Thanksgiving the Local Way - Building a Feast from the Farmers' Market

Thanksgiving is always something to look forward to; friends and family gather around tables filled with seasonal flavours, family recipes, and autumnal comforts, while sharing stories and reflecting on the years passed. It is a time to celebrate, a time to reflect, and a time to connect - both with one another and with our communities. So why not tailor your meal to also support the local farmers, bakers, and makers in your community by creating a feast that is truly rooted in your community. By sourcing your Thanksgiving ingredients from the Horton Farmers' Market, you can serve dishes that are fresher, more flavourful, and are deeply connected to the place you call home. 

Not sure where to start your shopping list? Here are some tips on how to build your local Thanksgiving feast: 

Start with Seasonal Produce
Horton is overflowing in the fall with delicious local produce, often showcasing a cross-over between the late summer and fall offerings. From fall staples like squash, pumpkins, Brussel sprouts, carrots, onions, potatoes, apples, and beets, to late summer garlic, lettuce, cabbage, grapes, peppers, tomatoes, corn, beans, radishes, kale, zucchini, and more - there are so many options to choose from. Roast root vegetables with fresh herbs, mash local potatoes with farm-fresh butter or creme, or make a fresh, colourful salad with beets and goat cheese.

Choose a Market Bird or a Main Dish
If turkey is your tradition, check with our local farmers and meat vendors for free-range birds and recipe suggestions - they know their meats best! Want to try something different this year? Why not explore farm-raised chicken, beef, lamb, or pork from our local farmers. You could also explore the vegetarian side of mains and make a stuffed acorn squash as a meat-free option, or try some hearty mushrooms as a meat substitute. 

Try Some Baked Goods
Horton is also home to many incredible bakers who put all the work and time in so you don't have to! From fresh pies and breads, to delicious shortbread, brownies, cookies, and more - our bakers have the bases covered for you. Want to make your own desserts? Why not source some local ingredients from Horton as well! Fresh eggs, butter, and cream are all available, alongside fresh apples, pumpkins, and berries which are sure to make a sweet difference in your homemade baked goods. 

Don't Forget the Extras
The local offerings don't stop there! We are proud to have vendors offering handmade jams and jellies, artisan cheeses, fresh honey, maple syrup, and local ciders from local artisans and farmers. These small-batch add-ons can make your table feel extra special and provide something unique to pair with your mains and sides (bonus points for when they can also double as thoughtful gifts for your guests). 

Set Your Table with Local Flair
Horton also features many local makers, crafters, and artisans. Consider adding a special handmade ceramic centerpiece or serving dish, hand carved wooden cheese boards, spice grinders, or bowls, hand poured candles, local flowers, or some beautifully knitted or crocheted pieces to brighten up your table and bring a personal touch to your meal. 

Share Gratitude with Your Community
One of the best parts about building a local feast is knowing that your meal is supporting real people - farmers who work the land, bakers who rise before dawn, and artisans who pour love and care into their craft. Consider adding small, hand-written notes to the table to let your guests know who all had a hand in growing, raising, and creating your meal - and be mindful about thanking them for their work so that you can shop, eat, and share local and fresh ingredients with your family and friends.
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Thanksgiving isn't just about the food - it's about gratitude, reflection, and connection. By creating a feast from Horton, you're not only nourishing your family with fresh, local ingredients - you're also giving thanks to your community and supporting local farmers, bakers, and artisans, while keeping your dollars in the local economy. This year, let your table be a celebration of the harvest, the fall season, and the people who work hard to make it possible.