For 25 years, Vancouver Farmers Markets (VFM) has been supporting small farmers, producers, artisans by bringing them together with local communities. As this year’s summer market season begins, COVID-19 precautions have created challenges for Vancouver Farmers Markets but they have adapted to bring fresh, farm produce to local shoppers.
In keeping with the public health orders from Dr Bonnie Henry, this summer’s markets will be food-only, there will be no craft, flowers, or non-food nursery vendors or items available for sale. Physical distancing and safety measures will be in place, including limiting shoppers within the markets enclosure. Unfortunately, live music, entertainment and eating on site will not be allowed this season. Shoppers are asked to follow the “Shop, don’t stop” protocol in effect at grocery stores and other businesses, and to shop alone. Seniors, people with mobility challenges, and others vulnerable to COVID-19 will have the first 30 minutes of each market day for their exclusive shopping. To save time and interactions consider visiting VFM Online Store to pre-order and pay for your shopping ahead of time, then just pick up on site.
By June 3rd, six markets will be in operation around Vancouver:
Riley Park: Saturdays until October 24, 2020. 10am-2pm, 30th Avenue & Ontario Street.
Trout Lake: Saturday until October 24, 2020. 9am-2pm, 13th Avenue & Lakewood Drive.
Kitsilano: Sundays until October 25, 2020. 10am-2pm, 10th Avenue & Larch Street (Kitsilano Community Centre).
West End: Saturdays May 23 – October 24, 2020. 9am-2pm, 1100 Comox Street.
Mount Pleasant: Sundays May 24 – October 25, 2020. 10am-2pm, 8th Avenue & Guelph Street (Dude Chilling Park).
Main St. Station: Wednesdays June 3 – October 7, 2020. 2pm-6pm, 1100 Station Street (Thornton Park)
For more details on the 2020 limits and restrictions, and directions to each of the Vancouver Farmers Markets visit eatlocal.org