A Steady Crowd At Newtown Farmers Market
On its third day of the season, July 7, the Newtown Farmers Market was busy just moments after opening.
Its 2020 season began on June 23. The market is set to be open at Fairfield Hills, from 2 to 6:30 pm, every Tuesday this summer.
Some changes for the market this year, due to COVID-19 pandemic precautions, include enforcing social distancing, separating vendors by 12 feet, and limiting the market to food vendors only. Masks that cover the nose and mouth must be worn by vendors and shoppers alike, as previously reported by The Newtown Bee. Pre-ordering is encouraged through the vendors’ websites or Google forms. Links to the websites are available online at newtownctfarmersmarket.com.
Shoppers are also asked to not handle goods; using Venmo and credit cards for purchases is encouraged; and people are asked not to linger. Natalie McCraigh of Wonderland Jam, a market manager, said in an e-mailed update on July 6 that many vendors are now accepting cash and the market is held rain or shine, unless there are high winds or thunderstorms.
On July 7, the grounds where the Newtown Farmers Market is set up was busy with people keeping their distance while also stopping by the vendors’ tents. Short lines were quick to move, and people observably maintained their distance in the early afternoon.
This year’s vendors include Aquarian Caterers, Beldotti Bakery, Carrot Top Kitchens, Daffodil Hill, Down to Earth Apiaries, Eagle Wood Farms, Oronoque Farms, Real Food Share, Shortt’s Farm & Garden Center, South Ridge Farm, Sugar Magnolia Bakeshop, Upper Grassy Greens, Waldingfield Farm, Wonderland Jam, and Why Not Farm, according to the market’s website.