How to Throw a 'Peanuts'-Style Friendsgiving Even Snoopy Would Approve Of

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, where the Peanuts gang gathers around a backyard table for a makeshift meal of buttered toast, popcorn, pretzel sticks, jelly beans, and even ice cream sundaes. Instead of trying to pull off a picture-perfect feast, they focus on togetherness and gratitude.

You can recapture the magic in your own home with a Peanuts-style Friendsgiving, an imperfectly perfect celebration of friends and fall fun.

Set the Scene (with Snoopy's Help)

The heart of any Peanuts gathering is warmth. Bring that feeling to life with uncomplicated, nostalgic touches. Use bedsheets as tablecloths pinned down with clothespins, mismatched plates, and colorful cloth napkins. Add a few small pumpkins or jars of flowers for a homespun feel. If you can find a Snoopy figurine or two, place them on the table for more representation.

If you really want to step it up and have a group that loves to participate, invite everyone to come dressed as their favorite Peanuts character. Dawn Charlie Brown’s signature zigzag shirt or Linus' blue baby blanket for a Friendsgiving that feels straight out of the cartoon.

And don’t forget the music. Vince Guaraldi’s Peanuts soundtrack is the perfect background. Play the jazzy record as guests arrive or during dinner to keep things fun and easygoing.

Keep the Menu Simple and Sweet

When it comes to a Peanuts-style Friendsgiving, the magic is in the menu. In the classic special, Charlie Brown and Snoopy serve up the most delightfully mismatched feast imaginable: buttered toast, popcorn, pretzel sticks, jelly beans, and strawberry ice cream sundaes. It’s far from traditional, but that’s exactly what makes it so charming.

Fill your own table with bowls of fresh-popped popcorn, stacks of buttered toast triangles, and handfuls of colorful jelly beans that double as decor. Top off each meal with a strawberry ice cream sundae piled high with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, just like the animated film.

Focus on What Really Matters

When Peppermint Patty complains about the unconventional Thanksgiving meal in the classic special, it’s Linus who reminds everyone what the day is truly about: gratitude. Encourage everyone to share something they’re thankful for, big or small. You could even hand out note cards for guests to jot down what they appreciate about each other.

End the Night with a Classic

After dinner, cue up A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving for a viewing that will take everyone straight back to childhood. The 1973 special is timeless, filled with humor and heart. It's a perfect conclusion to your evening. Leftover popcorn and sweets can also be used as movie snacks.