Start your shopping list and get meal inspiration each week with ASAP’s roundup of what’s fresh at farmers markets. Although this report focuses on vendors at Buncombe County markets, many products mentioned can be found at markets throughout the region. Want to get this report in your inbox each week? Subscribe to ASAP’s Weekly Farmers Market Report newsletter. Looking for a yearlong view? Check out ASAP’s produce seasonality chart.
Our fall communications intern, Alex Alesi, closed out his internship by making a list—and checking it twice—of the fabulous finds to be found at the Holiday Bazaar at the site of North Asheville Tailgate Market! In doing so, he got a little nostalgic about his tailgate time with ASAP. Keep reading for his report, reminiscings, and future local food plans.
The holiday season has officially begun, and area farmers tailgate markets have caught the spirit! Many markets’ monikers even reflect the time of year; for example, North Asheville Tailgate Market becomes the Holiday Bazaar! What exactly can you expect from the tailgates turned one-stop holiday shops?
You could say this week has a split personality: the rush of days leading up to Thanksgiving and the (minus Black Friday) more relaxing days just after. Fortunately, area farmers markets are happy to cater to both sides!
*UPDATE* As of this morning, Balsam Gardens and Which Came First Farm still have turkeys available. Contact them directly; details below. Hickory Nut Gap Farm and East Fork Farm have sold out and are no longer taking reservations. East Fork Farm is, however, still taking reservations for Christmas goose.
Want to make a local Thanksgiving meal this year, starting with a farm-fresh bird? The following farms are taking turkey reservations now; visit their websites and/or contact them directly for more details and to order. Many farms are also at local tailgate markets and can provide additional info or register you there.
Note: This is not necessarily a complete list. We will update it to include more farms as we gather that information, as well as share when farms have sold out. You can also browse farms offering turkeys (year-round and at the holidays) via our online Local Food Guide.
Shopping for Thanksgiving this week and weekend? The following Asheville-area farmers markets are open and ready to serve you so that you can serve up a fresh local feast. Expect meats, cheeses and produce like apples, greens, roots and winter squash, along with baked goods and gifts galore!
It’s not just deja vu! Most cool-weather veggies last seen in spring are back again at markets. Joining returning roots like turnips and greens like kale this week are Asian greens and cauliflower.
We’ve got a fall riddle for you: What are sure to make this week a sweet week at area farmers tailgate markets? (Hint: look left or up!)
The broccoli buzz is back at area farmers tailgate markets! Just like this spring, over the weekend shoppers could be heard sharing where they snagged their stalks and be seen scurrying to vendors’ booths hoping to buy some before it sold out.
Turning your home into a haunted house? Or an homage to the harvest? Head to area tailgate markets this week for all your fall decorating needs.
Week’s cold start got you thinking warming stews or other hearty and meaty meals? Pick your protein at area farmers market this week—and through the end of the year!