HARTFORD, Conn. — The holiday season is upon us and Governor Ned Lamont, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, and Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt would like to recognize the importance of our farm families to the state’s food system and economy. Connecticut’s farmers and agricultural businesses offer consumers an option for safe, socially distanced shopping while providing a diverse array of food, fiber, flowers, and shellfish.
“Connecticut farmers are an essential segment of our state’s economy and have been tremendous partners throughout the COVID pandemic,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “Beyond the food that we will gather around this Thanksgiving, Connecticut farmers have stepped up to provide families in need with affordable and nutritious food options. That is why, when preparing for this year’s Thanksgiving dinner, consider using Connecticut Grown products–from delicious turkey to incredible desserts and other beverages. Be sure to celebrate the holidays safely and choose Connecticut Grown.”
Gatherings around the Thanksgiving table may be smaller this year, however, you can still enjoy the bounty of the harvest season by purchasing Connecticut Grown products. Farms are offering online ordering, curbside pickup and delivery in some cases to ensure you can dress your table in a healthy, safe way.
“Our farm families are a key component of our state’s food infrastructure. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, so many of our farms have stepped up to meet the needs of our communities by donating pantry staples like eggs and milk. This holiday season, let’s give thanks to all our countless farm families by shopping local. From our farm wineries to our craft breweries, to our dairy and turkey farms, there are so many great ways to support Connecticut’s diverse agricultural system. Be sure to incorporate food or flowers from your favorite farmer into your holiday meal or centerpiece,” said Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz.
Turkey is the centerpiece of most Thanksgiving meals, but you can also find potatoes, carrots, winter squashes, onions, green beans, and even cranberries, locally for all your sides. Dairy products, including butter, milk and cheese are available at local creameries and grocery stores to create those delicious dishes. If you are looking for a new twist on the traditional stuffing, take a visit to the shoreline to pick up oysters for an oyster stuffing.
“Farmers are the backbone of our nation and this year has shown how critical our local food supply is,” said Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “We are fortunate to have a diverse array of agriculture in Connecticut creating a bountiful harvest and these small businesses have pivoted to ensure we have food on our tables during these challenging times.”
This traditional meal isn’t complete without a locally made pie. Polls show that Americans prefer pumpkin pie. However, the abundance of orchards in the northeast makes apple pie an iconic choice for many families. Round out your celebration by responsibly enjoying adult beverages available from Connecticut’s farm wineries, breweries, and distilleries.
You can find all of these products and more, by visiting CTGrownMap.com to locate a farm stand or farm store. Holiday farmers’ markets are also underway starting this weekend and can be found here.
Once you have enjoyed your feast, a trip to a Connecticut farm to find the perfect Christmas tree is an ideal outdoor activity. Many tree farms will open this weekend to bring holiday cheer to homes throughout the state. Finish your decorating with wreaths, garlands and poinsettias. Find a tree farm near you at www.ctchristmastrees.org.
From all of us at the State of Connecticut, we wish you a healthy, safe holiday and extend our gratitude and appreciation to all of our farm families.
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) mission is to foster a healthy economic, environmental and social climate for agriculture by developing, promoting, and regulating agricultural businesses; protecting agricultural and aquaculture resources; enforcing laws pertaining to domestic animals; and promoting an understanding among the state’s citizens of the diversity of Connecticut agriculture, its cultural heritage, and its contribution to the state’s economy. For more information, visit www.CTGrown.gov.
–Connecticut Department of Agriculture
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