No Reopening Date Determined Yet for Local Farmers Markets

After deliberation from Fairfax County officials, the fate of farmers markets around Reston and Herndon is still undecided.

Many farmers markets were expected to open within the next few weeks but were indefinitely delayed because of safety concerns over COVID-19, according to Fairfax County’s website.

Though this decision will likely negatively affect local vendors who sell goods at these markets, it is unclear what the long-term economic impact might be.

People who still want to support vendors in this time of crisis can check out places like Sterling-based Baguette Republic, which allows customers to order freshly baked goods online. Customers can score six personal size ciabatta rolls for $6, according to the website.

Ashburn-based Roots to Rise is another local food producer that offers pickup at several locations. Customers can order fresh juices, breakfast and lunch, the website said.

Fairfax County Chairman Jeff McKay issued a statement today (April 14) during a Twitter Q&A saying that county staffers are trying to come up with a configuration that allows people to shop while still practicing the six-foot social distancing requirements.

Currently staff is working on a future plan that meets social distancing requirements for farmers markets using health and social distancing related guidelines and a plan that we can configure things in such a way as to open in a safe manner on a case by case basis. https://t.co/h7H61UCcay

— Jeff McKay (@JeffreyCMcKay) April 14, 2020

Photo via Anne Preble/Unsplash