Princeton Happenings

Hosting Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving in an apartment can feel challenging, but with a little creativity, you can create a warm, welcoming environment.

Whether you’re planning a small gathering or a lively Friendsgiving with close friends, these tips will help make your celebration in an apartment cozy, fun, and stress-free. 

1. Plan the Menu with Apartment-Friendly Dishes 

When planning your meal, consider dishes that maximize flavor but don’t require a lot of oven or stovetop space. Here are a few ideas: 

• One-Pan Wonders: Choose dishes that can be made in one pan or pot to save counter space and minimize cleanup. Think casseroles, baked pastas, or one-pan vegetable sides. 

• Mix Up Traditional and Non-Traditional Dishes: Embrace the flexibility of Friendsgiving by combining traditional Thanksgiving dishes with simpler, crowd-pleasing foods like charcuterie boards, dips, or mini sliders. 

• Delegate Dishes: Make it a potluck! Invite each guest to bring a dish, making sure you coordinate who’s bringing what. This keeps your kitchen manageable and adds a fun variety to the meal. 

2. Optimize Your Kitchen Space 

Since apartment kitchens can be small, get organized ahead of time to make cooking and serving easy. 

• Prep in Advance: Do as much as you can the day before. This includes chopping veggies, making sauces, and baking desserts. Prep work in advance frees up both time and counter space on the big day. 

• Use Countertop and Storage Hacks: Maximize counter space by using cutting boards over your sink as additional prep space. Move unnecessary items to another room temporarily to make way for serving dishes and other essentials. 

• Use Your Dining Table as a Buffet: Rather than serving food family-style at the table, set up a buffet. This makes it easier for guests to help themselves and keeps the dining area free for table settings and drinks 

3. Get Creative with Seating Arrangements 

If your dining table only seats a few, don’t worry! You can create an inviting space without a huge table. 

• Consider Floor Seating: Set up a low table or even a coffee table with pillows and throws on the floor for a cozy, casual setup. It’s perfect for a Friendsgiving vibe and allows everyone to gather around the table together. 

• Add Temporary Seating: Bring in any extra chairs or stools you have, and consider borrowing foldable chairs if needed. Have a few blankets or throws around to make seating comfortable. 

• Embrace Mismatched Furniture: If you’re using a mix of seating options, don’t worry about matching—it adds to the charm. Make each spot inviting with cushions or throws. 

4. Decorate for the Season Without Cluttering 

Decorating a small space for Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Choose decorations that add ambiance without taking up too much room. 

• Focus on the Table: A seasonal centerpiece with pumpkins, candles, and greenery can set the tone without taking up much space. A simple autumnal tablecloth or runner can make everything feel festive. 

• Use Vertical Space: Hang paper or fabric garlands, string lights, or wreaths on walls and doors to add holiday warmth without sacrificing space on tables or counters. 

• Keep It Cozy: Use fall-scented candles or small decorative touches like mini pumpkins and seasonal napkins. Little accents can make your apartment feel festive without overdoing it. 

5. Plan a Self-Serve Drink Station 

A dedicated drink station helps keep traffic in the kitchen to a minimum and makes it easy for guests to serve themselves. 

• Create a Beverage Bar: Set up a small table with drinks, glasses, and any mixers you’re offering. A pitcher of seasonal sangria or a mulled cider in a slow cooker can be a fun addition. 

• Include Non-Alcoholic Options: Have a few non-alcoholic options on hand, such as sparkling water, apple cider, or cranberry juice, so everyone has something to enjoy. 

• Decorate the Drink Area: Adding a few decorations here, like mini pumpkins or a small sign, can make the drink station a fun focal point. 

6. Plan Activities for the Group 

Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving are about spending quality time with each other, so keep a few fun activities on hand. 

• Gratitude Sharing: Have everyone write down something they’re thankful for and share it around the table. It’s a meaningful way to connect with each other. 

• Host a Movie Marathon: After dinner, unwind with a classic holiday movie or a fun Friendsgiving episode. It’s a great way to relax and keep the festivities going. 

• Organize a Game Night: Keep a few card or board games on hand for after dinner. Games like charades or Pictionary are great for group laughs in a cozy space. 

7. Make Clean-Up Easy 

After the festivities, keeping cleanup manageable will make the end of the night much more enjoyable. 

• Use Disposable Dishes (If You Prefer): To simplify cleanup, consider eco-friendly disposable plates, cups, and utensils. If you’re using reusable items, enlist a few guests to help wash up. 
  • Our Favorite Eco Friendly Disposables

• Set Up a Trash and Recycling Station: Have a clear spot for trash and recycling so guests can easily help with cleanup throughout the night. 

• Take It Slow: Don’t feel pressured to clean everything immediately. Put leftovers in containers, soak dishes that need it, and save the rest for the next day. 

Enjoy Thanksgiving in Your Apartment! 

Hosting Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving in an apartment is all about making the most of what you have and creating a welcoming environment. By planning ahead, organizing your space, and focusing on cozy touches, you can enjoy a memorable holiday celebration with friends or family that feels just as special as a big gathering. With these tips, you’re all set for a Thanksgiving filled with laughter, gratitude, and delicious food—no matter the size of your space! 

Be sure to bookmark our blog for more tips and tricks on making the most of your Princeton Apartment Home!