It's the kind of good news that many have been waiting for.

The city of Swift Current and the Swift Current & District Farmer's Market Association announced yesterday that their annual Market Square will be opening to the public on June 13, 2020.

The recent changes to the government of Saskatchewan's second phase of its reopening plan allow the opening of farmer's markets within some very strict guidelines; changes that allowed the city to make this move despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Some changes to the market necessitated by COVID-19 include:

  • Limiting the number of people present in the market area to ensure safe physical distancing;
  • Availability of hand-washing stations and a general increase in cleaning and disinfecting requirements;
  • No seating available, musical performances or children's activities permitted in order to minimize social gathering.

Additionally, vendors will only be able to sell pre-packaged food or food that is intended to be consumed off-site.

While some of the elements that add to the “Market experience” will not be available when Market Square opens in June, the City will continue to monitor provincial guidelines as they evolve and update the operating plan accordingly.

Swift Current online will have more on this story, including comments and reactions from all involved as the market moves closer to opening.