Mar 20, 2020
North Carolina farmers’ markets open to provide food essentials

Farmers’ markets are an essential part of our nation’s food system and farmers are doing their part to have fresh produce and meats available for consumers.

“We have had many questions about whether farmers markets remain open,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “The four state-operated markets in Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro and Asheville are open, along with a number of certified roadside stands and markets. These outdoor supermarkets are important venues in the food supply chain.”

According to guidance from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, farmers markets fall under the same classification as grocery stores and are considered an important source of food for local communities. Farmers Markets who choose to operate during the COVID-19 outbreak are required to follow the same federal or state mandated directives as grocery stores on issues such as social distancing or crowd size, if indoors.

To help ensure the safety of farmers market vendors and visitors, staff at the four state-operated farmers markets have implemented additional safety measures. Staff are encouraging social distancing and proper hand washing. There is no evidence to suggest COVID-19 is a foodborne illness. Out of additional caution, staff also is encouraging reduced contact with products and prohibiting product sampling.

“Some of our vendors have adopted curb-side pick up and pre-packaged produce boxes to keep proper distance and limit contact,” Troxler added.

About our markets:

State Farmers Market, 1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Note: The State Farmers Market Restaurant, NC Seafood Restaurant and the Market Grill are closed.

WNC Farmers Market, 570 Brevard Road, Asheville

Hours: Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Note: The Moose Café is closed

Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, 1801 Yorkmont Road, Charlotte

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market, 2914 Sandy Ridge Road, Colfax

Hours: Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.