The Port Coquitlam Farmer’s Market is re-opening just in time for a spate of good weather.
Starting tomorrow, July 16, the Port Coquitlam Farmers Market will return outdoors in the parking lot next to Leigh Square in the city’s downtown on Thursday afternoons, from 3 to 7 p.m.
It will feature local goods and farmed products but there will be some protocols to observe, according to the city of Port Coquitlam.
For example, masks will be required for vendors and customers who are unable to maintain a two metre physical distance. As well, customers will be required to do a complete health self-assessment and return home if they are feeling unwell.
As for shopping, customers will be able to select the items they wish to purchase, but vendors will handle and package the products prior to sale.
There will also be a one-way entrance to the market from Leigh Square with a one-way exit out to Donald Street.
The outdoor market will run Thursday until Oct. 8.
Consumers who prefer an online shopping experience, the market will also continue to offer curbside pick-up from the Gathering Place in Leigh Square.
To purchase on-line, residents can browse and shop for fresh food and produce at www.farmersandmore.org and select a pick-up time at the Gathering Place on Thursdays between 3 and 7 p.m. Orders must be submitted by Wednesday by 11:30 a.m. to be ready for pick-up Thursday the same week.
Customer parking will be reserved along Donald Street on Thursday afternoons.
The Port Coquitlam Farmers Market and the online food distribution hub is run by the Fraser North Farmers Market Society.
Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West said the market is popular, and while it will look different will still provide shoppers with the local fresh food they crave.
“Farmers Markets are a vital way to provide residents with access to affordable, fresh and healthy food choices while supporting local farmers and businesses,” he stated in a press release.
To get updates on what will be available each week, residents are encouraged to sign up for the Farmers Market email newsletter at www.farmersandmore.org.
In Coquitlam, the farmers market operates Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot at Dogwood Pavilion, and in Port Moody, the farmers market operates at the Port Moody Recreation Complex Wednesdays from 3-7 p.m. More information is available here.
