Three decades in, Cashiers Farmers Market is more than a place to shop—it’s a place to gather, savor, and stay awhile.

Since immigration is on everyone’s minds these days, it’s worth remembering that Thanksgiving itself is, at its heart, an immigrant feast — and the wines we pour tell that story just as vividly as the food on the table.

From cellar dinners to curated seminars, these wine-focused gatherings during Highlands Food & Wine Festival bring guests closer to the stories behind the bottles—where conversation flows, meals are crafted with intention, and every sip carries meaning.

You needn’t spend your Thanksgiving in the kitchen! Keep this list handy.

Justin Burns’ Butternut Squash Gratin is a creamy, sage-infused side perfect for cozy holiday meals and elegant gatherings.

With house-made dough, locally sourced ingredients, and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, Slab Town Pizza offers a gourmet twist on the classic pie experience.

A once-silent smokehouse on Highway 64 has been reborn as Duck Hawk Provisions—a vibrant blend of gourmet market, café, and community haven that’s quickly become Cashiers’ newest gathering spot.

On October 18, Highlander Mountain House hosts its beloved Saturday oyster roast, blending fall foliage, Pelican Oysters, craft brews, and live bluegrass into a festive Highlands tradition.

As Highlands Food & Wine fills the town with flavor and festivity, two special dinners at On the Verandah invite guests to gather around the table for evenings of exceptional wine, inspired cooking, and stories shared in
good company.