How to Host a Friendsgiving at Your Bar or Brewery
Friendsgiving, a beloved tradition that combines the warmth of Thanksgiving with the camaraderie of friends, has become increasingly popular in recent years. While many people celebrate this special occasion at home, bars and breweries can provide a unique and vibrant setting for a Friendsgiving event, especially for guests that do not have family nearby. Hosting a Friendsgiving at your bar can create unforgettable memories and bring together your community in a festive and social atmosphere.
1. Plan Ahead
The key to a successful Friendsgiving event at your bar is careful planning. Start by selecting a date and time that works for your regular patrons and consider offering special promotions or discounts for the occasion. Plan well in advance to ensure you have enough staff, supplies, and decorations to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere.
2. Create a Festive Atmosphere
Decorate your bar with Thanksgiving-themed decor, including pumpkins, autumn leaves, and table settings that evoke the feeling of a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Soft lighting and cozy seating arrangements can help create a warm and inviting ambiance.
3. Thanksgiving-Inspired Menu
Craft a special Friendsgiving menu that features classic Thanksgiving dishes with a twist. Consider offering turkey sliders, cranberry-infused cocktails, pumpkin pie martinis, and other creative takes on traditional fare. Vegetarian and vegan options should also be available to cater to a diverse range of dietary preferences.
4. Potluck Style or Catering
You can choose to make it a potluck-style event where patrons can bring their favorite Thanksgiving dishes to share, or you can partner with a local catering service to provide a buffet-style meal. Potlucks add a personal touch to the event, while catering ensures consistency and convenience.
5. Entertainment
Enhance the festive atmosphere with live music, a DJ, or a playlist of Thanksgiving-themed tunes. Consider hosting fun activities like trivia games or a pie-eating contest to keep guests engaged and entertained.
6. Gratitude and Giving Back
Encourage your patrons to express their gratitude by setting up a "Thankful Wall" where they can write down what they're thankful for. Consider organizing a charitable aspect to the event, such as a food drive for a local food bank or a donation drive for a worthy cause.
7. Friendsgiving Specials
Offer Friendsgiving drink specials, such as themed cocktails, discounted pitchers of beer, or special wine pairings. Consider creating a signature Friendsgiving cocktail that patrons can look forward to each year.
8. Promote Your Event
Use social media, email newsletters, and your bar's website to promote your Friendsgiving event. Encourage patrons to invite their friends and share the event on their own social networks to maximize attendance.
Hosting a Friendsgiving event at your bar is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with your loyal patrons and create a sense of community. By planning ahead, creating a festive atmosphere, offering a special menu, and incorporating fun activities, you can ensure that your Friendsgiving event becomes an annual tradition that patrons look forward to. So, raise a glass and toast to the joys of friendship and gratitude in the welcoming embrace of your bar this Friendsgiving.
