A large outdoor antique market just south of Guelph will open Sunday for the first time this season, with added directional signage, physical distancing and hand sanitizer throughout.
The Aberfoyle Antique Market is now able to celebrate its 60th year in operation when it opens its gates to the public on Sunday.
The owner of the popular open air flea market has been busy putting in place protocols and amenities to allow it to reopen safely, said a message on its Facebook page on Friday.
“Thank you for bearing with us as we learn to adapt these practices while keeping the Market the low-key, funky and friendly place that you know,” said the Facebook post.
Face masks will be required to enter the market and will be available for $1 at the entry gates.
Sanitizing stations have been added to each vendor booth, hands-free towel and soap dispensers were added to the bathrooms and plexiglass shields are in place at service stations throughout the market.
The restaurant located in the heart of the 20-acre market will be open for take-out only.
Antique lovers are asked to leave dogs at home as the market adjusts to new protocols.
Kids play areas in the market will be closed according to regulations by Public Health.
The market usually operates for 27 Sundays from spring until fall, and was originally scheduled to open this year in April. That opening was held off due to restrictions in place as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Most vendors deal in cash only. There are two ATMs on site to withdraw money and hand sanitizing stations are available for after handling cash.
“We ask everyone – visitors, our vendors and staff – to please be patient, respectful and kind as we all adjust to moving about in a new world,” said the post on Facebook.
