Eat Local for Thanksgiving

Did you know that back in 2009, Pierce County started a Eat Local for Thanksgiving campaign to encourage county residents to buy foods locally to help sustain our local farmers, be environmentally friendly and to support our local communities?

Read the official county proclamation here.

The campaign also came with a special pledge. Here it is:

I pledge to support Puget Sound farms and add local food to my Thanksgiving meal this year. By supporting food production that is local, humane, protective of the environment and preserves farmland, I'm investing in sustainable agriculture practices to build a healthier food system.

Food for thought for this Thanksgiving season, right?

So where can you get fresh local foods this time of year to bring to your Thanksgiving feast? And beyond?

Let's take a look.

Farmer's Markets

Proctor Farmer's Market (Tacoma)

Why here: This large and lively farmer's market is a hearty one; the market runs each Saturday until Dec. 17 in Tacoma's historic Proctor District. At this market you will find local and seasonal produce, meats, prepared foods, entertainment, and other special events. Be sure to click on the link above to plan your visit.

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 17

Produce Delivery

Terra Organics (Orting, Tacoma)

Why here: Why not have fresh, local, and seasonal produce delivered right to your door? Terra Organics is a subscription based service that delivers boxed produce (of various sizes and contents) to many locations in Pierce County on a weekly basis (you can also arrange to pick up your boxed produced at specific locations if you choose).

Using Terra Organics easy to navigate online store, you can select the box that best suits you and your family. You can also customize your box as well. When you look at the website, be sure to check the exclusive Pacific Northwest box for the most local selections. For more details on this innovative business, please click on the link above to get started.

Farm Stores

Terry's Berries (Puyallup)

Why here: This long time organic farm grows all year round has a farm store that features seasonal produce and other goods. Open all winter, you can stop by for some local treats to add to your holiday table. There is also still time to join their fall farm share. Please see website for more details on the store, produce available and the fall and spring shares by clicking on the link.

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Local Spirits

Trillium Creek Winery (Key Peninsula, Home, WA)

Stringtown Cellars (Eatonville)

Why here: Want some wine for your holiday meal? Did you know that in Pierce County we produce great local wines? Here are two to check out. Trillium Creek Winery located in Home, Washington on the Key Peninsula, creates great wines on their beautiful property.

They have a delightful tasting room open year round and are known for creating their low sulfite wines. Stringtown Farms create their own speciality wines from their own grapes as well as from Eastern Washington. They also feature a tasting room as well as wonderful lavender products from the adjacent lavender farm. Please see each link for more details on each winery, tasting room hours and driving directions. 

Thanks for doing your part Patch readers by supporting local businesses and food growers. Happy LOCAL Thanksgiving!