Oh my gourd, it’s almost time for one of the best days of the year: Thanksgiving. When you first think of this holiday, chances are Aunt Susan’s green bean casserole, football games and the Thanksgiving day parade come to mind. And while those are all valid parts of the Holiday, let’s not forget about the star of the show: the turkey. If you’re still looking for the perfect bird for the holidays, check out these four local turkey farms.
Bindel Farms.Located in Spencer, Bindel Farms is a family-farm raising pastured chickens, turkeys, cows, pigs and a variety of vegetables. The farm also boasts broad breasted bronze turkeys that are pasture raised without antibiotics. Turkeys are available for $3.75 per pound and weight, on average, between 18 and 20 pounds, with smaller or larger ones available. To reserve a turkey this Thanksgiving, a $25.00 deposit is required. 6736 River Corners Road, Spencer, 440-570-8349
Brunty Farms.Jeff and Melanie Brunty began their journey as Brunty Farms over fifteen years ago. Committed to quality and sustainability, they began selling pasture-raised eggs and meats at the local farmers’ markets and from their farm. As the farm grew, expansion was needed, and The Farmer’s Rail at Brunty Farms was born as a result. The artisanal meats and butcher shop places an emphasis on “feel good for you food” and takes pride in a mom and pop shop mentality. Each turkey at Brunty Farms receives adequate pasture to graze and the remainder of their diet is non-GMO whole grains from local farmers. Whole turkeys are available for Thanksgiving and Christmas via preorder on their website. 1572 Cleveland-Massillon Road, Akron, 330-576-3333, thefarmersrail.com
Harvest Bell.Harvest Bell Farm is a family-run farm that raises their poultry in a humane, stress-free environment. This year, Harvest Bell will feature turkeys that range from 16 to 28 pounds, and will available for sale a week before Christmas at $5 a pound. 11278 Bell Road, Newbury, 440-781-59, harvestbellfarm.com
Plum Creek Farm.A family run farm located in Valley City, Plum Creek raises beef, pork, fresh fruits and vegetables along with turkeys. All animals are free range and ethically raised, “We offer fresh hormone and antibiotic free, pasture raised turkeys,” says worker Amie Sprinkle. Blum Creek offers turekys at $4.40 at pound and are available for preorder on their website. Turkeys can be picked up between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Nov. 23. 66 Station Road, Valley City, 330-483-0222, plumcreekfarmohio.com
