Thanksgiving is right around the corner and for those who want to feature a farm-to-table celebration with family, Bridgeport Farmers Market has you covered. The market rolls out its winter season, beginning Sunday. Located inside Bridgeport Conference Center between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., the season debuts with a one-stop shop for holiday preparation.

 

“We will have more than 35 vendors with a full array of farm-raised meats, farm-fresh eggs and West Virginia honey, as well as a substantial amount of seasonal produce, so people will be able to find greens such as kale, sweet potatoes and yams,” said Debbie Workman of the Bridgeport Farmers Market board of directors. “We’ll also have apples for Thanksgiving pies, fall squash and our bakers this year have expanded our selection of baked goods and sweets.”

 

Among those bakers are Sew Kneaded, a Bridgeport-based business offering dinner rolls and breads; Magpie's featuring fruit pies and My Little Cupcake, soon to set up permanent shop on East Main Street and bringing to the market its popular variety of cupcakes and other baked goodies. This n' That Bakery will be selling macaroons, a first-time product of the market.

 

“Another baker – from Calhoun County – is Mary’s Gluten-Free Delights, featuring gluten-free and vegan baked goods, all which are just fantastic,” Workman said. “She has donuts, cookies and carob chocolates, which she will be boxing up for the holiday markets.”

 

Those wanting to get a jump start on the purchase of holiday gift items will be able to choose from a wide variety of jewelry, natural body products, handcrafted wooden items and other unique creations of West Virginia artisans.

 

Market offerings will also include Quantum Bean Coffee and brunch made by Bridgeport Conference Center.

 

“Reservations aren’t needed and they will also have a Bloody Mary bar, mimosas and a selection of West Virginia craft beer,” Workman said.

 

For marketgoers’ listening pleasure, Alex Heflin – making his debut at the market – will play folk, jazz and bluegrass tunes.

 

“We’re excited to welcome Alex to the market,” Workman said. “He’s a singer and songwriter from Morgantown who plays the mandolin and he actually played with one of our other musicians – John Posey – who will be here at the market next month.”

 

One of the most important features of this Sunday’s market is the annual Thanksgiving food drive.

“We encourage everybody to bring a non-perishable food item and drop them off at the market management table,” Workman said.

 

All donated food items will be delivered to Shepherd’s Corner, a Bridgeport food pantry which serves families in need throughout Harrison County.

 

Billed as the Ugly Christmas Sweater Market, the next indoor market will be held Dec. 16. People are encouraged to wear their most festive sweaters and, once again, shop for the upcoming holiday season.

 

Until then, individuals are encouraged to keep up to date on Bridgeport Farmers Market by following its Twitter account and visiting its Facebook page and Web site, bridgeportfarmersmarket.com. 

 

“We also hope everyone will come visit us on Light Up Night, Nov. 29,” Workman said.