Cool Wilmington, an event management and production company that has been producing local events in the downtown area for the past 15 years, partnered with the city of Wilmington to take over the operation of the Riverfront Farmers Market.

Cool Wilmington principal James Christopher said that plans for the takeover were in the works prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The pandemic has had an impact on the market, however; the city had temporarily suspended permits that allow for street closures for public events such as the market, and therefore it was relocated to the vacant lot adjacent to Waterline Brewing Co., 721 Surry St. in downtown Wilmington.

Christopher said his company has a good working relationship with the brewery, and officials there were immediately receptive to the idea.

“We’re learning to be inventive,” Christopher said.

The market opened May 2 as drive-through only, but early last week the city loosened some of its restrictions and the market was able to operate this past Saturday as a walk-through site.

“This location allows us to really monitor the flow of shoppers and we’re taking lots precautions,” Christopher said. “We require vendors to wear a mask and gloves, and to wipe down surfaces after every transaction. We limit the number of people within the market and have a lot of signage and staff to help with the flow of traffic and distancing.”

He said the market is also asking attendees to wear masks for everyone’s protection and to help keep everyone at ease. Shoppers can expect to see regular vendors such as Alchemy Ranch, Backyard Gardeners, Beartrack Farms, Castle Hayne Farms, Davis Seafood, Lewis Farms, Panacea Brewing Co., Shelton Herb Farm, and many of the other vendors they are familiar with.

After May 16, Christopher said, the market will expand to include more artisans.

“We’re trying to make the market a little better each week as we adapt to the changing regulations and guidelines,” Christopher said. “This is an evolving situation and we’re putting safety first because keeping people safe is paramount.”

The Riverfront Farmers Market at Waterline Brewing Co. is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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