My favorite part of the holidays is walking into my grandparent's house and taking a deep breath. Pineapple casserole, turkey, bread and seemingly endless desserts are certainly some of the highlights of Thanksgiving. This year, however, I'm 4,000 miles away in the UK, far away from any semblance of a Thanksgiving celebration. So in lieu of my tradition family get-together, I thought I'd put together some ideas for anyone else missing home just a little bit more during the holidays.

1. Friendsgiving

I've celebrated a Friendsgiving every year in college, either before or after going home for the holiday itself. Admittedly, the food is usually a little less home-cooked, but after an evening of drinking, laughing, and celebrating with your friends, you won't even notice. No matter where you are in the world, you can always find a few people willing to sit down for some food.

2. Watch the Parade

A close personal second to the food, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a classic way to celebrate the day. Broadway, giant turkeys and even more giant balloons are always entertaining, so even if you're alone on Thanksgiving, curl up with some hot chocolate and enjoy the spectacle.

3. Movie Marathon

This year, instead of binging on turkey, my friends and I are having a Harry Potter marathon. Not the most traditional celebration, but any day spent curled up in PJs with hot chocolate, snacks and movies is a day well spent. Plus this idea is always easy with the Harry Potter marathons in a seeming endless loop on TV.

4. KFC

Bear with me here: turn off the oven, throw on some shoes, and go get yourself a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken. No need for everyone to scramble over a forgotten potluck, or spend money on an expensive turkey. Everyone loves fried chicken, and honestly, is there anything more American than an entire bucket of deep-fried goodness? Not to mention that it's available nearly everywhere. So while you enjoy your turkey, I'll be curled up in bed, watching Harry Potter with my best friends, and snacking on some delicious fried chicken.

I get it, there's nothing as good as being home with your family for Thanksgiving. But that's not always an option, and as much as I love it, a day spent with my best friends can't be beat.