Where to Buy Whole Turkey Year Round: The Complete Guide

As the owner of a popular food blog, I often get asked by readers where they can buy whole turkey year round, not just around the holidays. I totally get it – turkey is delicious, nutritious, and versatile enough to enjoy all year long!

That’s why I decided to put together this complete guide on where and how to source whole turkeys no matter the season. I’ll cover everything from grocery stores and wholesale clubs to online mail order and local farms so you can easily find high-quality whole turkeys for Sunday dinners, weeknight meals, special events and more.

Getting Started: Why Buy Whole Turkey?

Before getting into the specifics on sourcing let’s look at why it’s worth seeking out whole turkeys beyond just Thanksgiving and Christmas

• Flavor – Many turkey connoisseurs swear that whole turkeys have a superior, juicier flavor compared to other cuts. The bones, skin and fat all contribute to a moist, tasty meat.

• Versatility – A whole bird provides breast meat for sandwiches tenderloins for quick cooking leg quarters for soups and stews, wings for apps and so much more. You get lots of meal options from one turkey.

• Cost Savings – Buying a whole turkey is often cheaper per pound compared to individual cuts and parts Going whole can stretch your food budget

• Extra Parts – Don’t throw away the neck, giblets, backbone and carcass! Simmer them into bone broth or use for other recipes. Reduce waste by using every bit.

The bottom line is whole turkeys provide great flavor and excellent value while minimizing waste – what’s not to love? Now let’s look at the best places to find them.

Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

For those looking to buy a whole turkey on short notice, grocery stores and supermarkets are a convenient option. Most major chains like Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Publix and more carry whole frozen turkeys year round. Some even offer fresh turkeys, though availability may depend on the season and store location.

When shopping the supermarket turkey case, opt for turkeys labeled “all natural” and minimally processed without injections. Make sure to calculate the proper size bird for your gathering – figure on about 1 pound per person. And don’t forget to pick up any sides, produce or other ingredients for your meal!

While offering convenience, selection at regular grocery stores may be more limited than specialty retailers. But for an impromptu turkey dinner, the supermarket can be a quick and easy choice.

Wholesale Clubs

For the best prices and largest birds, wholesale clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club are great spots to buy whole turkey in bulk. These warehouse retailers carry fresh and frozen turkeys up to 25 pounds, so they’re ideal for feeding large groups and stocking up the freezer.

When shopping the wholesale turkey case, look for high quality birds raised without antibiotics or added hormones. Simple ingredients and minimal processing help ensure great flavor. Examine the packaging date and pick the freshest option.

Joining a club for access and buying large turkeys at bulk prices can yield major savings. Just be sure to have enough freezer space! Portioning out leftovers helps reduce waste.

Local Butcher Shops

Don’t overlook local butcher shops when looking to buy whole turkey! Many butchers source fresh birds locally and offer more variety than grocery chains. You may find heritage breed turkeys, kosher and halal options, wild turkeys, and custom cutting.

Chat with the butcher about sourcing, feeding regimens and processing methods. Ask if the turkeys are enhanced with injections. Selecting premium birds from small farms helps support local agriculture.

While prices may be higher than mass retailers, the quality and custom options at local butchers make it worthwhile for turkey lovers. Be sure to order ahead of holidays and peak seasons.

Online Mail Order and Delivery

For ultimate selection and convenience, more companies now offer mail order turkeys nationwide. Specialty purveyors like D’Artagnan, Holy Grail Steak Co, Porter Road and others ship fresh turkeys direct to your door.

Online buying lets you choose from heirloom breeds, organic and free-range birds, weights ranging 10-40 lbs, and more options than local stores. Order a fresh or frozen turkey and have it arrive just when you need it.

Websites also provide helpful guidance on choosing turkeys and provide recipes and cooking tips. However, shipping costs may apply which can impact budgets. Ensure someone will be home to receive the package.

Direct from Local Farms

For the freshest, most local whole turkey, buying direct from area farms is the way to go. Search for “turkey farms near me” and visit their website or Facebook page to learn about ordering.

Buying straight from the farm gives you access to pasture-raised, heritage breed turkeys grown sustainably. You’ll get amazing flavor and can feel good about supporting small farmers. However, supply is limited so order early.

Pickup from the farm or local farmers markets is required since they won’t ship. Be sure to reserve your bird well ahead of when you need it. Going direct to the farm takes more effort but pays off in turkey quality.

Tips for Picking the Best Whole Turkey

Once you’ve decided where to buy from, keep these tips in mind when selecting your whole turkey:

• Opt for all natural and organic over mass-produced birds when possible for better flavor.

• Examine the packaging date and pick the freshest turkey available.

• Allow at least 1 pound per person, adding extra for leftovers and bones.

• For optimal juiciness, never buy a frozen turkey more than 2 months old.

• Heritage and free-range turkeys have smaller breasts but more rich, savory flavor.

• Let the retailer know if you want a fresh or frozen bird and when you need it.

• Make sure to account for proper thawing time in your plans, if buying frozen.

Storing and Thawing Your Turkey

You found the perfect turkey – now proper storage and thawing are key for safety and quality:

• Store fresh turkey no more than 2 days before cooking. Keep frozen until ready to thaw.

• Always thaw in the refrigerator, allowing 24 hours per 4-5 pounds of turkey.

• Place the turkey on a tray or pan to catch any juices during thawing.

• Never refreeze a raw turkey after thawing. Cook within 1-2 days.

• Don’t rinse or wash raw turkey, which can spread bacteria. Thorough cooking kills germs.

Proper handling prevents illness and keeps your turkey tasting its best.

Whole Turkeys Aren’t Just for Holidays!

While everyone thinks of roasting whole turkey for Thanksgiving, Christmas and other festivities, I hope I’ve shown you that enjoying quality whole birds isn’t limited to the holidays.

With so many excellent sources to buy from like grocery chains, warehouse clubs, local butchers, online purveyors and direct farm purchases, you can find an amazing array of fresh and frozen whole turkeys year round.

Choose the right size bird for your gathering from reputable sellers offering natural, organic, free-range and heritage breed options whenever possible for premium quality and taste.

Store and thaw your turkey properly, and then get ready to experience moist, flavorful meat in every bite!