Email In 2020, shopping at a farmers’ market in the Boston area came with an abundance of COVID-19 rules and regulations. Cash was discouraged, masks were necessary, and strict social distancing measures were in place. What a difference a year makes. As Massachusetts continues to reopen, many of the COVID-19 restrictions have disappeared from local markets, instead replaced by reminders to stay home if you feel sick and to try your best to keep a distance from other shoppers. Some places — including Brookline Farmers’ Market and Union Square Farmers’ Market — are still requiring that all shoppers, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask. But most have dramatically relaxed their rules for outdoor shopping, instructing visitors to do what feels most comfortable. (Be sure to check with each market for individual regulations, as well as whether they accept SNAP, WIC, and senior vouchers.)