The City of Prince George is providing the permits that are allowing both Prince George farmers markets to return to downtown Prince George on Saturdays.
- The Wilson Square Community Market has an occupancy permit to operate on Third Avenue between George Street and Queensway. This permit was issued in late April and the WSCM has been operating its outdoor market in Wilson Square since May 2, 2020.
- The Prince George Farmers Market Association will resume this Saturday, June 6, inside the facility at 1310 Third Avenue as well as on Quebec Street between Second and Third avenues. A portion of the parking lot at Second and Quebec is also being made available by the city for market vendors.
Farmers markets are considered an essential service under the BC state of emergency and are expected to comply with hygienic practices and physical distancing to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. These guidelines are outlined by the BC Centre for Disease Control: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/community-settings/farmers-markets. In response, both markets have developed plans to ensure physical distancing between patrons and vendors, and are capping attendance at 50.
Patrons are encouraged to stay home if they are sick, maintain physical distancing, wash their hands, and use contactless payment methods. Many market vendors also provide opportunities to order online and provide home delivery services.
The Wilson Square Community Market has returned to Wilson Square this year after several years at the Pine Centre Mall parking lot. The Prince George Farmers Market Association is beginning its third season at Third and Quebec.