A Thanksgiving meal made of side dishes without turkey or a substitute is called Sidesgiving.
The term describes a turkeyless Thanksgiving centered on foods normally served alongside the main dish. A Sidesgiving table might feature stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, green beans, sweet potatoes, rolls, macaroni and cheese, or other family favorites.
Sidesgiving is not automatically vegetarian or vegan. Diners may omit turkey while still serving sides made with bacon, sausage, butter, dairy, or meat-based stock. The defining feature is the absence of a turkey or turkey substitute, not a particular dietary philosophy.
The word is a playful extension of “Thanksgiving,” and it differs from Friendsgiving, which refers to a Thanksgiving celebration held with friends rather than family. A potluck describes how guests contribute food, while a buffet describes how food is presented; neither term specifically means a turkey-free meal.