Sunday, October 4: Blessing of the Animals | We buy their kibble, scoop and clean when nature calls, and sit on that one tiny corner of the couch when they’re sprawled out on the rest of it, fast asleep. All that work, and what do we get in return? Little else but endless expressions of Unconditional Love. “Our pets have been such a source of comfort during these difficult times, and we want to bless them!” said Rev. Christine Lee, of St. Peter’s Chelsea, in advance of this pandemic-era, rain-or-shine version of their popular Blessing of the Animals event. This year’s perks include the chance to take a photo with a cardboard cutout of Saint Francis (who is said to have preached to animals). Sun, Oct. 4, 12-1pm in the courtyard of St. Peter’s Chelsea (320 W. 20th St. btw. 8th & 9th Aves.). Click here to visit the St. Peter’s Chelsea website.

Down to Earth Farmers Market: Saturdays in Chelsea | Down to Earth Farmers Market has a presence in Chelsea, Saturdays, 9am-3pm, through December 19, along the sidewalk on the North side of W. 23rd St., east of Ninth Ave. The Market has altered its shopping guidelines, in accordance with COVID-19 precautions. Click here to read the guidelines, and arrive prepared to browse while maintaining social distance. To visit the website page specific to their Chelsea Market, click here. Go to the Manager’s Tent to use your SNAP EBT card and get tokens to spend with our vendors. Health Bucks available. FMNP WIC/Seniors checks can be used at the farm stands through November. Note: Food scrap recycling collection is on pause. Please do not bring items for composting to the farmers market.

–Compiled by Scott Stiffler

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