Friendsgiving is moving to the daytime in 2026, taking on new trends that differ from previous years. This year, trends show that friends are centering on comfort-style foods and letting the dishes do the decorating. In a recent survey by Napa Cellars, data showed that 67.2% of respondents prefer a daytime celebration, led by “brunch-giving” at 35.6% and late-afternoon “sip and graze” gatherings at 31.6%. Personally, as a brunch lover, I am totally here for this trend. Nighttime gatherings are sometimes overrated (especially for those of us over 30).
Elevated mac and cheese ranked as the number one must-have side at 40%, while other sides such as mashed potatoes (25.2%) and traditional stuffing (10.4%) ranked less favorably. While 76.4% are at least somewhat likely to share their gathering on social media, fewer than 10% will spend extra on decor, compared with 79.6% who will spend extra on food.
Napa Cellars Friendsgiving 2026 Trend Report Highlights
- Who says Friendsgiving has to wait until evening? Late morning to early afternoon is the top preferred celebration window, with 35.6% choosing “Brunch-giving,” ahead of late afternoon grazing at 31.6% and traditional dinner parties at 27.6%. The strongest preference puts a daytime spin on the holiday gathering,
- Sharing the meal also means sharing the responsibility. 41.6% of hosts follow a strict potluck format, while another 23.2% provide the food and ask guests to BYOB. Together, nearly 65% use one of these shared-contribution approaches, making coordination part of the celebration, from who brings the signature side to who supplies the wine.
- Comfort food comes with an upgrade this Friendsgiving. Elevated comfort food leads the culinary trends at 33.6%, and elevated mac & cheese is the single must-have side with 40.0% of consumers planning to have it on the menu. Think familiar favorites with a little extra richness, a special ingredient, or a memorable finishing touch. The dish everyone knows has become the one guests most want on the table.
