You’re reveling in the coveted role of guest rather than host this Thanksgiving. Even though the stress over creating a perfectly moist turkey and mountains of fluffy mashed potatoes is not yours, you can still contribute to the festivities. Don’t show up to dinner empty-handed – pick up one of these Missouri-made products, a great accompaniment to any holiday meal. Your host will thank you, and perhaps you can score an invite for next year.
A Toast
The aforementioned turkey and mashed potatoes are sure to create a thirst easily quenched by a variety of Missouri libations. Sweet yet tart, St. James Winery’s cranberry wine is a delicious and festive choice for the holidays, or choose one of these award-winning Missouri wines. For the beer drinker, Logboat Brewing Company’s Peggy Jean is a porter with notes of brown sugar, vanilla and pecans. Bring a bottle of Still 630 Expedition Rum and make Hot Buttered Rum to keep your fellow guests warm and merry.
For a non-alcohol option, pick up a pound of locally roasted ‘Tis the Season Roast from Kaldi’s Coffee to brew; it offers notes of vanilla and baking spices. For the kids, grab a six-pack of Fitz’s Root Beer and Pumpkin Pop.
Savory Snacks and Sweets
Since oven space is often scarce on Thanksgiving Day, it’s best to bring something ready-to-eat, like the winning combination of Backer’s Potato Chips and dip prepared with a mix from Little Pleasures Foods. Burger’s Smokehouse offers a variety of Missouri-made cheeses and sausages, perfect for pre-dinner snacking.
To satisfy the after-dinner sweet tooth, arrive with one (or two or three) of Peggy Jean’s made-from-scratch pies – guaranteed to make you everyone’s favorite dinner guest. Almost too beautiful to eat, a signature assortment of Christopher Elbow Chocolates is an impressive way to end a holiday meal.
Something for the Host
Flowers are the ultimate thank-you gift that lasts for days after the dishes are washed and leftovers are devoured. Buy fresh-cut stems from Ozark Mountain Flower Truck, found at various locations around Springfield through mid-December, or order online.
1Canoe2 offers a variety of beautiful-yet-functional gifts, including calendars, planners and home goods. To aid with post-holiday clean up, Sammy Soap offers handmade, all-natural soaps and essential oils produced by Missourians with disabilities.
Missouri-made products are a special way to contribute to Thanksgiving dinner and say “thank you” for the invitation. Find some of these products and many more on the Buy Missouri website and shop local this holiday season.