Frequently asked questions: Covid rules (from 2021)

Some of this information comes from the Mass Farmers Markets organization. Also read our Covid-19 safety rules for you, for us, and for our vendors.

Covid FAQ from 2021 the second pandemic season. This is here for historical purposes.

Why do I have to wear a mask?

• The Mass. Department of Public Health and the Belmont Department of Health require masks to stop the spread of Covid-19.

• Masks must be worn properly: they must cover your nose and mouth, and be closed on the sides.

• Even healthy people and vaccinated people must wear masks in the Market. This includes vendors and Market staff.

• I wear a mask to protect you and you wear a mask to protect me. Our vendors and staff wear masks to protect you.  We need you to help protect our vendors and staff so there will continue to be a farmers’ market for you to shop at.

Why can't I eat in the market?

• Masks are required, so eating and drinking is prohibited

Why can't I bring my pet to the market?

• Pets attract people and encourage socializing. A perfect stranger may walk up and interact with you and your pet. Is that person going to maintain social distancing when they do that? Maybe not.  

Why can't I enter through the exit – The vendor I want to go to is right there

• We’re sorry that the new setup of the farmers’ market means you have to do a bit more walking. We know that this can be challenging for shoppers with health or mobility issues. Let us know if you need help.

• We are required to control the number of customers in the market at a given time. We do that by counting people as they enter and exit. If you enter through the exit, that throws off the count.

Why is there a one-way path?

• A one-way path makes social distancing easier.

Why do I see a few people walking around the market without a mask?  Why aren’t you doing anything about them? 

There are a few exceptions to who is required to wear a mask: [is this still accurate?]

• Children under the age of two should NOT wear a mask.  

• For children between the ages of two and five, it is at the parent’s discretion. 

• There are also certain medical conditions that can prevent someone from wearing a mask.  

• Market staff are doing everything they can to ensure that everyone who is required to wear a mask is doing so.

Why aren’t there more vendors at the farmers market? Where are some of my old favorites?

• The Town of Belmont has allowed us to expand the Market area, but the extra space is for social distancing. That means we have slightly fewer vendors than in pre-pandemic times.

• Some vendors don’t come until later in the season Subscribe to our newsletter to get the schedule every week.