2020 Homewood Farmers Market Begins Saturday With New Rules

HOMEWOOD, IL — Farmers Market season in Homewood begins Saturday, June 13 under new rules and regulations amid the coronavirus pandemic. The market, held on Martin Avenue between Ridge Road and Chestnut Road, will have one hour set aside for seniors and customers with disabilities and debut a curbside pickup option.

"We had to reconfigure and refocus the entire market with public safety as our highest priority," said Kate Duff, organizer of the Homewood Farmers Market.

Changes this year as a result of the pandemic and the necessary social distancing required include a single entrance and exit on Chestnut Road and a one-way route within the market for customers.

In accordance with the Illinois Farmers Market Association and working with the Cook County Department of Public Health, the market in downtown Homewood has been reconfigured as an in-and-out, no touch market. Customers will not be allowed to touch the produce until it is purchased.

Customers will be limited to 30 at a time, with no children under 16 nor animals unless they are service dogs allowed. All customers must remain six feet apart at all times and everyone must wear a face covering.

"With the enhanced sanitation and physical distancing measures that we've put into place, we're confident that customers will experience the safest food shopping environment possible," Duff said.

Curbside pickup will be available from most vendors for the first time and payment can only be accepted in the form of a credit/debit card or exact cash. No change will be given.

Vendors who are offering the curbside option are listed here on the village of Homewood website.

"We are all looking forward to the day when we can return to the family-focused social event that everyone loves," Duff said. "But as we weather this public health crisis, all of our vendors are grateful for the continuing support of our community."

The market will be open every Saturday from June 13 through Oct. 10 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., but the 8 a.m. hour will be limited to seniors and customers with disabilities who require additional assistance.