Despite our best efforts, the Town has made the decision to close down the Market until May 15th. Obviously this is very upsetting news as the Market is essential to supporting the local food system and the economy. A few solutions offered in the discussion were to space vendors, set up hand washing stations, space crowds, and require vendors to use gloves and hand sanitize. However the decision remained to keep it closed.

While grocery stores play an important role in the food system, Farmers Market offer several alternatives that the grocery stores cannot replicate. At Farmers’ Markets, the food does not travel a thousand miles, it is not touched by several hands, and the food is fresher! Grocery stores are not open air, there is a larger area for germs to spread and generally contain larger crowds. Per the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Farmers Market are exempt from the gathering rule. For many vendors at the Market this is their sole source of income and it supports their families and business. It is my firm belief that we should be doing everything we can on developing solutions while keeping the health and safety of the customers the top priority.

We are working on developing other ways to have your favorite market products accessible for you, so please stay updated.

Again thank you for your support, it means the world to us. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Julie King
Farmers Market Manager