The Penticton Farmers Market will be returning to its usual spot in the 100 block of Main Street on Saturday, May 30 after a months-long hiatus due to COVID-19.
However, the market look quite different than in years past.
While the market will be back in its usual location, customers can expect that it will look much different than it used to, with many precautions in place.
READ MORE: COVID-19: Penticton Farmers’ Market cancelled for April and May
“We are excited to be back in the 100 block,” said market manager Katherine Harris, “but restrictions will be in place to ensure that customers treat our market more like a grocery store than a place to socialize.”
The perimeter of the market will be taped off with entry to the market restricted to 50 customers at a time, using one entry point at Main Street and Lakeshore Drive. Pedestrian traffic will flow one-way through the market to the exit points at Link Road and Westminster Ave. West. Hand sanitizer and hand washing facilities will be abundant, said market organizers on the market’s website.
Physical distancing will also be expected.
“Customers will be expected to follow similar rules to what is currently in place at other grocery stores,” said Harris.
Signage and markers throughout the market will reinforce physical distancing and remind customers to regularly wash or sanitize their hands, refrain from gathering, and wash their produce when they return home.
No consumption of food or drink will be permitted within the market.
Customers will be permitted to use their reusable bags but must bag their own items.
Typically, the Penticton Farmers Market would have up to 80 vendors each week, but to maintain physical distancing requirements this number has been scaled back to 45, with only produce and food products permitted for sale at the market.
A minimum of three metres will separate each vendor and enhanced cleaning procedures will be in place, according to a post on the market’s website. All vendors will also be required to wear masks.
Despite the market being physically open, customers are still encouraged to place orders online before 11:59 p.m. on Thursdays at localline.ca/penticton-farmers-market to minimize their time at the market. Orders will be picked-up from individual vendors at the market.
The market will be open May 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
READ MORE: Penticton Farmers Market switches to online marketplace
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