If this is your first fall at Emerson—whether you’re a freshman, transfer, or just weren’t here last November—you HAVE to go to the dining hall tonight from 4:30 to 9:00 p.m. for Emerson’s annual Friendsgiving. The earlier you can get there the better because food DOES run out and it DOES get super crowded by peak dinner time. There’s no shame in eating dinner at 4:30 p.m. when it’s dining hall Friendsgiving. 

At this point in the semester, those of us with Meal Plan A may be steering away from dining hall dinners—the staple pizza and pasta station only seems good three or four times a week, not every meal. I switch it up most nights, grabbing a quick chicken quesadilla from the Max or a deli sandwich, skipping the chaos that can be the dining hall during peak dinner hours. 

But tonight, you WILL see me in the dining hall for Friendsgiving. Come one, come all, because it is not to be missed. If this is the first you’re hearing of it, get your sneakers and comfortable pants on: Emerson’s Friendsgiving is NOT for the weak. They have every Thanksgiving staple you can think of, and they pull out all the stops for this meal. 

This year’s line-up—according to the dining feature on the MyEmerson app—includes roasted turkey, whipped potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, squash puree, an array of dips and hummus, chicken, lamb, rice, sweet potato lasagna, roasted brussels sprouts, lobster bisque, au gratin potatoes, cornbread, and so much more. The stage is typically converted into the best dessert spread of the semester. 

You may have seen the dining hall before a 10 a.m. class, or even during the typical 6 p.m. dinner rush, but you have not lived until you have survived a dining hall Friendsgiving. The sensory dining room and the Lion’s Den normally overflow with Friendsgiving goers, so be prepared for standing room only. If you’re lucky enough to secure a booth on Friendsgiving, I envy you. 

If this chaotic meal doesn’t sound up your alley, then check out the Lion’s Den from 6 to 8 p.m. Dining services are hosting a Friendsgiving Trivia Night—groups can sign up here if there is still space available. If not, feel free to grab some food and watch, it should be fun!