Here at Green Level, Thanksgiving is celebrated in many different ways, especially with friends. Unlike the traditional holiday that’s usually centered around family, Friendsgiving is all about the people you choose to show up for every day, its teammates, school buds, and childhood friends.

For many students, like junior Tarini Vakada, Friendsgiving holds a deeper meaning; it’s a time to honor the friendships in their lives.

“I feel like when you’re doing Friendsgiving with friends, you made those relationships by yourself, and you’ve all grown together. But with family you’ve known each other for so long, so it’s more special and different when you do it with friends.” Says Vakada.

This gathering is a chance to pause the chaos of school, sports, and homework and actually be present together with no grades, no pressure, just food and love. Freshman Jeysna Jeyaraman agrees with this statement and exclaims how special Friendsgiving is to her.

“I think Friendsgiving is a good opportunity to thank your friends and spend time with them, and be thankful for all that they do for me. So I think it’s a great time to be thankful and not be overwhelmed with school and be yourself.” Says Jeyaraman.

Friendsgiving is not just about the food on the table; it’s about the people around you. In the middle of school stress, busy schedules, family drama, and everything else life throws at you, taking one night to slow down and gather with friends really matters more than we realize. What makes Friendsgiving so special is the laughter, inside jokes, and reminder that family can also be chosen. As everyone leaves with fuller plates and hearts, Friendsgiving is a reminder that gratitude isn’t limited to just one day in November; it’s something we build together, one shared meal at a time.