Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and many of us are already working on our shopping lists for the big feast. Of course, for most traditional Thanksgiving meals, the “bird” is the word, and picking out the right turkey is a matter of serious consideration. However, it’s the supporting players–all the sides, dressings, desserts and beverages–that really tie the meal together.
And did you know that many of our favorites can be found at their freshest right here in Florida? The Sunshine State is home to a thriving agiculture industry, including snap beans, sweet corn, squash, sweet potatoes, celery, citrus, tomatoes and other crops in high demand at the Thanksgiving table. Many of these crops are grown on small farms that are close to where you live. They’re grown by farmers who are a vital part of your community. Buying local produce is the best way to get the freshest food for your meal, while supporting the farmers who contribute to the local economy.
Florida’s Farm-City Week (November 20-27) is a great opportunity to learn about agriculture in your community and stock up on stock up on the ingredients for a memorable holiday meal.
What is Farm-City Week?
To recognize and celebrate our local farmers, the week leading up to Thanksgiving is designated National Farm-City Week in the U.S. The Florida Farm Bureau sponsors events in many counties, including farm tours, food drives, luncheons, banquets, farm family recognitions, social media campaigns and student essay and poster contests. Many UF/IFAS Extension and FAMU Extension offices join in the festivities, with 4-H events, educational demonstrations, food drives and open houses. Farm-City Week is a perfect time to learn about growers in your area and show your appreciation for their work. You can find Farm-City Week events in your community by contacting your local Farm Bureau office: https://floridafarmbureau.org/farm-city-week-events/
In addition to Farm-City Week, put these other locally-grown food stops on your shopping list:
Visit Your Local Farmers Market
This is a great way to have a family outing, meet local farmers and find the freshest ingredients for your holiday feast. Farmers markets at this time of year are festive places where you can enjoy entertainment, free samples, and fresh-from-the-farm seasonal produce like snap beans, squash, sweet corn, dairy, citrus, honey, and other holiday ingredients grown by farmers in your area. You can find a list of community farmers markets at Fresh from Florida: https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Buy-Fresh-From-Florida/Community-Farmers-Markets
After the Big Meal–Explore Agritourism
If you’re looking for something to do after Thanksgiving that’s more relaxing than a movie or a Black Friday sale, consider rounding up the family for a weekend drive to a local agritourism business. Many Florida farms, ranches, and vineyards open their doors to visitors for special events, U-pick farms, tours, hayrides, holiday lights, and retail shops where you can buy gifts. The Florida Agritourism Association has a mobile app you can download to find agritourism sites in your area.
Learn More about Local Agriculture
Florida’s agriculture is unique in its diversity, with over 300 commodities grown in our state, including fruit and vegetable crops, livestock, horticulture, renewable energy, aquaculture and forestry. To get a better understanding of where your food comes from, how it gets there, and how it impacts your life, visit UF/IFAS Extension online or at our offices in each of Florida’s 67 counties.
At UF/IFAS Extension, we act as the personal connection between the University of Florida, the nation’s #1 research institution for agricultural and natural resources, and our local farmers. We bring new knowledge, technology and best management practices to improve crop production, conserve water and sustainably grow the food that we enjoy on Thanksgiving and all year round.
This Thanksgiving, think fresh and think local!
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