The holiday season is upon us! No matter how you celebrate, one common theme resonates with us all: food.
Whether you have taken on the brave task of hosting a large meal or you plan to contribute to an office potluck or a dinner party, finding and preparing the right food, drink and gifts can be an arduous journey. Skip the guesswork! Giving the gift of local always tastes as good as it feels, and the Greenbelt Fund is here to help.
Discover the bounty of Ontario food and drink while exploring some of the best local farmers, producers and retailers below as you plan your holiday ‘feast’ivities!
Appetizers & Starters
Create your own local party platter with help from Stemmler Meats, pickled provisions from Sunshine Farms, quality heritage cheese from Thornloe Cheese, and delicious fresh bread courtesy of Whole Grain Hearth.
If you’re looking to add some authentic exotic flavour to your menu, consider a wide variety of ready-to-bake kebabs and meatballs from NMK Foods, sourced from Ontario’s beef farmers.
Sides & Mains
Nothing says the holidays like a fresh, organic, local whole turkey from Yorkshire Valley. Pair it with their local vegetables and some Earth Fresh potatoes and you’ll be set for success!
If you’re interested in something other than turkey – try Abate Rabbit Packers, or duck from Sheik Halal Farms.
Dessert
Baking your own after-dinner delicacies? Sheldon Creek Dairy has all the eggnog, milk and butter to keep everyone fighting for the last bite.
If you’re looking for the perfect gift to say thanks to your host, consider a gift basket from Rootham’s Gourmet Preserves.
Drinks
Ontario is known for excellent wine, and we’re proud of it too. The Grape Growers of Ontario have you covered! Head over to your nearest LCBO or winery to pick up a bottle of local wine for your host or guests to enjoy.
Friends and family visiting for the holidays? Check out a Brewery Discovery Route! Explore nine self-guided craft beer, cider and culinary itineraries in the beauty of Ontario and its protected Greenbelt. (Please drink responsibly and plan a designated driver.)
Looking for a non-alcoholic option? Cozy up by the fire with Geissberger Farmhouse Cider or check out Greenhouse Juice Co. to help with that obligatory post-holiday cleanse….
Eat well, be merry and support local—Happy Holidays from the Greenbelt Fund!