BANFF – Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Banff Farmers Market has returned for another season.
“I am very appreciative of the vendors that have decided to come and do the market knowing that it’s not going to be as busy, knowing that I’m only allowed to bring in a certain number of people at a time,” said market manager Rene Geber.
The popular market made its return on June 3, following guidelines established by Alberta Health Services (AHS). While the market is still at its Central Park location, the look and feel will be a little different this summer, said Geber.
The market is fully enclosed and only has one entry and exit in order to regulate the traffic flow of visitors.
Geber said for now there is a limited number of people who will be allowed in the market area at a time, much like as has been done at grocery stores and other businesses.
Visitors to the market are encouraged to reserve a 30 minute time slot on line at eventbrite.com, but drop-in visitors are still welcome, but they will have to wait in line.
At the entrance, hand sanitizer will be provided and visitors are encouraged to wear masks. Only vendors will be allowed to handle products and visitors are to remain behind ground markers indicating safe distance.
“As the manager I am just following what AHS tells me to do – they’re the boss. They have been absolutely amazing to work with in order to get everything organized and approved,” Geber said.
Geber has been managing the market since 2011 and felt it was vital for the town to be able to have access to the market, especially during the ongoing health crisis.
“I think the town needed it. It’s a way to boost morale for everyone and the vendors needed it as a way to generate some income.”
After two weeks of operating the market, Geber is pleased with how smoothly everything has operated.
He said it was great to see the everyone acting in a courteous manner.
As for Canmore’s market, organizers are working with the Town of Canmore to secure a new location for the market to take place safely.
