Worcester Public Market reopens Thursday: Everything you need to know before going inside – MassLive.com

What lies beyond the pandemic? MassForward is MassLives series examining the journey of Massachusetts businesses through and beyond the coronavirus pandemic.

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For the first time in three months, the Worcester Public Market will open its doors to the public on Thursday.

The market opens at 11 a.m and when patrons arrive, they can expect to see some changes within the market, which celebrated a grand opening at the end of February.

On the night it opened in the Canal District, the food court, the vendor space and Wachusett Brewing Companys bar room were filled to capacity. Smiles filled many of the faces of those inside.

On Thursday, no more than 80 people will be allowed inside the market aligning with state regulations. Masks and social distancing policies will be enforced. The 20,000 square foot space can only allow 40% of its capacity.

It represents only one of the many changes the market has undergone to reopen. If you plan on visiting the Public Market on Thursday or in the future, heres what to expect.

7 New Vendors

The Worcester Public Market closed in the middle of March due to the coronavirus pandemic. Since that time, a host of new vendors have found homes in the market.

Akra - An African fusion takeout and juice bar.

Crate & Howl - A dog supply boutique that features everything pet teepees to bowties.

Georges Middle Eastern Bakery - As the name implies a middle eastern bakery.

Girly Girl Soaps - A shop offering handmade natural soaps without any chemicals.

K Sense Co. - Specializing in custom and handmade gifts that are ethically and locally-sourced.

Northampton Olive Oil - More than olive oils, a shop with BBQ, hot sauce, and more.

Sabrosa Venezuela - A Venezuelan inspired pastry shop.

Hours

The Worcester Public Market is open Thursday, Friday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Saturday the market opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 7 p.m.

Wachusett Brewing Company will open Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Entering/exiting

All three entrances to the Worcester Public Market will be open. Floor managers will have headsets and monitor the number of people inside. If lines form outside vendor spaces, customers much remain 6 feet apart.

Once more than 60 people enter the facility, floor managers will close the entrances to insure the floor never eclipses 80 people. Once capacity dips below 60, entrances will reopen. Customers outside the market must also remain 6 feet apart.

Outdoor seating

Developer of the Worcester Public Market Allen Fletcher estimated there will be about 80 seats outside of the market for patrons to dine at. Party sizes are restricted to no more than six people.

Picnic tables will line Harding Street and may also be available at the plaza by Kelley Square. Regular tables will primarily populate the plaza, though.

Picnic tables are also expected to extend to Green Street once construction is complete.

Ordering food

Patrons wanting to order food at the market will have to go inside to place the order and wait for its completion. Once the order is complete, customers must take it outside.

Retail shopping

The Worcester Public Markets retail vendors will be open. Capacity for the entire facility, though is 80, including both for retail and the food court.

MassForward is MassLive's series examining the journey of Massachusetts' small businesses through and beyond the coronavirus pandemic.

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Worcester Public Market reopens Thursday: Everything you need to know before going inside - MassLive.com