Create your own Turkey Day tradition: Friendsgiving

By Jackie Valley

Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014 | 2 a.m.

Eight years ago, a dozen people crammed into Brittany Markarian’s 900-square-foot condo to celebrate what they affectionately called “Misfits’ Thanksgiving.”

The group included a few of Markarian’s relatives who live in Las Vegas, but most were friends bound by a similar predicament: They were unable to travel home for the holiday.

So like the twentysomethings featured on the television hit “Friends,” the group banded together. Markarian, then 23, provided the main entrees, while everyone else pitched in side dishes and dessert. When it was time to eat, they sat around folding card tables and, in lieu of a formal prayer, shared what they were thankful for that year.

“I like ‘Friendsgiving’ because it’s laid-back,” Markarian said. “It’s got a younger vibe.”

The group is older now and its gathering spot is much less cramped, but the tradition still is going strong.

This year, Markarian and her husband plan to host an all-day feast at their home. A spread of chips, dip and meatballs will keep everyone happy until the big meal featuring two 12-pound turkeys at 2 p.m. Football will fill the morning, while a euchre tournament is likely in the afternoon or evening.

“You just graze all day,” Markarian said. “Then after 4 o’clock, you are disgustingly full.”

Sound like fun? It’s not too late to plan your own “Friendsgiving” celebration. It doesn’t even have to fall on Thanksgiving. Many groups celebrate the day before or after Thanksgiving because of family obligations Thursday.

Where to start?

David Smythe, an event designer at Las Vegas’ By Dzign, offered these tips:

• The invites: Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many guests you can’t comfortably accommodate. Consider the amount of space inside your home or apartment. Once you have an approximate number in mind, make a list of the people who play the biggest role in your life. Don’t feel obligated to invite every acquaintance. The day will seem more relaxed if you’re not worrying about pleasing people you barely know.

• The decorations: If you’re envisioning a casual get-together, don’t worry about decorating. Everyone is there for the food anyway. Flowers could serve as a simple table decoration.

If you’re feeling fancy and your budget allows it, hire an event designer to provide coordinating linens, chairs and floral centerpieces to shorten your to-do list.

• The meal: Provide the main entrees — turkey, dressing and mashed potatoes, for example — and ask friends to bring a side dish or dessert. Turn the event into a recipe-sharing opportunity. Don’t forget to get a final headcount before hitting the grocery store.

• The entertainment: Keep the atmosphere relaxed by playing music or a movie. That will help everyone steer clear of awkward silences.

A cocktail hour also can help break the ice among guests. Just remember to have a selection of mocktails handy for guests who don’t drink alcohol. If the turkey won’t make its debut until hours after guests arrive, consider pairing cocktail hour with appetizers.

To keep people occupied, plan an easy holiday craft that guests can make and take home at the end of the gathering. After the big feast, interactive games such as Pictionary can help prevent guests from getting restless or sleepy.