A turkey has long been the ubiquitous choice for Thanksgiving entertaining (unless you are a vegetarian, and your preference lies with Tofurky). With approximately 46 million turkeys consumed in America each Thanksgiving, The National Turkey Federaton estimates that more than 690 pounds of turkey are consumed on this one thankful day alone. That’s a lot of bird!

Buying an organic turkey is the way to go - this means that it’s certified by the USDA and must be raised under strict guidelines: using no antibiotics or growth enhancers, and fed a diet of only organic feed. Plus, the animals must be given access to outdoors, which leads to healthier birds than those raised in crowded cages.

Markets like Whole Foods carry organic turkeys year-round, but make sure to call ahead as you may have to order one in advance for the holidays. Or you can find a turkey raised by a local farmer in your area. LocalHarvest.org allows you to search by zip code for farmers markets, grocers and farms in your area that sell organic turkeys for the holidays. The directory even lists online stores that will deliver these right to your home.

Once you’ve secured a bird, it’s time to move on to the edible accessories. Again, most grocery stores now carry a good selection of organic fruits and veggies but the most eco-friendly way to buy is locally at a farmer’s market, which cuts back on the fuel needed to ship produce. In addition to LocalHarvest.org, you can find a farmers market near you at FarmersMarket.com, which allows you to search by city and state for the market closest to your home.

If you are planning to make your own turkey but need help with the pesky details, we have found some prepared foods that will make your holiday a bit more manageable. Grown Right Organic Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce ($2.79) is a tangy and delicious must-have with turkey (and for those sandwiches the day after Thanksgiving.) Also try the Roasted Turkey Gravy Seasoning Mix ($1.29) from Simply Organic, if you aren’t the “from scratch” type.

Dessert is another part of holiday gatherings that can make even the most relaxed hostess sweat a bit. But fear not, for a pumpkin pie from semi-scratch, use Wholly Wholesome’s Organic Nine-Inch Pie Shells and Farmer’s Market Organic Pumpkin filling.

Or drink to be merry, as the case may be for some of us going home to spend time with the in-laws! Either way, wine and other libations are part of most holiday celebrations, so this year choose an organic varietal to serve your guests (or to bring as a hostess gift, if you are spending the evening elsewhere). The Organic Wine Company’s website is a great resource, especially if you are relatively new to organic wine. You can choose by color, type of vino or country of origin. Each bottle is described in detail and the site offers wnes in a spectrum of prices.

If your preferences lie with the bubblies, then make sure to pick up a bottle of Korbel’s new Organic Brut, made with 100% organically grown grapes (only $17.99!).

If you are hosting a large crowd, chances are you’re considering disposable tableware to cut down on the dish washing at the end of the night. Since Americans throw out nearly 100 billion plastic, paper and Styrofoam plates and cups each year - most of which are made from petroleum-based plastics, hazardous foam or chlorine-bleached paper - making an eco-friendly choice about how to serve your meal is very important.

VerTerra makes a beautiful line of compostable tableware that is made from pressed fallen leaves, without any toxic chemicals or glues. The plates, which come in a variety of different sizes, are sturdy enough that they won’t collapse under the weight of your turkey dinner and can be tucked into your compost bin when you are finished. The only problem is that they are so attractive, no one wants to toss them!

Rawganique has beautiful table linens in organic linen or organic hemp, that come in a variety of colors. Top them with a reclaimed fir basket (a take on the old cornocopia), and this recycled metal tealight holder - both from VivaTerra - and your table will be something the planet can be thankful for as well.

And don’t forget the organic flowers from Organic Bouquet, which will deliver eco-bouquets or centerpieces right to your door.

When invited to dinner at someone else’s house, it’s always nice to bring a little gift for the host or hostess. Especially this time of year, let them know you’re thankful for them (and the fact that they’re doing all the cooking!). A bottle of wine or champagne is always a good choice (see above) or right now we’re loving the beautiful glass-blown candle-holders from glassybaby.