What you bring to Friendsgiving depends on whether the host asked for a potluck dish, a bottle, a host gift, or simply yourself. Read the invitation first. If there is a sign-up, bring what you claimed. This page is Friendsgiving-specific; the more general decision guide is what to bring to a Thanksgiving potluck. For packing a hot or cold dish, see how to pack food to take to Thanksgiving. For manners, see Friendsgiving etiquette.
If it is a potluck
Bring the assigned dish, a serving utensil, and a lid or wrap. Travel-friendly choices include a 9×13 side, a salad you can dress on arrival, rolls, pecan pie bars, or mini pies. Ask before you bring a raw turkey or anything that will take over the host’s oven for hours. Note allergens, and do not disappear into the kitchen unless you have been asked to help. If you were assigned drinks or ice, bring those and enough cups only if the host requested them. Label your dish if it contains common allergens, and include a brief reheating note if the host will need to warm it.
If dinner is already covered
A small host gift is welcome but not required: tea, a candle, or flowers in a simple vase you do not expect back. Do not bring a surprise extra casserole that the fridge cannot hold. Do not show up empty-handed only if the host clearly wanted a contribution; if they said just come, believe them. A bottle of wine or a nonalcoholic cider is fine if you know the host drinks those things.
At the end of the night
Take your serving dish home, or arrange to pick it up later. Take leftovers only when they are offered, and refrigerate them as soon as you get home; see how to travel with leftovers if the drive is long. Thank the host. More Friendsgiving help is in the Friendsgiving guide.
Helpful kitchen tools
- Pyrex Deep 9×13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid — A lidded 9×13 is the most useful dish you can bring to a Friendsgiving potluck.
- MALACASA 9-Inch Ceramic Pie Pan Set of 2 — If you signed up for dessert, a pie dish with a way to keep it level in the car matters.
- Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags, 4-Pack — A reusable bag can carry salad greens, rolls, or leftover portions on the way home.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best dish to bring to Friendsgiving?
The dish you signed up for. If there is no sign-up, ask the host what is missing before you decide.
Do I have to bring a host gift and a dish?
No. A potluck dish is already a contribution. A small gift is optional.
Can I bring leftover Thanksgiving food to a weekend Friendsgiving?
Only if the host wants it, the food was stored safely, and you can reheat leftover turkey or stuffing to 165°F.