From Market to Table: How to Source your Thanksgiving Feast Locally
How to Shop at YOUR Local Market for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to embrace your local Massachusetts farmers market, and let fresh, local produce takes center stage during your holiday. Late fall markets are brimming with seasonal fruits and vegetables that will elevate your holiday table with rich flavors and vibrant colors. From earthy root vegetables to crisp apples, these ingredients will bring the best of the season to your celebration while supporting local farmers. Whether you're crafting a classic dish or trying something new, shopping at a farmers market ensures you’re getting the freshest, most flavorful ingredients.
Here’s what’s in season around the state and how to incorporate it into your Thanksgiving feast:
Squash and Pumpkins: Roast butternut squash for a sweet and savory side or use sugar pumpkins for a creamy, homemade pie filling.
Cranberries: Swap canned cranberry sauce for a fresh cranberry relish or glaze.
Brussels Sprouts: Roast with maple syrup and balsamic for a caramelized crunch.
Carrots and Parsnips: Add them to soups or roast with herbs for a simple, hearty side.
Apples: Use in pies, crisps, or a savory stuffing with sausage and sage.
Greens: Kale and Swiss chard can be sautéed for a bright, nutrient-packed side dish.
Adapting recipes to feature seasonal ingredients is easy! Replace potatoes with roasted root vegetables, or trade a green bean casserole for a sautéed greens medley. With a little creativity, your farmers market haul can create a Thanksgiving meal that’s fresh, local, and unforgettable.
We also put together a list of holiday markets for MFM member markets around the state. Take a look and get your calendar marked for the busy holiday dates!
What to Buy / Order from MFM’s Boston, Cambridge and Somerville Markets
Four MFM Markets are open through the week before Thanksgiving - Central, Copley, Davis and Kendall - making it easy for you to order and buy your holiday favorites and seasonal produce.
Community Servings Pie in the Sky is serving traditional apple pie, pecan pie, and seasonal-favorite pumpkin pie ($35/pie) available for pick-up at Copley Square Farmers on Nov. 26 and many other locations listed on website.
Copicut Farms is offering four Thanksgiving Reservations Options, including Thanksgiving Turkey, Custom Turkey Brine, Holiday Ham, and Half Brisket. Products are available to pick up at Central Square Farmers Market (Monday 11/25, 12-5 p.m.). Other times and locations available online.
Hi-Rise Bread Thanksgiving Specials include Whole Roasted Turkey with Gravy and Apple Pie available for pick-up at 208 Concord Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138.
Kimball Fruit Farm is still taking Thanksgiving Pies pre-orders and is offering a list of special events during holiday season, including Micro Photo Sessions, Wreath Making, and more.
Stillman Quality Meats has a collection of Holiday & Thanksgiving products, including fresh turkey, charcuterie, prepared food, sides, sauce, and desserts available for pick-up or delivery.
Also some gift ideas for the host:
Chocolate from Wild Child Chocolate (Copley 11/26)
Coffee beans from Happy Beans Roaster (Davis & Copley Friday) or Cini Coffee (Kendall)
Honey and other bee products from Sherman & Cherie's Beezy Bees (Central & Copley)
Nuts from Q's Nuts (Copley)
Skin & haircare products from LaNubian Experience (Copley Tuesday)