Fakesgiving
Fakesgiving is a holiday with a twist. It’s a made-up Thanksgiving that doesn’t follow any official calendar. Families and friends plan it when their schedules finally match up.
People gather around tables filled with food, laughter, and easy conversations.
Nobody worries about the “real” date. What matters most is being together. This simple idea has turned into a much-loved tradition for many. It takes the pressure off and makes room for more memories.
What makes Fakesgiving so special is its heart. It welcomes anyone who needs extra time to celebrate. Some people can’t travel on the main holiday. Others have different plans with other relatives.
Fakesgiving gives everyone a second chance to sit, eat, and enjoy the moment. There are no strict rules. People make their own way of celebrating. In the end, it’s not the day on the calendar that counts. It’s the people around the table.
How to Celebrate Fakesgiving
Fakesgiving offers a flexible way to gather with loved ones and enjoy a festive meal outside the traditional holiday schedule. Here are some creative ideas to make your Fakesgiving celebration memorable:
Host a Recipe Swap
Encourage guests to bring dishes they’ve never made before. This adds variety to the meal and sparks culinary creativity. Sharing new recipes can lead to delightful surprises and new favorites.
Create a Gratitude Wall
Set up a space where attendees can write what they’re thankful for on sticky notes or cards. Displaying these messages fosters a sense of community and appreciation.
It’s a visual reminder of the positive aspects of life.
Organize Themed Games
Plan activities like a “pin the feather on the turkey” game or a Fakesgiving trivia quiz. These games add fun and laughter to the gathering.
They also help break the ice among guests who may not know each other well.
Set Up a DIY Photo Booth
Designate an area with props and a festive backdrop for guests to take pictures. This provides a fun activity and creates lasting memories. Sharing these photos can extend the joy beyond the event.
Volunteer Together
Consider spending part of the day helping at a local food bank or shelter. Giving back to the community embodies the spirit of gratitude. It’s a meaningful way to bond with friends and family.
History of Fakesgiving
Fakesgiving began as a creative solution for those unable to celebrate Thanksgiving on its traditional date. In 2009, Zach Patton and Clay Dunn hosted their first Fakesgiving in Washington, D.C., aiming to test holiday recipes ahead of time.
They coined the term after a friend mentioned hosting a similar event the night before Thanksgiving.
The concept gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when many people sought alternative ways to connect with loved ones.
Fakesgiving provided an opportunity to gather safely and flexibly, accommodating various schedules and circumstances.
Pop culture also played a role in spreading the idea. In the film To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You, the Covey family celebrates Fakesgiving in March to honor a cherished family tradition.
Over time, Fakesgiving has evolved into a personalized celebration. People tailor it to their preferences, choosing dates, menus, and activities that suit their needs. Whether it’s a potluck with friends or a quiet dinner with family, Fakesgiving emphasizes togetherness and gratitude.
Today, Fakesgiving continues to offer a flexible and inclusive way to celebrate, allowing individuals to create meaningful traditions that fit their unique circumstances.
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