In the heart of our cozy little valley, something extraordinary is brewing this holiday season. And while Thanksgiving is typically a time for family gatherings, our community has embraced a delightful twist on tradition. We call it a “Village Friendsgiving”. This unique and heartwarming celebration brings together our village neighbors, friends, and kindred spirits in the most endearing way. Let’s explore the magic of this unforgettable event and discover the joys of sharing kindness with a bountiful harvest.
Cranbrier Village Friendsgiving has humble beginnings that trace back to a few like-minded individuals within our community. It all began when a group of friends decided to celebrate the spirit of thanksgiving not just with their families but extending to the river valley village. Their vision was to create an inclusive event where everyone, regardless of their background, could share in the warmth of the Autumn harvest.

This joyous village event didn’t simply emerge overnight; it was born from the shared dreams and aspirations of these dedicated individuals within our vibrant community. Thanksgiving traditions revolved around very busy farming families, and our group of forward-thinking villagers saw an opportunity to expand the notion of family to encompass this enchanting river valley community.
These visionary residents, with hearts full of warmth and the spirit of kindness, gathered around a cozy fireplace one autumn evening. They yearned to create something extraordinary, something that would transcend the traditional boundaries of family and bring people from their community together following the Autumn harvest. The idea of Village Friendsgiving began to take shape in their conversations, inspired by the belief that the true essence of thanksgiving extended far beyond the confines of a single household.

As the initial discussions evolved, the idea began to gain the villagers interest. Their group envisioned an event where neighbors, friends, and even casual acquaintances could gather together to celebrate the spirit of thanksgiving more inclusively. The idea was met with unanimous enthusiasm, and they decided to turn this dream into a reality.
Full of determination, the founding friends began to work on organizing their very first Village Friendsgiving. They visited with fellow villagers, shared their vision, and encouraged community participation. The response was overwhelming, as residents saw the beauty in joining together to embrace a tradition that would soon become an annual celebration of Cranbrier Village.
In its inaugural year, Cranbrier Village Friendsgiving was a modest affair, held in a local field with the villagers contributing an item from their harvest to share. The joyful festivities continued for nearly three days. There were fun activities to share with everyone, and just before sunset each evening, they gathered at the Cranbrier barn nearby for music and dancing.

As the sun dipped behind the rolling hills, casting a warm, golden hue over the gathering, the founders looked around with tears of joy. They had created something truly magical and celebrated an event that united Cranbrier River Valley in a way no one had ever imagined.
And so, the tradition of Cranbrier Village Friendsgiving was born. From that modest beginning, it has grown year after year, welcoming people in the valley to its festivities and strengthening the bonds of friendship and camaraderie within our community. The origin story of Cranbrier Village Friendsgiving is a testament to the power of a simple idea and the profound impact it can have on a community, reminding us that the most beautiful traditions often start with a handful of dreamers and a shared vision of kindness.