Friendsgiving planner 2026
Pick a date about 4 weeks out, send invites, decide what you're cooking versus what guests bring, and plan roughly 1 to 1.5 lb of whole turkey per person. Get Gatsby builds the plan, budget, invites and RSVPs, free for everyone with no guest limit.
Thanksgiving 2026 is Thursday, November 26.
Checklist
- Pick a date, time and rough budget
- Make the guest list and send invites with an RSVP link
- Ask about +1s, dietary needs and allergies
- Decide what you'll cook and what guests bring
- Plan seating, plates, cutlery and serving dishes
- Plan drinks (include non-alcoholic options; anyone drinking alcohol must be 21+)
- Thaw the turkey in time if it's frozen
- Containers for leftovers
Timeline from 4 weeks out
- 4 weeks out: Pick the date, set a budget, draft the guest list, send invites.
- 3 weeks out: Collect RSVPs and dietary needs. Decide the menu and who's bringing what.
- 2 weeks out: Borrow or buy extra chairs, plates and serving dishes. Order a turkey if you want a fresh one.
- 1 week out: Final headcount. Shop non-perishables and drinks. Nudge anyone who hasn't RSVP'd.
- 5–6 days out: Start thawing a frozen turkey in the fridge (allow 1 day per 4–5 lb: about 4–5 days for 16–20 lb, 5–6 days for 20–24 lb).
- 1–2 days out: Shop fresh ingredients. Make pies, sauces and anything that reheats. Send a reminder.
- Day of: Set the table, cook the main, warm the sides, and enjoy it.
Headcount and food guide
General rules of thumb, not exact amounts. Plan for your confirmed RSVPs plus a couple of extra servings.
| Item | Per person (general guidance) |
|---|---|
| Whole turkey (bone-in) | 1–1.5 lb |
| Mashed potatoes | about 1/2 lb potatoes |
| Stuffing | about 3/4–1 cup |
| Other sides | about 1/2 cup of each, 3–4 sides total |
| Rolls | 1–2 |
| Pie | 1 pie per 6–8 guests |
Food safety: thaw a frozen turkey in the fridge (about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 lb) and cook it to an internal temperature of 165 °F, checked with a food thermometer (USDA FSIS).
Find a local partner
Local businesses are joining Gatsby as partners. See the partner program.
Budgets are estimates only. For adults 18+. Alcohol content is 21+. Get Gatsby runs in your web browser.
FAQ
How much turkey do I need per person?
As general guidance, plan about 1 to 1.5 lb of whole, bone-in turkey per person.
Is the Get Gatsby Friendsgiving planner free?
Yes. Gatsby is free. Every feature, for every host. No account to start, no card, no trial.
Sources
All accessed November 2, 2026.
- Get Gatsby: get-gatsby.com/ · get-gatsby.com/pricing
- Fridge thawing about 24 hours per 4 to 5 lb (4–5 days for 16–20 lb, 5–6 days for 20–24 lb); cook to 165 °F; about 1 lb of turkey per person: www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/poultry/lets-talk-turkey-roasting
- About 1.5 lb per person for generous servings with leftovers (Butterball hotline): www.nbcnews.com/better/lifestyle/time-talk-turkey-butterball-help-hotline-operator-answers-your-burning-ncna1091661
Last updated
Guides: Friendsgiving planner · Best party planning apps · Partiful alternative · Office holiday party checklist · New Year's Eve party at home · Party budget per guest · Free Evite alternative · Kids' birthday party checklist
Chip in for Gatsby · Pricing · Partners · Terms · Privacy · Support · [email protected]Made in Boulder, CO.