Here’s how the 2020 Omaha farmers markets will work

The Omaha Farmers Market will kick off June 6 and 7 with many new guidelines. Here’s the rundown. You can also download a full list of the changes here.

Old Market location and hours

• On Saturdays, the market will take place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., but will move into the top level of the city parking garage at 10th and Jackson Streets.

Aksarben location and hours

• On Sundays, the market will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Parking Lot 26, 2425 S. 67th St.

New general policies

• All are encouraged to avoid touching their face.
• Patience is encouraged as the new procedures are put into practice.
• If shoppers, vendors, volunteer or staff are ill, stay home.
• This year’s markets will only feature produce, herbs, vegetable starter plants, meat, dairy, eggs, breads and a variety of prepared foods, including jams, honey and salsa. Customers can download a list of additional ways to purchase from vendors.
• The first hour of the market will be designated for seniors, people with underlying health conditions and expectant parents.
• Pets are banned from the market until further notice.
• The market encourages families to send one member of the family to market. The market is restricting unaccompanied minors under the age of 18.
• Customers are encouraged to pre-purchase from vendors and pick up at the market, if possible.

Social distancing rules

• Customers are asked to not handle any products before purchasing them, and to thoroughly wash any food items before consuming them at home.
• Customers are encouraged to wear masks while shopping.
• Shoppers are encouraged to avoid congregating, to keep at least a six foot distance from other shoppers and to avoid forming lines at vendor booths if possible. If a line forms, shoppers are asked to respect social distancing.
• Two customers maximum will be allowed at each booth at any given time. A chalk line six feet back will be designated as a waiting area for additional customers.

Vendor changes

• Samples will not be available.
• Vendors are required to wear gloves and protective masks.
• Vendors must have a hand washing station at their booth.
• Vendors will seal or package all non-produce food items.
• It is recommended to pre-package produce items and store inventory in boxes or coolers that can be disinfected.
• Vendor stalls will be spaced ten feet apart.
• Vendors will have one staff member for handling product and a second for handling payments.
• The signature requirement for purchases will be removed when possible. Shoppers should consider virtual payment or card use over cash.

Volunteer changes

• The information booth will have a hand washing station and hand sanitizer, and will be regularly cleaned throughout the market
• Staff, managers and volunteers will wear protective masks
• Volunteers and staff will control how many customers enter the market.