On Sunday, East Lansing residents and MSU students came together for an early Thanksgiving celebration. The event was hosted by East Lansing's Community Relations Coalition and organizers called it an "international Thanksgiving."

"It's an opportunity to look at all the international students we have living in the community, share with them one of our American traditions but also provide an opportunity for them to bring in one of the dishes that represent their home country and just spice it up and make it an international Thanksgiving," said Olivia Seifert from the Community Relations Coalition.

MSU freshman Wenbo Gong is an international student from China and for him, the event was an opportunity to learn more about an American tradition.

"This is my first Thanksgiving this year and trying the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, that's awesome," Gong said.

At the same time, Gong is also learning about another tradition that immediately follows Thanksgiving --- Black Friday.

"I heard that it's crazy, it's crowded everywhere," Gong said.

This year, retailers are going that extra step with retail stores moving up their sales and some even opening their doors on Thursday night.

"This year retailers are taking control and saying I need that consumer to come into my store to do their Christmas shopping and I want to get them as early as possible," said marketing expert Miro Copic.

While long lines may be expected, East Lansing Mayor Diane Goddeeris says Sunday's international Thanksgiving feast is about celebrating in a traditional way.

"Taking a day to really thank each other and to do it together with people you live and work with, it's a great time together," said Mayor Goddeeris.