When Will Seattle Farmers Markets Reopen? | Eater Seattle

"I monitored plans to reopen the U District Farmers Market on Easter weekend under new safety protocols—modified layouts to maintain 6 to 10 feet between booths, regular sanitization of “high touch” areas, and distribution of protective gear—which NFM said had received clearance from county and city public health and sustainability offices. Despite detailed coordination with vendors and a Zoom briefing, the mayor’s office abruptly placed the reopening on hold, causing immediate disruptions as farmers and food producers were told to stop harvesting, baking, and distributing goods to Seattle, and underscoring the city’s decision to treat markets as permitted events subject to stricter limits. NFM emphasizes that markets are essential food access points and warns of severe economic consequences for farms (roughly 80%+ of household income), and it continues to negotiate with city officials while urging support through the Good Farmers Fund and direct vendor purchases." - Gabe Guarente