Thanksgiving has long been traditional with turkey dinners, family gatherings, and endless traditions passed down through generations. There’s beauty in those time-honored rituals. There’s also power in carving out your own path. This could mean celebrating with friends. It could also mean spending it solo or doing something entirely unconventional.
In a world that is constantly evolving, so too should our holidays. Let’s be real: Some people just don’t like their family members or want to be around people…and that’s okay! Here’s a reminder: it’s okay to break from tradition and celebrate Thanksgiving in a way that truly brings you joy.
Friendsgiving: The Modern Family Dinner
For those whose friends feel more like family, Friendsgiving has become a beloved alternative to the traditional family-focused celebration. Gather your closest friends. Delegate cooking duties or order takeout—no judgment here. Create a space filled with laughter, love, and gratitude. Give thanks with people you love and love you back.
Friendsgiving offers a low-pressure environment, free of those awkward family discussions or nosy relatives asking about your life plans. Instead, it’s about celebrating the family you have chosen.
Pro Tip: Make it a potluck to share the load. Encourage everyone to bring a dish that reflects their culture or personal style. This is perfect for trying new flavors and honoring diversity. Maybe you have a theme for Thanksgiving; this gives everyone a chance to be creative.
Celebrating Solo: Self-Care Thanksgiving
Not everyone feels like being around others on Thanksgiving, and that’s perfectly valid. You could be far from family. Maybe you’re not in the mood for socializing. Or maybe you want a day to yourself. In any of these cases, a solo Thanksgiving can be an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Spend the day indulging in your favorite activities. Cook a meal for one. Binge-watch your favorite Tubi movies. Take a long walk outside. Or dive into a good book. Use the time to reflect on what you’re grateful for, and let the quiet moments nourish your soul.
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to a special meal or dessert. You deserve it. DoorDash and Uber Eats will still be in service!
Family Redefined: No Turkey, No Problem
If you’re celebrating with family but want to shake things up, ditch the “rules” and create your own traditions. Why not try:
- Hosting a game night instead of a formal dinner.
- Swapping turkey for a taco bar, pizza party, or seafood boil.
- Watching your favorite movies together instead of football.
- Volunteering as a family to serve meals at a shelter or food bank.
Gratitude Beyond the Table
No matter how you celebrate, the essence of Thanksgiving is about gratitude. It’s not about where you are. It’s not about who you’re with, or what’s on your plate. It’s about taking a moment to appreciate what you have, even in its simplest form.
Write a gratitude list. Call someone who has impacted your life. Find small ways to give back to your community. These acts of appreciation and kindness embody the true spirit of Thanksgiving, whether or not it includes a turkey feast. Maybe you just landed a new job after months or years of being laid off and without work.
The Bottom Line: Do It Your Way
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to fit into a box of traditions. Whether you are surrounded by friends, family, or simply your own good company, remember that it’s your holiday to shape.
Celebrate with joy, authenticity, gratitude, and your peace—whatever that looks like for you.
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