The Dallas Farmers Market is a find-it-all-here destination for some of the city's best events, from art shows to foodie fests to holiday markets. It's a go-to spot year-round, but things start getting extra festive in November.
One of Dallas' top culinary events kicks off November 2, as Chefs for Farmers BITE Night and Knife chef John Tesar take over the Dallas Farmers Market. The Top Chef alum hosts the cooking showdown, which will feature some stellar past competitors from the reality cooking show, offering their takes on Texan meats and cuisine. Bring an appetite and get ready to eat your fill.
Still hungry? There are plenty more food events coming, starting with the Holiday Market that opens right after Thanksgiving. On November 25, you can celebrate National Cookie Day (don't forget to snag a free tote bag!), and December 2 is National Red Apple Day (temporary tattoos are the gratis swag that day, while they last). Also mark down December 2 for the Tamale Festival — a Texas tradition.
While you're there, snag the opportunity to design a giftable fruit basket and pick up some fresh produce for yourself. Sweet potatoes, green beans, eggplant, butternut squash, pecans, oyster mushrooms, and black-eyed peas are all in season, and all guaranteed to be needed somewhere on your holiday menus.
For culture vultures, the DFM has Julia Jalowiec’s one-woman art show on November 10. The Boho Market can help you get a jump on holiday shopping November 11-12, while a special pop-up reappears on December 9.
All throughout the Holiday Market, be sure to make time to sample apple cider, sip from the hot chocolate bar, and pause for a picture with Santa. After all, adults have wish lists too, right?
And 'tis the season for parties, be they sponsored by the Dallas Farmers Market or simply held there. The Market's European-style food hall is a hidden gem for corporate and social gatherings, thanks to its central seating areas that are surrounded by local artisanal food vendors. You can book one or multiple food vendors, making your event a progressive dinner with a custom-designed menu.
For even bigger events, The Shed's open-air pavilion can accommodate more than 2,700 people, or more than 5,000 by spilling into the surrounding areas. But the area can also be partitioned, making it ideal for smaller, more intimate events. The space is full of personality, with a mix of outdoor and indoor to create a unique atmosphere. The giant, quiet ceiling fans create a gentle breeze during still-warm fall events, but there are also overhead radiant heaters, misters, WiFi, potable water, and plenty of 110 & 220 electrical outlets to help power whomever you might book to perform on the large built-in stage.
Another option is renting out Mudhen Meat and Greens, the next-door restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table fare and killer handcrafted cocktails and local beer. No matter which venue you choose, count on easy and ample parking, amazing skyline views, and close proximity to Big D's other attractions and nightlife. Reach out to Susan Armanovs at 469-607-4596 or susan.armanovs@dallasfarmersmarket.org for more info on booking the Dallas Farmers Market for your next event.
Dallas Observer Tacolandia took over the Dallas Farmers Market.
Kate Weiser Chocolate is closing all locations. Photo courtesy of Kate Weiser 