There are dozens of farmers’ markets in Arizona that are back in operation as we begin to better understand COVID-19—and even more small farmers that (that many of us) are looking for support as they grapple with changes the pandemic has brought.

If you are interested and able to support your local farmers’ market, fall is a great time to jump back into the routine, with the bountiful harvests fall brings. Some markets also accept SNAP and AZFMNP too. Not only are you contributing to a small business, but it’s an excellent opportunity to “eat local,” incorporate more veggies into your cooking and connect with your community, though it may look different from it did last year.

If you are not comfortable browsing in person, some markets are also offering pre-order and pick up—something that has rarely been done before.

 

The Markets

Here are 12 markets now open to shop in person. Check your market’s restrictions and changes before attending in person.

Ahwatukee Farmers’ Market*
4700 E. Warner Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85044
Sundays, 9am-1pm		 Carefree Farmers’ Market
1 Sundial Circle, Carefree, AZ 85377
Fridays, 9am-1pm
Downtown Chandler Farmers’ Market
3 South Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ 85225
Saturdays, 9am-1pm		 Old Town Scottsdale Farmers’ Market
3806 N. Brown Ave. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Saturdays, 8am-1pm
Roadrunner Parks Farmers’ Market*
3502 E. Cactus Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85032
Saturdays, 8am-1pm		 Sun City Farmers’ Market
16820 N. 99th Ave. Sun City, AZ 85351
Thursdays, 9am-1pm
Verrado Community Farmers’ Market
N. Market Pl. & W. Main Street, Buckeye, AZ
Sundays, 8am-1pm		 Uptown Farmers’ Market*
5757 North Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012
Saturdays, 8am-1pm
Peoria Night Market
9744 West Northern Avenue Peoria
Wednesdays, 4-7pm		 Sterling Grove Farmers’ Market
17193 West Montpelier Street, Surprise
Sundays, 10am-2pm
Arrowhead Farmers’ Market
7780 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale
Saturdays, 9am-2pm		 Downtown Phoenix Farmers’ Market*
721 N Central Avenue, Phoenix AZ
Saturdays, 8am-1pm

*Pick-up or pre-order option available

 

The Shopping Standards

Still, there are some changes to your shopping experience. According to Arizona Community Farmers’ Markets, there are new shopping standards for their locations—and relevant advice for any market you chose to visit. These coronavirus precautions include:

  • Shop with your eyes. As a customer, don’t touch something you will not purchase. Check with your vendor to see what they’re comfortable with.
  •  Limit using cash. To limit contact, many vendors prefer credit cards as a touchless option.
  •  Don’t eat on-site. Give some space between you and other shoppers. Consider taking the food home or sitting in your vehicle to eat.

Additionally, per the Center for Disease Control, maintain six feet of distancing between yourself and other shoppers, especially when people are not wearing masks. If you are sick, please stay home. If you are well, still wash your hands frequently, follow all signage and wear a mask. Remember, there is still a mandate in effect requiring masks in Maricopa County, Chandler and Carefree with a few exceptions.

Check out your farmers’ market online or in-person if you are interested or able to. Now is the time to support local businesses and local agriculture to make sure it continues, despite the challenges the pandemic is bringing.

 

 

 

Written by Haley MacDonell for the Arizona Sustainability Alliance