Port farmers market opens Saturday but not for pets under new rules

The Port Washington farmers market will open Saturday, with vendors filling Main Street between Franklin and Wisconsin streets from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

But this year’s market may not be quite the same as it has been in years past, thanks to Covid-19.

According to a plan submitted to the city, Port Main Street Inc. will not allow pets or smoking in the market this year, and customers will be discouraged from handling produce before buying it.

Reusable shopping bags will be discouraged, and vendors will be required to wear gloves and masks.

Customers will also be encouraged to wear face coverings, but not required.

Social distancing will be encouraged, and one customer will be allowed in each selling area. No sampling will be permitted.

Sections of the market with less than six feet of aisle space will be closed to customers, and hand sanitizing stations will be set up on the east and west ends of the market.

There will be no seating for customers, and music will not be played.