Reinventing Friendsgiving: An Oscars-Level Night Out with Your Friends
Who says Friendsgiving has to be a low-key potluck around mismatched chairs and paper plates? Sure, there’s comfort in everyone bringing their signature homemade dish, but sometimes, it’s fun to step out of the kitchen and straight onto a red carpet—or at least the South Florida version of one. Friendsgiving could be so much more than pumpkin pie in the living room: it could be a celebration of friendship, fantastic food, and fabulous fashion, all under the warm glow of a curated, upscale venue. Imagine the Oscars with a dash of South Beach (or anywhere in South Florida really) and a heavy dose of friendship. Life is worth celebrating, and often the best memories come when you throw tradition (and the dress code) out the window and embrace a little glamour for no particular reason at all.
Why Settle for the Usual?
It’s easy to fall into the mindset that extravagant nights out, high-fashion outfits, and beautiful venues are “just for celebrities” or “only for birthdays, weddings, or bachelorettes.” But why wait? Why not shake things up and turn Friendsgiving into an evening where everyone’s dressed to the nines? Life’s most meaningful celebrations don’t need to wait for “special events.” Picture yourself at Queen in Miami or RH Rooftop in West Palm Beach, sharing the ambiance with your best friends, dressed in an outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks without spending it. The concept is simple but profound: life is an occasion, and spending quality time with the people you cherish is as good a reason as any to celebrate.
From Potluck to Posh: The Joys of Glamorous Gatherings
And listen, before you start worrying that you’ll miss out on someone’s famous green bean casserole, let’s be clear—we aren’t abandoning the charm of a home-cooked spread. But there’s something equally thrilling about having your Friendsgiving table set for you, with zero dishes to wash or countertops to scrub down afterward. Imagine the luxurious thrill of walking into Delilah Miami, where the decor is dazzling, the dishes are plated to perfection, and someone else clears the table when you’re done. We’re not suggesting making high-end dining a weekly habit, but for the nights that need a touch of magic, why not elevate the experience?
And I say this from experience! One Friendsgiving, I was in London and decided to go big—I booked a Brazilian steakhouse for myself and twelve American friends I’d recently met in the city. It was perfect: an evening full of laughter, endless churrasco, and cocktails. We swapped stories of home and the little holiday rituals we each missed, finding familiarity in a whole new place. And the best part? Not one of us had to cook or clean. It was a night that reminded me of the joy in breaking free from the mold, in celebrating each other without the burden of “hosting.” Instead, we were there simply to enjoy each other’s company, and the laughter and clinking glasses reminded us why Friendsgiving really matters.
Capture Every Glamorous Moment
Here’s the pro tip for your glam Friendsgiving: bring along a digital camera and a disposable one. You won’t regret it! There’s something magical about capturing the moment both in the crisp clarity of digital and the nostalgic grain of film. These photos will make you feel like you’re flipping through pages of a high-fashion editorial, each image a keepsake of the night that people will be talking about long after it ends. Imagine the thrill of being out together, with people glancing over, wondering, Who’s that gorgeous group downing shrimp cocktail and beef tataki? Your Friendsgiving is now a night for the memories—ones you can hold onto long after the evening’s last toast.
The Dress Code: Go All Out
One of the best parts of a reimagined Friendsgiving? Dressing up as extravagantly as you want, just for each other. Most days, we’re focused on practical outfits for work, the gym, or running errands. This is your chance to go full-on glam, to bring out the dresses, suits, heels, and accessories you typically reserve for “important” nights. Think sequins, silk, tailored pieces, metallic heels, and all the finishing touches that make you feel like you’re ready for the spotlight. Getting ready together becomes part of the fun, an experience that brings back the excitement of prom night, but this time, it’s on your terms.
And here’s the beauty of it: dressing up doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. If you want to mix high and low fashion or repurpose pieces you love, this night is for you. It’s not about impressing anyone outside your circle; it’s about making memories and feeling incredible. No need to go couture unless that’s your vibe—just choose what makes you feel amazing and ready for a night that’s all about celebrating your friends.
Venues with Flair
So, where should you host this glamorous gathering? South Florida’s rich variety of restaurant atmospheres offers plenty of choices, each with a unique vibe. These are some of the restaurants and dining experiences we have considered for our own Friendsgiving.
Queen Miami – A place for modern royalty. The decor is bold, inviting, and perfect for a glamorous Friendsgiving.
Casita Miami – An intimate, chic space ideal for sharing stories, laughs, and photo ops.
Delilah Miami – Retro meets Hollywood glam, with an edge that matches Miami’s eclectic charm.
La Goulue, Palm Beach – For a touch of European allure, this Parisian-inspired spot is perfect for a night of timeless elegance.
BrickTop's, Palm Beach – Effortlessly classy, and perfect for long conversations over shared plates.
Buccan, Palm Beach – Coastal vibes and creative dishes make this an ideal spot for friends with a taste for the finer things.
RH Rooftop, West Palm Beach – This rooftop combines incredible views with inspired design, creating a memorable escape.
Meat Market, Palm Beach Island – Posh with a fun twist, this spot is great for a stylish, unforgettable Friendsgiving.
Le Colonial, Delray Beach – Vintage-inspired decor and ambiance make this a charming setting for an elevated evening.
These venues bring a unique personality to the table, making it easy to turn Friendsgiving into an event that feels as meaningful as the friendships you’re celebrating. And without worrying about reservations or prep time, you’re free to focus on the joy of being together. Scroll through any reservation app, and choose something that feels your vibe.
Breaking Away from the Holiday Formula
Instead of the usual holiday stress—prepping, cleaning, squeezing everyone around a small table—this approach to Friendsgiving lets you walk into a beautiful venue with friends and savor the moment. And who says it has to be part of the holiday season? Pick a time that works best for everyone. Let it be a celebration that reflects the vibrant energy of your friendship, free from the constraints of tradition.
Think about it: your job likely hosts an annual Christmas party, so why not plan something as special for your chosen family? BESTIES & CO.!!!
These are the people who see you through life’s highs and lows, who listen to your late-night existential talks, who show up when it matters most. Isn’t that worth celebrating in style? The world can wait; this night is about you and your friends, dressed to the nines, reveling in each other’s company.
Redefining Friendsgiving, Your Way
Reinventing Friendsgiving is about breaking free from expectations. It’s your opportunity to embrace glamour for no reason other than to enjoy each other’s company in a way that feels luxurious, joyful, and true to you. Leave the ordinary for another night, and let this one be extraordinary—and without the endless cleanup afterward. Whether you gather at a local venue or make it a destination affair, the goal is to turn a holiday gathering into an experience as unique as your friendships.
As the holiday season approaches, remember: life itself is worth celebrating, and every day spent with people you love is an occasion that deserves to feel big, bold, and entirely yours.
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