s easy to overlook essentials like napkins, plates, and cups.
If you’re bringing food, remember to include a serving spoon or utensil so everyone can easily help themselves.
If the host mentioned they’d like disposable plates, consider bringing some along with disposable utensils. Also, think about packing paper towels or cloth napkins to clean up any spills and keep everything tidy.
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Bring Some To-Go Plates
Friendsgiving often ends with leftovers, and everyone loves taking a little something home.
Bring a pack of to-go containers so everyone can grab a bit of their favorite dish for the next day.
This also helps the host by reducing the leftover food and avoiding the hassle of returning everyone’s Tupperware.
All in all, Friendsgiving is all about bringing people together, so the most important thing to bring is a positive attitude and a readiness to enjoy some quality time with friends.
If you’re nervous about what to bring, just remember that a mix of potluck foods, easy store-bought options, and essential items like plates and to-go containers will make a big difference.
So, pack up your favorite dish, grab those napkins and drinks, and get ready for a Friendsgiving to remember!
