Rachel faces a challenge in accumulating $100 in tips to cover the cost of her ticket for a skiing vacation with her family in Vail. However, her friends rally around her, pooling their resources to assist her in purchasing the ticket. Meanwhile, Ross becomes eager to bond with his unborn child when he discovers that Susan, his ex-wife’s partner, communicates with the baby. In light of their parents’ absence, Ross and Monica devise a plan for a tranquil Thanksgiving dinner at Monica’s apartment.
Their plans take an unexpected turn when Phoebe, who celebrates Thanksgiving in December with her grandmother, decides to join them. Joey, who recently posed for a public health poster, is also present as his family has shunned him under the mistaken belief that he has contracted a sexually transmitted disease. Chandler, despite his usual reluctance to celebrate Thanksgiving due to a painful childhood memory of his parents’ divorce announcement on the holiday, also attends.
During the Thanksgiving parade, chaos ensues when the ‘Underdog’ balloon breaks free, prompting everyone to rush to the rooftop for a better view. In the commotion, they inadvertently lock themselves out of Monica’s apartment. Upon their return, they discover that the dinner is ruined, and Rachel has missed her flight. Tensions briefly rise as Monica expresses frustration over the ruined holiday. However, their spirits are lifted when they observe their neighbor “Ugly Naked Guy” enjoying a romantic Thanksgiving dinner with his girlfriend “Ugly Naked Gal”.
Monica improvises by preparing tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches, Chandler’s traditional Thanksgiving meal, for everyone. Chandler reflects on the rare opportunity for them to spend Thanksgiving together, expressing gratitude for their friendship and the shared experience.
