LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — Thanksgiving, a widely celebrated holiday taking place Nov. 28, is rooted in gratitude and giving and has led to unique traditions being passed down and celebrated from generation to generation. Every fourth Thursday in November, Americans gather around tables full of turkey, potatoes, stuffing and many other classic Thanksgiving foods. However, these traditions can vary across families and regions. Each custom, whether it be well-known or personal, adds to the joy of celebrating Thanksgiving. Here are eight traditions that can make this holiday extra special!

1. Friendsgiving 

Friendsgiving is a celebration very similar to Thanksgiving; however, it is celebrated with a group of friends as opposed to a group of family members. As to not overthrow Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving typically occurs on the days previous to or following Thanksgiving. Typically, this celebration doesn’t act as a replacement for the traditional Thanksgiving dinner but more of an additional way to celebrate with friends. This could be celebrated with a dinner, games, movies, or any other fun activities to do between friends. 

2. Sidesgiving 

Not craving turkey? Not the best cook? No worries, Sidesgiving may be the perfect fit! Sidesgiving takes a twist on Thanksgiving dinner, where the meal focuses on individual side dishes instead of the traditional turkey. Essentially, Sidesgiving is a dinner that is filled with smaller portion dishes, like mac and cheese, potatoes, steamed vegetables or soup — anything you can think of!

3. Watch the National Dog Show

While not exactly on Thanksgiving day, the National Dog Show is a fun way to gather friends and family together during the fall season. Grab a sweet treat (or a few), and gather around the TV to watch adorable dogs strut their stuff, take guesses on which pup will win and bond with those you watch with! This year the show takes place from Nov. 16-17.

4. Contribute to a food drive

An excellent way to celebrate the season of being grateful is to contribute to a local food drive or at a food bank. Food banks are charitable companies that give away food to aid hunger, but they often rely on the donations of their communities. The simple and easy process of gathering any extra non-perishable foods will mean a lot to those in need. Additionally, many food banks have volunteer opportunities, which is a great way to donate your time. 

5. Ornament exchange

For many, the end of Thanksgiving night is the perfect time to begin the holiday season. A fun way to celebrate this transition between holidays is with a Thanksgiving night ornament exchange. Each person participating can bring a unique ornament, and they will be exchanged in various ways. Someone could organize it like a Secret Santa, or games could be played to choose who gets what ornament!

6. Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City takes place every Thanksgiving. The parade streams on NBC and Peacock, making it easy to watch at home! The parade consists of fun and exciting floats and balloons that make it very entertaining to watch.

7. Look at family photos 

Looking at old family photos is a great way to spend time with your loved ones on Thanksgiving. Pull out the old photo albums and get ready to tell or listen to stories from your family’s past! 

8. Go for a walk

Throughout the season of gratefulness, it is important to be thankful for the world we live in and the beauty and benefits of nature. Going for a walk with friends or family is not only perfect for inducing hunger in preparation for a big Thanksgiving dinner, but it is also a fantastic way to step away from screens, enjoy the world around us and lift everyone’s spirits.