GREEN BAY (NBC 26) -- The Saturday Farmers Market in downtown Green Bay will open in June and organizers say they will ensure the market stays safe amid the coronavirus pandemic.
A news release for the event says farmers markets are considered an essential business, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, and may remain open to provide food.
This year's farmers market in Green Bay will look a little different due to coronavirus. Organizers of the Saturday Farmers Market say the Saturday market will close all seating intended for consuming food, prohibit food samples, and follow physical distancing requirements.
The farmers market will also not permit non-food vendors or vendors selling nonessential items. Music, tabling, activities, promotions, or pets will also not be permitted.
Organizers for the market say they will provide handwashing stations or hand sanitizers for vendors and customers. They plan on increasing the spacing between vendors to allow customers and vendors to maintain a safe distance.
To help manage crowds and minimize entry points, the Saturday Farmers Market will be moved from South Washington Street into two nearby parking lots, the Riverwalk Plaza parking lot and the Washington Professional Building parking lot. The total number of vendor booths will be decreased from 150 to 75 each week.
Organizers for the market are asking customers to minimize the number of people they bring to the market, don't bring children and don't bring a resusable bag. New resusable BayCare Clinic bags will be provided at the market. Customers are also asked to wear a cloth face covering and use hand sanitizer. Those who are sick are asked to stay home.
To learn more, including alternative shopping options online, click here.
