Del Ray Farmers Market Gets Expanded Space As Vendors Return

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Del Ray Farmers Market will move to a larger outdoor space to accommodate additional vendors and social distancing in the time of the pandemic. The market runs Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The city had allowed the Del Ray market and other farmers markets to offer in-person sales when phase one reopening began on May 29. Now as Alexandria moves into phase two, it will operate in the parking lot behind United Bank in addition to Pat Miller Neighborhood Square at Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues.

The additional area lets the growing number of vendors space out. Vendors offering produce will remain at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, while vendors with meat, fish, dairy, baked goods, and prepared foods will be in the parking lot across the street.

"Bonaventure has donated space in the parking lot across Oxford for us to use in order to have a larger footprint in order to maintain social distancing," said Market Manager Pat Miller in a statement. "We're thrilled that we can continue to care for our community by offering the opportunity to purchase fresh, local food in a safe, outdoor market."

Because in-person sales have resumed, many of the farmers' markets vendors are back. Current vendors include Biggs Family Produce, Threeway Farms, Shlagel Farms, Toigo Orchards, Smith Meadows Sustainable Farm, Woofbowl, Tom's Amish Cheese Store, Honeybrook Farms, Fork and Hoe Farm, Paella To Go, Conchita's Salsas, Fresh Crunch Pickles, Grace's Bakery, Baked by Yael, St. Elmo's Coffee Pub, Hog Haven, Fresh Crunch, Cold Country Salmon, Kings Mushrooms, Ana's Twist and Ashbank Farm.

Customers are encouraged to pre-order when possible and limit time in the market. Social distancing guidelines are in place, and customers are asked to wear masks. Farmers markets must follow the governor's phase two guidelines.

"We truly appreciate your continued patience - lines are long and we're readjusting every phase to try to make this as safe and efficient a process as possible," the farmers market said in a Facebook update.

To place pre-orders, see the list on the Del Ray Farmers Market website or below.