Friendsgiving is a term that has picked up quite a bit of steam over the last few years. One can only assume the word Friendsgiving originated in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, and other cities where 99% of the population are transplants (not actual facts).

I myself reside in Los Angeles, and have experienced quite a few Friendsgivings. You see, most of my immediate family live on the east coast, and traveling all the way over there for a few days just to stuff my mouth with delicious holiday treats doesn’t seem realistic. Hence why the term Friendsgiving was created, a gathering for the many transplants left without family to celebrate Thanksgiving with.

Since it is yet another year I won’t be visiting my east coast family, I decided to make this Friendsgiving extra special. Below you will find a few things you can pickup to make your Friendsgiving gathering one they will never forget.


1. Leinenkugel’s Brewing Co.’s Cranberry Ginger Shandy

Leinenkugel's Cranberry Ginger Shandy

If you didn’t already know, Wisconsin produces more cranberries than any state in America. So it’s only natural that Wisconsin brewing company, Leinenkugel Brewing Company has taken a traditional wheat beer and spiced it up with natural cranberry flavor and notes of ginger. A perfect combination for this holiday season.

Leinenkugel's Cranberry Ginger Shandy

Try pairing Leinenkugel’s Cranberry Ginger Shandy with honey-glazed ham, brie cheese or a green salad with a tart dressing.


2. Décor It Up with a Turkey Centerpiece

Turkey Centerpiece for Friendsgiving Decoration

Nothing says Friendsgiving quite like a turkey centerpiece. You can find these at your local part store or online. Surround them with a few mini pumpkins and some Indian corn, and just like that, your friends will think you’re an interior designer.


3. Snacks on Snacks on Snacks

Brie and other cheeses paired with bread is a great appetizer for Friendsgiving

While you’re waiting for the main course to finish in the oven, be sure to have plenty of treats for your guests to snack on while they’re sipping on their Cranberry Ginger Shandy. A personal go-to for these very occasions is cheese – brie in particular. Grab a loaf of bread, some jam of your liking, and now you’re snacking.


4. Friendsgiving Games are a Must

Assuming your friends aren’t party-poopers, they will most likely appreciate playing a game or two. Once again, another fun thing to do while waiting for your food to finish or perhaps saved for after you eat, for when burning calories is needed. I recommend downloading the game ‘Heads Up’ from your app store. Available on both iOS and Android, this game is a blast to play and only requires a smartphone or tablet.


5. Delicious Smelling Candles

Leinenkugel's Cranberry Ginger Shandy

Whether dessert is on the menu or not, a tasty smelling candle is a great treat for the nostrils. I recommend apple pie, cookies, and any other scent that will drive a sweet tooth crazy.


If you have any other fun Friendsgiving tips and tricks you would like to share, leave them in the comments below. Or tweet at @JoesDaily and @Leinenkugels with the hashtag #Friendsgiving and share it in 140-characters or less.

Happy Thanksgiving, friends!

This post was sponsored by Leinenkugel’s Brewing Co. All opinions are my own.