The Citiblog

Union Square Greenmarket is the Ultimate Destination for a Holiday Feast
November 24, 2024, 11:57.20 pm ET

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Photos: Cititour.com

There’s something magical about autumn in New York City, especially when the city’s iconic transforms into a vibrant cornucopia of harvest delights. As the crisp air settles in and Thanksgiving approaches, there’s no better place to gather the fresh, local ingredients that will elevate your holiday meal. This fall, the Union Square Greenmarket is the ultimate destination for everything from the juiciest heirloom squash to the crispiest, most flavorful apples—and of course, a turkey (or duck!) worthy of a Thanksgiving table or Christmas meal.

Open year-round, the Union Square Greenmarket operates Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but fall is when it really shines. Peak harvest season is in full swing, and the bounty from over 140 regional farmers, fishers, and bakers is nothing short of spectacular. It’s a feast for the eyes and senses, with vibrant displays of seasonal produce, artisanal breads, and even farmstead cheeses that seem to have been made just for this time of year.

In true holiday spirit, the market is bursting with fall’s best—heirloom squash, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes all make their appearance, each more perfect than the last. Gorzynski Ornery Farm is a favorite for these, offering up hundreds of varieties of fresh, local vegetables, many of which are hard to find anywhere else. And for those looking to get their apple fix (because let’s be real, what’s fall without apples?), head straight to Breezy Hill Orchard. Their apples are perfect for pie, and their freshly pressed cider is the ideal drink to accompany that first bite of stuffing. And don't pass up on the Apple Cider doughnuts.

Let’s talk about the bird. If you’re looking to wow your guests with a Thanksgiving centerpiece, Hudson Valley Duck Farm has the tender, rich duck that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. But for the more traditional turkey lovers, there are options from Quattro's Game Farm along with goose and pheasant. And for farm-fresh cheeses head to Moxie Ridge Farm & Creamery

And then, of course, there are all the accoutrements—the jams, the pickles, the things you didn’t realize you needed but can’t imagine your meal without. Beth's Farm Kitchen has an array of tangy pickled vegetables, chutneys and preserves that’ll add a little zip to your plates. For something sweet, Andrew's Honey which has been working honey bees since the 1800s. The golden honey perfect for drizzling over roasted root vegetables or stirring into your favorite homemade desserts.

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a little something sweet, and the Greenmarket has that covered, too. Francesca’s Bakery and Bread Alone offer freshly baked goods that are the perfect base for stuffing or for mopping up gravy. For dessert, Bread Alone’s pies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with flavors that scream autumn—Hudson Valley Apple, Raspberry Apple Crumb, Pumpkin and Bourbon Pecan.

While you shop, don’t forget to soak in the atmosphere: the Greenmarket is a true New York experience. With more than 60,000 weekly shoppers, it’s a vibrant hub of energy where you can mingle with local farmers, chat about the season’s best picks, and perhaps even snag a recipe or two. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out the Greenmarket Education Station for cooking demonstrations, tastings, and tips on how to incorporate the best of fall into your dishes.

So, whether you’re planning a traditional spread or experimenting with new holiday flavors, the Union Square Greenmarket has everything you need to make it one to remember. From the freshest vegetables to meats, cheeses, and baked goods, it’s all here, just waiting for you to take home and make your own. Come for the produce, stay for the experience—and leave with the best ingedients for a special holiday feast that your guests will thoroughly enjoy!


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