While Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated in most parts of the world, living in the U.S. during the holiday inspires many international students to make their own version of it. For students far from home, Friendsgiving has become more than a meal — it’s a moment to gather, share food, and build a sense of belonging.

For many, it starts as a simple potluck. Someone offers to host in their dorm or apartment, and everyone brings a dish from their home country. The result is a table full of stories told through food — spicy, sweet, and comforting flavors that blend into something uniquely American and international at the same time.

The Numbers Behind Friendsgiving

According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), there were more than 1.05 million international students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities during the 2022–2023 academic year, marking a 12% increase from the previous year — the fastest growth rate in over 40 years.

Roughly 32 percent of undergraduate students are out-of-state, and roughly 5 percent are international. Unlike in-state students, these students cannot always go home easily for Thanksgiving — high transportation costs and long travel times make travel impractical for many, The Cavalier Daily said.

For those who remain on campus, universities and student groups often organize initiatives to ensure no one feels left out. Some provide low-cost or free meals, while others host Friendsgiving dinners where students bring dishes from their own countries.

Where do International Students Come From?

The U.S. welcomes students from all over the world, but most international students come from a handful of countries. China, India, and South Korea consistently top the list of countries sending students to American universities.

Knowing this helps explain why many Friendsgiving tables feature foods and flavors from these regions. In some gatherings, each person brings a dish from home — a starter, main course, dessert or drink — creating a one-of-a-kind international feast.

Where the Celebration Happens

International students are concentrated in a few key states that serve as the largest hubs of cultural exchange: California, New York, and Texas lead the list, followed by Massachusetts, Illinois, and Florida.

These states are also home to large universities where Friendsgiving traditions thrive. Gatherings happen in shared dorm kitchens, apartment lounges, and student centers.

Now: A Recipe Guide from the Top Three Countries

Here are three recipes inspired by the top three nationalities of international students in the U.S. — India, South Korea and China.

Each selection is shareable, budget-friendly and perfect to host Friendsgiving.

Starter: Vegetable Samosas from India

Main Course: Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew) from South Korea

Dessert & Drink: Red Bean Mooncakes and Jasmine Tea from China

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