The Omaha Farmers Market will be making some changes this season in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Markets will open the first weekend in June and will follow social distancing guidelines. Only locally grown produce and pre-packaged food will be allowed to be sold. The first hour of each market will be designated for seniors, people with underlying health conditions, and expectant mothers.
New regulations will include spacing vendors out by ten feet and controlling the size of crowds within the market area.
“We know this is a challenging and uncertain time for growers, farmers, businesses, and for the community," says spokesman Vic Gutman. "The Market has been working hard to establish health and safety policies and public health requirements. We want to stay open to support our local vendors during these tough times, but we also want to make sure we are keeping our community safe.”
The Farmers Market will take place in the following locations:
- Saturdays (June 6 – Mid-October, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
Old Market - City Parking Garage – Top Level (1011 Jackson Street)
- Sundays (June 7 – Mid-October, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Baxter Arena Parking Lot 26 (2425 S 67th Street), across from Aksarben Village
“We are proud to be providing local growers, farmers and businesses the opportunity to continue to sell their goods during this pandemic,” Gutman says. “But we want to be sure the community understands that this is not meant to be a social gathering, but rather an opportunity to shop local.”
There is more information at omahafarmersmarket.org.