Salida Farmers Market Update: Open for 2020 Season With Some Changes

The Salida Farmers Market is back in business for the 2020 season with some changes to comply with state and local health regulations, due to the coronavirus known as COVID-19.

Photo courtesy High Country Greens

At the beginning of March, as the state responded to the pandemic, farmers’ markets were categorized as a critical business in the state of Colorado. They fall under the same category as grocery stores and produce stands. During that time, joint recommendations were developed by the Colorado Farmers Market Association and Colorado Department Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) for Farmers Market operations.

The Salida Farmers Markets have been working with Environmental Health who have overseen the market in both food safety and oversight of compliance with COVID-19 recommendations.

The Salida Colorado Farmers Markets operate in two areas: Alpine Park in Salida and South Main Town Square in Buena Vista. Functioning as a vibrant hub for supporting the local economy, small business and our regional foodshed, the markets typically feature the freshest local foods, arts and crafts, live music, and a positive, family-friendly environment.

Logo courtesy The Triangle Oasis Farm in Salida

Like last year, the Market will be held on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., June through October.

Due to the pandemic reopening phase the State of Colorado is in at the moment, there are some changes since last summer. They include limiting vendors only selling foods and other items considered essential such as soap. Vendor booths are spaced eight feet apart. This allows for social distancing between customers as well as vendors.

Vendors are required to wear masks. Customers are asked to practice social distancing and wear masks. Sampling has been eliminated and prepared food must be sold as to-go. Handwashing stations have been set up, along with hand sanitizer at each vendor’s tent. As the summer progresses and updated health orders are rolled out, further changes may be unveiled, ideally to further enhance the experience.

More information about the Salida and Buena Vista Farms Markets and a list of current vendors is here.