EP Farmers Market Returns But With Strict Social Distancing Rules

EVERGREEN PARK, IL — The Evergreen Park Farmer’s Market will be back in business but with strict social distancing guidelines to curb the spread of coronavirus. The farmer’s market opens May 21 at Yukich Field, 89th Street and Kedzie Avenue and is slated to run from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 22.

Farmers markets are considered “essential business” because they are involved in the distribution and cultivation of food, and are allowed to remain open during Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order in effect through May 30.

Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

Shoppers should be prepared for a "new normal" under social distancing guidelines developed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture designed to protect market employees and consumers. Vendors will be limited to agricultural products (flowers, seeds, plants), produce and cottage foods (honey, jam, fruit pies). Don’t expect to squeeze the tomatoes to check for freshness because touching products is prohibited.

Direct sale products such as Tupperware and Avon, jewelry, clothing, accessories and crafts, will be prohibited for now, as well as consumable foods prepared on site. No gathering, sitting, entertainment, eating on site or other activities will be permitted.

Expect to find portable hand washing stations at farm stands, one-way aisles and plenty of hand sanitizer. There may be fewer stands to allow adequate space for social distancing while shopping and waiting in line. Be ready to order when it’s your turn and bring your debit/credit card or exact change because it won’t be offered.

All vendors must sanitize their stands regularly; wiping down tables, terminals, cash boxes, etc. with approved disinfectants. Market employees and volunteers are also required to wear face coverings and gloves. A statewide executive order requires anyone aged two and over to wear a mask in public.

Wash all produce purchased at the farmers market thoroughly before eating or cooking.

For more information on the state’s social distancing guidelines for farmers markets, visit the Illinois Department of Agriculture.