Yakima’s Farmer’s Market To Open May 24th

What's not to love about a farmer's market?  Fresh air, fresh fruits and veggies, delicious samples and all those people...wait...crowds?  Are ya sure?

A press release from the Downtown Association of Yakima (DAY) says the opening of Yakima's market has been moved from Mother’s Day Weekend on May 10th to May 24th.  The two-week delay provides time to address state mandated COVID-19 safety measures. Downtown Association of Yakima (DAY) Executive Director, Andrew Holt, says “ We are trying to balance the need for economic vitality with our responsibility to guarantee the safety of our community members, volunteers, and vendors.”

The Governor’s restriction on public gatherings does not include farmers’ markets as they are considered essential businesses in the same category as a grocery store. However, in essence, they are still a public gathering and thus, many safety measures must be installed and managed.

Unlike other markets or grocery stores, DYFM features vegetables, fruit, flowers, cheese and other products direct from the producer (grower). This means what you get is direct from fields to the market — no extra stops and minimal handling.

DAY reports there will be many safety measures taken, such as the market will have a designated entrance and exit, movement through the market will be only one-way, established social distancing will be enforced along with no sampling or touching of products.  Shoppers will be asked to limit their time at the market and mandated hand washing stations will be in place., and so on. This will require more financial investment and volunteers.

For updates on the market: Website: www.downtownyakimafarmersmarket.com