The Davis Farmers Market turns into Gift Basket Central for the first four Saturdays in December, offering free baskets and wrapping of market items.
On Saturdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22, shoppers can assemble custom gift baskets, wrapped for free at the market’s Gift Basket Central station, near the large oak tree. The service is available to anyone who purchases three or more Davis Farmers Market items.
Looking for ideas? Besides the abundant produce, market sellers offer preserved jams and sauces, lemon curd, honey, balsamic vinegars, olive oils, dried herbs, nuts and nut butters. There are sweets like dried fruit or chocolate-covered almonds, pistachio brittle, toffee, chocolate truffles, and local wines. Other items include handmade soaps and lotions, beeswax candles, wreaths, hats and scarves.
There’s also “The Davis Farmers Market Cookbook, Revised Edition,” which features seasonal recipes from market produce. The author, one of the market’s founders, Ann. M. Evans, will be available for book-signings on Dec. 15 and Dec. 22. Cards featuring Evans’ art are complimentary with each book purchased.
At the Market Shed, there are shopping baskets, market-logo aprons, hats, totes, mugs and T-shirts. Shoppers have access to an ATM, and the Market Shed accepts credit and debit cards.
Still need inspiration? Market staffers are prepared with a list of gift basket ideas for chefs, bakers, party hosts, chocolate lovers, and youths, or with themes like breakfast or relaxation.
Local bands and carolers perform at every Saturday market, adding to the festive theme.
The Davis Farmers Market is at Fourth and C streets in Davis. Market hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The traditional mid-week Winter Market continues on Wednesdays, from 3 to 6 p.m.
For more information, visit www.davisfarmersmarket.org or the Davis Farmers Market Facebook page.
