CEDAR RAPIDS – The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance has made the decision to delay the opening date of the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market presented by Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust. Originally planned for Saturday, May 23, organizers are now planning the first market for Saturday, June 6. The current plan is for all eight markets of the season to still occur with the rescheduled market to take place on Saturday, Sept. 5, over Labor Day weekend.
Currently, the new 2020 Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market dates are June 6, June 20, July 4, July 18, August 1, August 15, September 5 and September 19. All markets run from 7:30 a.m. to noon.
The spread of coronavirus and its impacts on public gatherings continue to evolve by the day. The decision to adjust market dates as outlined above was made with knowledge that is available now. The Economic Alliance understands that future adjustments to the market may be necessary for the health and safety of all.
“Rescheduling the first market was a difficult decision that was not taken lightly,” said Ellie Evans, Events Planner, Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “We know how much the markets mean to this community, our business vendors and our Downtown businesses. We’ll make safe, responsible decisions in conjunction with public health officials and the City of Cedar Rapids. We will continue planning and doing everything in our control to ensure we’re ready for these events.”
This will be the 15th season of the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market presented by Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust and plans to feature nearly 200 vendors in the heart of Downtown Cedar Rapids. This season’s current venue can be found between First and Fourth Avenues SE and between First and Sixth Streets SE. Vendor locations and the online vendor map will be available in the coming months.
Like last year, the Downtown Farmers Markets plans to offer a later September autumn focused market.Attendees and vendors appreciated the opportunity to purchase fresh apples, cider, gourds, pumpkins and other fall produce that are sought-after, and the later fall date, Saturday, September 19, of the final market better accommodates this part of the growing season.
Recognized as one of the largest open-air markets in the Midwest and rated as a best in class farmers market by the American Farmland Trust, the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market vendors offer traditional market products, such as produce, flowers, meats and cheeses, along with unique artisan gifts, prepared and specialty food items and baked goods.
The Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers’ Market is produced by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and presented by Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.
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The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance’s mission is to drive economic, workforce and population growth strategies and to help businesses succeed.