Abbotsford’s Farmers’ Market will be allowed to open next month, but city and health officials will monitor the Jubilee Park event to ensure social-distancing protocols are maintained.
The province has declared farmers’ markets to be akin to food stores and thus an essential service.
Last week, council approved the issuance of a special event permit to the market, provided that health officials approve organizers’ plan to comply with provincial health orders.
The market plans on opening the morning of May 16 at Jubilee Park. But only food-sellers will be allowed to hawk their goods. Vendors of other goods are prohibited under regulations established by the BC Centre for Disease Control.
Vendors can sell fresh fruits, vegetables and eggs, frozen and pre-packaged food, along with edible plants and seedlings. Sellers are also being encouraged to pre-package foods.
No food sampling is allowed, and all activities that encourage people to assemble are banned. That includes live music.
Staff say city officials and health officers will be on-site on the first day to ensure compliance with social-distancing orders.
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