DES MOINES, Iowa - Metro area farmer's markets are starting to open up after COVID-19 shutdowns.
Both Governor Kim Reynolds and the city of Des Moines lifted bans on large gatherings earlier this month.
Two farmers' markets in Ankeny and West Des Moines plan to open up for in-person shopping next week.
The Valley Junction Farmers MINI Market will have it's opening day on Thursday, July 9, from 4-8 p.m. Organizers say it'll feel more like the grocery store and less like a party, with a reduced number of vendors focused on food and farm products only.
The Uptown Ankeny Farmer's Market is scheduled to open Saturday, July 11th from 9am-Noon. It'll also have a smaller number of vendors in distanced booths selling mostly fresh produce and packaged goods.
Neither market will have live music or children's activities.
The Downtown Des Moines Farmers' Market is still operating online and has not yet announced a date for in-person shopping.