A Friendsgiving invitation does not need formal wording. It does need the facts: the date, start time, address, whether dinner is a potluck, what you want people to bring, and how to tell you about allergies. Send it once the date is set; see when to host Friendsgiving. Then use a sign-up so assignments do not live only in a long text thread. This is not a rewrite of how to host a Friendsgiving, which covers the whole plan.
A simple message you can copy and adapt
You can write: “Please come to Friendsgiving on Saturday, November 21, at 4 p.m. at my apartment. It will be a potluck. I am covering the main and plates. Reply by November 14 and tell me if you want to bring a side, a dessert, drinks, or ice, and if you have any food allergies.” Change the date, time, and host duties to match your plan. If it is not a potluck, say so clearly, and tell guests whether a small host gift is welcome but not expected.
What to include every time
Include parking or door-entry notes if they matter, an end time if your building or roommate situation needs one, and a line about kids or plus-ones so nobody has to guess. If you want people dressed casually, say that; what to wear to Thanksgiving dinner already covers the broader clothing question, including Friendsgiving. If the gathering is in a small apartment, a sentence about limited seating is kinder than surprise floor seating. See how to host Friendsgiving in a small apartment.
Ask for a reply
Give a reply date a week or so ahead, then follow up once with anyone who has not answered. You need a head count for dish assignments and for leftover containers at the end of the night. Keep the tone warm, and avoid turning the invitation into a long list of rules. People are more likely to bring what you actually need if you ask clearly and give them a couple of dish ideas. For guest-side manners, point friends to Friendsgiving etiquette and the Friendsgiving guide.
Helpful extras
- Everyday White 16-Inch Porcelain Turkey Platter — Mention serving pieces only if you need guests to bring them; most invitations should stay about time and food.
- Pyrex Deep 9×13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid — If you ask guests to bring a side, a lidded 9×13 is the dish most people can travel with.
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Frequently asked questions
What should a Friendsgiving invitation include?
The date, time, place, whether it is a potluck, what you want people to bring, a way to share allergies, and a reply date.
Is a group text formal enough?
Yes, if the details are complete. A sign-up list still helps once people start claiming dishes.
Should I mention leftovers or cleanup?
You can ask guests to bring a container if you like. A short, kind note is enough; save the rest for the day-of plan.