Why a Millennial “Friendsgiving” Is Worth Traveling For

Millennials can be to blame for many things – the execution of skinny jeans (R.I.P) or the over-consumption of avocado toast, for instance, but we must give credit to at least one great thing they’ve embraced and made their own – the Millennial Friendsgiving.

The invention of Friendsgiving

Remember the ‘90s hit sitcom, Friends? With episodes chronicling the NYC urban adventures of six friends, the show never ceased to highlight the importance of Friendsgiving, or a gathering of friends on or around Thanksgiving to celebrate love, togetherness, and food. Though the show never used the term officially, showcasing the holiday was enough to help jumpstart the Friendsgiving trend.

Then recently, in early 2020, Merriam-Webster officially added “Friendsgiving” to the dictionary, recognizing this informal holiday, and it seems that every Millennial is either hosting or attending a Millennial Friendsgiving. Got an invite, but not sure if it’s worth traveling for? Here’s why you should honor and celebrate it.

Chosen family and the new definition of family

Sometimes, you can’t make the trip to see your family, or maybe seeing your family for Thanksgiving is way too stressful. Whatever the reason, your chosen family, or friends, are there for you. With your chosen family, comes the ability to be your truest self. As journalist Rebecca Ros, eloquently put it in Pensacola News Journal, “Just because you can’t go home for the holidays doesn’t mean you have to be alone and leftover-less. Friends, coworkers, neighbors and ‘holiday orphans’ can celebrate a fantastic Friendsgiving instead.” Stay sane in the kitchen or watch football and eat wings– you’ll be surrounded by loved ones either way.

Embracing an additional foodie event

            Thanksgiving is definitely a foodie holiday, and Friendsgiving continues to uphold the foodie lifestyle, usually the week prior to traditional Thanksgiving. Friendsgiving is often hosted pot-luck style, and many Friendsgiving spreads offer an array of diverse foods that range from spinach artichoke dip to bacon mac and cheese. Don’t be surprised if a guest brings empanadas or egg rolls, anything can happen on Friendsgiving! Leave the turkey up to the host or hostess, and make sure to bring a dish worth getting seconds for.

Championing adulthood

Speaking of the host or hostess, this may be the first time he or she may be hosting Friendsgiving. For many individuals, this is a coming-of-age event that marks a new foray into adulthood. Leave room for mistakes and laughs; after all, it is hard to bake and defrost an entire turkey and make a Friendsgiving dinner! 

How to be an ideal guest

Now that you’ve decided to travel for Millennial Friendsgiving, here are a few things to remember to be an ideal guest. Don’t forget to bring a dish – side dish, entrée, dessert, you must bring something tasty to Friendsgiving. In addition, don’t forget to book your stay at your closest Best Western Hotels & Resorts-branded property, you don’t want to impose on your host or hostess, and a comfortable stay is key to a happy experience. Finally, go make Friendsgiving memories and don’t forget to tag us on Instagram!