November marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, and not just for gift giving. Thanksgiving, a holiday for feasting and being thankful, is a great time to shop at local grocers and retailers for the freshest foods to serve at your Thanksgiving dinner table. Whether you plan on gathering as a whole family or keeping it smaller, be sure to fill your table with goodies from local Novato businesses this year.
Impress your guests’ tastebuds with a spread of delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Trader Joe’s is a mecca for holiday finds, and truly has no shortage of pumpkin spiced goods. You’ll find a slew of turkeys, including organic options and brined, all-natural young birds fed an all-vegetarian diet, with no animal byproducts and no antibiotics. Looking for special family meal deals? Whole Foods is another go-to for many Novato shoppers. You can order an entire family meal online for in store pick up.
Another excellent selection of fresh produce comes from Rojas Market, a traditional Mexican market located on Grant Avenue. Sticking to a budget? Grocery Outlet is stuffed with bargains including all types of groceries from organic foods to general merchandise like Thanksgiving decor to impress your guests.
Add some warmth and colors to your Thanksgiving table with a floral arrangement from a local florist, like Natalie & Daria’s Flowers and Gifts, selling flowers filled with rich and radiant colors, or an autumn glaze bouquet from Morning Glory Florist.
Raise a glass and toast to the holidays with local wine, beer, and spirits. Indulge in Trek Winery’s 2018 Switchback Blend – a Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and a touch of Pinot Noir. If craft beer is more up your alley, Beercraft offers an extensive selection of hard-to-find craft beers, including ales. Try the Thanksgiving-inspired “Alvarado Street Give Thanks” IPA, a creamy body, light bitterness and big on hop flavor. Or stock up on spirits from BevMo at Vintage Oaks to craft your after-dinner cocktails.
Diving into dessert, we’re thankful Novato has no shortage of amazing bakeries. Pick up one of Creekside Bakery’s pumpkin nouveau pies topped with whip cream, dark chocolate, pomegranate, pistachio and sweet alyssum. Need gluten-free or vegan options? Head to Flour Chylde GF Bakery and snag a vegan and gluten-free pumpkin cheesecake made with almond cheese and pumpkin filling on a cocoa walnut crust.
Need a last minute place for extra holiday guests to stay? Check out Inn Marin, Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn or Courtyard Marriott. They all have openings and will make your visitors feel right at home. If you’re looking for local events to keep everyone entertained, head to the Visit Novato events calendar.
While you’re shopping around town, complete your holiday shopping list with amazing gifts on Small Business Saturday while putting your dollars to work for your community.
Whatever you’re looking for this Thanksgiving, it’s clear that Novato has you covered. Whether you’re a long time Novato native, visiting family and friends in the city, or making your way through on a trip to wine country, the Shop Local team wishes you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving!
