Minto Farmers’ Market has successful season despite pandemic

MINTO – This year's Minto Farmers’ Market season was quite successful “in spite of the restrictions and limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” organizers report.

Though the pandemic delayed the opening until June 20, “after the initial opening, attendance grew almost every week, as more people got out and about and word spread that the market was open,” states a report presented by market committee chair Luke Hartung to Minto council on Dec. 1.

Hartung noted the season was extended into September for the first time “and I think that went over well. The plan is to do that again for the future,” he told council.

Other modifications included:

• limiting market activities to selling goods, thereby removing annual events, such as the Strawberry Social;
• re-organization of vendor booths from closely situated on the near side of the museum to being dispersed around the whole exterior of the museum, to accommodate distancing requirements; and
• extra sanitation measures, cleaning regimens, and signage to maximize safety.

Masks, sanitizer, trays for money, garbage cans and bright red t-shirts to identify vendors were provided.

“Overall, customers and vendors alike were cooperative in wearing masks, using provided money buckets, and following any and all recommendations to make the market safe,” the report states.

"Many regulars stopped by the market, pleased to see it operating … and happy to enjoy the fresh produce and goodies every week.

"The market also welcomed many visitors from out of town who were making stops at all Wellington County Markets, or even some just looking to get out of the city for the day.”

“2020 was a bit of a tumultuous year,” Hartung told council, adding, “We were able to go ahead with the market which was great.”

Marketing and community development coordinator Taylor Kuenen said, “Even though it was a bit of a crazy year for everything, I think the market did go very well.

“It was well run … You’ve got a good bunch of vendors there.”

The 2021 Minto Farmers’ Market season will open on June 12, Hartung reported.

Trivia Nights will be held once a month until March, with the first set for Dec. 18.

Some of the proceeds will be going to the Minto Farmers’ Market, but the majority will be raised for community groups in the surrounding area.

Due to the pandemic, vendor fees remained at $10 for the 2020 season despite original plans to increase the charge.

The 2021 season will see the fees increase from $10 to $15.