The Claremont Farmers Market will return on Father’s Day, this Sunday, June 21, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Harvard Avenue. Market sponsors, the Claremont Forum, closed in March due to the risks from the coronavirus.

To comply with state and county public health guidelines, the market will offer only produce and pre-packaged foods, setting aside arts and crafts booths, live entertainment and food sampling until restrictions are further eased by health authorities.

“The Forum is increasing the number of staff and will temporarily be using volunteers from Claremont Kiwanis to encourage compliance to new health and safety measures that will reduce the risks of transmitting COVID-19,” the Forum shared in a statement. “Shoppers will be expected to assist the staff and volunteers by following directions that encourage one-way traffic and crowd control.”

Visitors must enter from one of two entrances at Harvard Avenue and Second Street. The number of shoppers allowed in the market at one time will be limited, so people will be asked to wait at the entrances and to maintain social distancing until a staff member permits entrance to the market. Organizers ask visitors to please “Shop & Go” to reduce wait times at entrances.

New hygiene practices will be in effect, with portable toilets and handwashing stations available. All staff and volunteers have been trained to enhance sanitation techniques and will be inspecting the toilets and handwashing stations regularly to ensure cleanliness, the Forum said.

Once inside the market, the Forum asks that all shoppers wear a face covering and move in a counterclockwise current around the market, while keeping a six-foot distance from other shoppers. Further, visitors are not permitted to touch the produce. It’s recommended to only send one family member to shop, when possible. Staff and volunteers reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.

“The Claremont Forum board of directors has worked hard to reinstate the Sunday market by researching, discussing and complying with all government guidelines to bring a healthy and safe market to the community,” market organizers shared. “Most of the profits from this community service provide the income to continue the Prison Library Project and the nonprofit Forum Bookshop/Gallery in the Claremont Packing House. It will be wonderful to see the market back on Sundays and to see our community support for the Forum and its programs.”