UC Davis Health celebrates record turnout for Friendsgiving: “Cultures and Communities”

This year’s annual Friendsgiving celebration on Nov. 4 showcased an incredible display of community, connection and gratitude. What began as a small gathering in previous years has now evolved into one of UC Davis Health’s most anticipated community events.

Last year, just over 150 people registered for the event. This year, preregistration hit a record high of more than 360 attendees, with more than 100 people signing up in the final week alone. The event ultimately welcomed between 400 and 450 guests — employees, students and their families — filling the Betty Irene Moore Hall classroom with laughter, music and the unmistakable warmth of togetherness, along with the aromas of a true Southern and New Orleans-style dinner. Items included red beans and rice, fried chicken, homemade spinach dip, samosas, salad, burritos and more.

Hosted under the theme “Cultures and Communities,” Friendsgiving showcased lively performances, diverse foods and moments of reflection on belonging. Although the large turnout caused some dishes to run out, organizers emphasized that the proper focus of the event is not what’s on the plate — it’s who’s at the table.

“The spirit of Friendsgiving is rooted in our Principles of Community — mutual respect, kindness and inclusion,” said organizers from the Office for Health Equity by Design for Inclusive Excellence. “Each year, we’re reminded that when we come together, share stories and celebrate one another’s cultures, we build something far greater than a meal — we build community.”

This year’s turnout reaffirmed that commitment. Friendsgiving remains a space where colleagues from various departments, cultures and backgrounds can connect — embodying the UC Davis Health values that nurture our community’s strong spirit.

Learn more about all our UC Davis Health Employee Resource Groups. These groups are open to anyone, regardless of background, who wishes to support, participate in, or learn about the diverse cultures and communities at UC Davis Health. Membership and participation in Employee Resource Group activities are not dependent on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any protected category under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.