<p>Planting Seeds of Holiday Cheer</p> | December 23, 2024

Fresh & Local:

Planting Seeds of Holiday Cheer

The holidays are here, and what a year it’s been! As we look back on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude for everything we’ve accomplished together. And we couldn’t have done it without you!

As we get ready to ring in Market Umbrella’s 30th year, we’re reaching out to ask for your support in this season of giving. Whether you’re picking up fresh produce at the market, spreading the word about our mission, or making a donation, you’re helping us keep local food thriving in our community.

This holiday season, please consider giving a little something to Market Umbrella. Every gift—big or small—makes a huge difference, supporting programs like Greaux the Good, Market Mommas Club, Marketeers Club, and Meet Me at the Market, all of which help our farmers, vendors, and families grow and thrive. It’s your generosity that keeps our markets running and our community strong.

So, as you make your holiday lists and check them twice, keep Market Umbrella in your giving hearts. We can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together in 2025!

Want to spread some cheer? Donate today online or by texting CCFM to 44-321.

Picks of the Week:

Christmas Thyme is Here

Happy holidays from the farmers, fishermen, bakers, and all your friends at the CCFM! Market will be closed Tuesday, December 24th and Thursday, December 26th so that our vendors can enjoy Christmas day with their loved ones. Sometimes we forget there is a real person behind every product, and every effort, big or small, that it takes to get it to us. The day before the market, many farmers pick their crops or fishers go out on the boat so that their products are as fresh as can be. But the docks are closed, family is in town, and even the farmers need a break every now and then.

Fret not - we’ll be back this Sunday, 12/29 for the City Park Market! Stock up on groceries for your New Years Eve parties before we close again on Tuesday 12/31.

Note: RealCycle will not be at the Sunday City Park Market on 12/29.

Happy Chanukkah!

“The Jewish Festival of Lights is a little late this year, beginning at sundown on December 25th. Chanukkah celebrates perseverance against all odds, and we honor this by lighting candles each night, sharing gifts, playing dreidel, gambling with gelt (the chocolate coins) and, of course, enjoying delicious potato latkes! Learn how to make your own latkes with one of my favorite Bon Appétit Test Kitchen videos, or treat yourself to artisanal, one-of-a-kind latkes from Txow Txow Modern Pintxos (a.k.a Latke Daddy) at one of his pop-ups around town.” - Maxwell, Communications Specialist

Beautiful, Scented Christmas Decorations

We’re fortunate to live in a region where citrus season coincides with the holiday season, making it the perfect time to try Martha Stewart’s DIY Pomander Balls for a fragrant home. While our northern friends may need to buy imported oranges or clementines from the store, we can head to the market and pick up locally grown satsumas, grapefruits, and even fragrant Meyer lemons from L’Hoste Citrus or Cherry Creek Orchards. It’s the perfect way to add a festive touch to your home while supporting local growers!

Congrats to Sprout!

Next time you’re at the Thursday market, be sure to take a walk down the Greenway to check out Sprout NOLA’s new pavilion, built in partnership with the Tulane Small Center. This pavilion will be the centerpiece of their upcoming garden project, expanding community garden space for more growers. The new 18,000-square-foot site—six times the size of their current space—will feature a mix of green space, gardens, and facilities, with completion expected in Fall 2025.

Vendor of the Week:

Nori Guys

Kenny Truong originally had a stall at the Pythian Market, which was under the culinary direction of Nigel Pais. After the market closed, Pais and Truong teamed up to launch a new venture, hosting bar pop-ups around the city and appearing at local festivals. Nori Guys focuses on bringing a fresh approach to enjoying great sushi, using locally sourced ingredients. Visit Nori Guys at the Thursday Mid-City Market to try their variety of fresh sushi tacos or wonton nachos!

Recipe of the Week:

Bon Appetit’s Famous Latkes

Crispy, golden, and perfectly tender, these potato latkes are a holiday favorite. Made with simple ingredients you can find at the market—like fresh potatoes, onions, and eggs—this recipe from Bon Appetit is sure to impress. Serve them with applesauce or sour cream for the ultimate comfort food!