Considered essential businesses, the Chicago City Markets managed by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will open in June and July to increase neighborhood access to fresh and healthy food. DCASE will take necessary precautions to encourage social distancing and to protect customers and vendors. Chicago City Markets will be located in Austin, Bronzeville, Division Street, Englewood, La Follette Park, Printers Row, Pullman, Roseland and West Humboldt Park. At this time, the locations at Daley Plaza and Federal Plaza remain tentative for the 2020 season. For more information, visit chicagocitymarkets.us and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ChicagoCityMarkets.
These city-run markets serve communities with limited access to fresh produce and areas designated low-income, low-access by the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA). All markets accept LINK through a partnership with Link Up Illinois, an Experimental Station program. The Link Match incentive (previously known as double value) gives a matching $1 coupon for each dollar up to $25 spent with a Link card.
As markets reopen, the health and safety of our customers, staff and vendors remains our highest priority. Face coverings are required at all times. Vendor booths will be spaced six feet (about two meters) apart and shoppers must enter and exit at clear access points and maintain appropriate physical distancing in lines and while shopping. Only vendors may handle produce, and they are required to wear gloves. No food may be prepared, sampled or eaten on site.
All shoppers, vendors and staff are also asked to follow all recommendations from the Chicago Department of Public Health — wash their hands or use hand sanitizer frequently, avoid touching their faces with unwashed hands and cover their noses and mouths when sneezing or coughing. Anyone who is feeling unwell should stay home.
Additionally, DCASE is helping to facilitate the reopening of independently run farmers markets citywide. Under the guidance of the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), all markets, whether on private or public property, are required to register and seek approval before opening. Markets must follow social distancing protocols to allow customers to shop for food without extraneous congregating. The City of Chicago may do spot checks of markets to ensure that guidelines are followed. Applications and guidelines are available at chicagocitymarkets.us.
Regrettably, since the City of Chicago has cancelled all permitted special events through Labor Day (September 7), Maxwell Street Market will remain closed through this date.
The Chicago City Markets are produced by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and sponsored in part by Humana.
