New directions for shopping
By Anne Davison
For those eagerly looking for activity at the Virden Farmers’ Market site on Sixth Ave., Noni Rolston, the market coordinator, assures: “Plans are well under way for having a Virden Farmers’ Market this year.” However, it’s opening later than normally - June 5 will be the first Friday market in Virden.
Like all other businesses, the market is under the shadow of COVID-19. The Manitoba government has updated and released new regulations and guidelines for Manitoba Markets.
“Early on, Farmers’ markets were thankfully considered an essential service. But the regulations stipulated only vendors selling essential items were allowed to sell at the markets,” says Rolston.
This rule has changed as retail stores are opening to the public. Now, all vendors are welcome to sell their wares at the market.
“This is a wonderful thing,” says Rolston, “as the Virden Market welcomes a variety of vendors.”
Postponing opening day to Friday, June 5 allowed time for some restrictions to lift and for organizers to prepare for a few changes in the outdoor venue.
One main change will be directional shopping, with one main entrance and a separate exit. This will help customers maintain social distancing, important for both customers and vendors.
Pre-ordering for order pick-up is being put in place. There will be a spot for customers to drive up and pick up their orders from their vehicle.
Vendors have strict requirements to keep health and safety a priority, so each vendor wanting to be part of the Virden market should check with Rolston in order to be prepared to serve the public.
Rolston says, “We look forward to seeing our customers and vendors very soon at the Virden Farmers’' Market.”
