Be a Food Vendor at Festivals and Fairs

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Be a Food Vendor at Festivals and Fairs	March 2019
	Fairs and Festivals Staff

Photo Courtsey: sl wong at Pexels

If you dream of selling cotton candy or your own special recipes at festivals and fairs, you’ll need to know a few requirements before you go out and start your own food trailer.

Permits

First and foremost, you need to figure out what permits your county and city require. Permits will vary depending on where you are selling. Typically you will need to obtain vendor’s license and food handlers permits. If you are planning to attend a specific event, the coordinator can direct you on what permits you’ll require. If you plan on traveling with your food truck or stand, you will need to obtain a license with your local health department. Also keep in mind that you will need a vendor’s permit for each location you service. Requirements may also vary from state to state.

Insurance

The next important step is to obtain insurance. Again, requirements will vary based on your location. You will need to obtain a specific food vendor’s insurance policy. You may also be able to obtain an umbrella coverage if you plan on going to various events. If you only plan on one event, you can obtain temporary coverage for that event.

Vendor Applications

Every festival or fair that you plan to sell at will have vendor applications and requirements. Be certain that you are planning well in advance. This is particularly true for very large fairs, like state fairs. There may be deadlines several weeks prior to the actual event that you will need to send in your application by. They will also want to verify that you have the necessary permits as well.

Your Vehicle

Now you can start planning the fun stuff. An actual food truck makes it fun and easy to transport from one location to another. However, if you need a more economical option and you already have a vehicle that can tow, a food trailer may be a better suit for you. Each type of vehicle has their own benefits, so you will need to make a decision based on your needs and your long term goals.

Within your vehicle, you will need to have the correct equipment as well. You can purchase fully outfitted trucks and trailers for food vendors that include all of the coolers and cooking appliances. It will be vital that you have sufficient food storage so you won’t run out of ingredients in the middle of the day. You will also need to ensure your equipments meets the sanitation regulations set forth by your state health department.

Your Menu

Finally, the really fun part. What are you going to cook? Consider the event that you will be attending and who your audience is. Consumer research will go a long way in ensuring that your food items will be popular at the events you attend. Try to avoid foods that are hard to eat while walking and shopping. You want to have good food, but you also want convenience, particular in a fair or festival setting. If you have any doubt on the portability of your food, you might consider going the extra mile and provide some seating options as well, such as picnic tables near your food stand.

Comments

I have a funnel cake trailer, we do some fair an festival, but we would like to have more fair and festival. if you guy can help us with that I will appreciate. thank you

By victor postillon on March 27, 2019

have a great bbq food truck want to vend more this year.

By kinard portee on April 4, 2019

I am Starting a mobile bar out of a converted cargo trailer with concession window. I know There

By Amanda on April 6, 2019

We sell hawaiian shaved. In springfield, mo. Would love to do more fairs and festivals

By Donna Ewing on April 14, 2019

We sell Hawaiian shave ice throughout AZ. We have alpacas and mini horses we can bring if allowed.

By Zinncon on April 20, 2019

Good day, I have been a merchandise vendor for 12 years. I now switched over to food/beverages and would love any information on the events with a substantially LARGE amount of attendees.
I used to check the stats of events to see that past history of the amount of people attending to make it make sense but I ran out of resources to search for these events.. I now just put

By DaMel m.Williamson on April 27, 2019

It has been mentioned to us multiple times that we would be an awesome fit for the Franklin, TN. Arts & Craft Fairs. We would love to be considered for some of your Craft Shows. We were having a hard time figuring out how to apply for these events.
You can go to Jesusiskey.org to find out more about us. Thank you for your time!
Shari Kempf

By Jesus is Key LLC on April 28, 2019

I am looking for fairs to purchase a vendor booth.. I have owned Mystics by the Sea for 16 years, located in Milford Ct. I would like to hand out informational brochures on our services.

By Mary Clare on May 22, 2019

We are a food vendor with killer Tj style Tacos. Everything is cooked over our big Mesquite/ Charcoal Santa Maria Grill.

http://www.instagram.com/tacos_el_gringo

By Tacos El Gringo on May 28, 2019

iam an Italian ice vendor in Louisiana. sosoicey.com email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

By So Icey on May 31, 2019

I do bbq hulihuli On Hawaiian style you

By Stewart taufa on June 5, 2019

I own a food trailer and would like all info on any festivals gone on

By Brenda DENBY on June 15, 2019

Hello, We are a coffee trailer that specializes in espresso and regular coffee. Our menu includes Regular coffee, Cold Brew, Iced Coffee and Espresso. Our coffee beans are ground as you order. We have hot chocolate, Home made sweet tea, water and bottle soda. We offer pastries as well.

We try to add in different ideas as time goes on and requests are made.

By William MIller on June 17, 2019

Hello, I was wondering do you offer leads to these events, via email? Like do you send updates of upcoming food vendors needed events?

By Anthony on June 18, 2019

Hello, we have a Fresh Lemonade Stand (fancy pants lemonade). We are looking
For available booths. We have a hot summer coming so please keep us in mind!

By srsanchez22 on June 20, 2019

Hello, I

By Vea Afo on July 5, 2019

We do face painting and airbrush tattoos in Phoenix Arizona from Sept - May. http://www.gigglesfacepainting.com

By Carrie Ann Hebert on July 23, 2019

On-site Crepe Station specializing in Sweet and Savory Crepes for any and all occasions.

By Pal Crepes on August 7, 2019

Hello dear I am interesting getting one of the vendor for coffee.than you for your immediate attention.

By kate soulya on September 19, 2019

Hello. I’m interested in being a vendor at Loganville fest. I would like to market my hot sauce. Thank you

By Carol Brown on October 1, 2019

I am the owner of Ucandocoffee. I sell gourmet and organic per cup and can sell boxes for people would want it. I have Black, latte, mocha caramel, hot chocolate, green and red teas. I make shakes, fraps and either hot or iced coffee. The taste is like no other. I have done many festivals with great success and would like to know requirements in Texas for a 10x10 set up. I’m based in California but travel to different states for festivals and events. I an collaborate with other vendors as well.

Lani Echols, CEO
520 369 7325

By Lani77 on October 9, 2019

Please advise

By I am interested in more information on fairs, craf on October 12, 2019

I am interested in becoming a vendor, I am the owner of Myers Kettle Corn Company in Oklahoma City Ok.
We make fresh, sweet and salty Kettle Corn!~

Brook Myers
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
405.664.64751

By Brook Myers on October 15, 2019

I am I’m interested in being a vendor, I make all kinds crafts,

By DARLENE SOUSA on October 20, 2019

Hi, my name is nikki and I own sweet treats by k&b . I have food truck looking for town festivals fairs etc. I have hot food and desserts and carvinal foods. .. I am willing travel . Thank you!
Nikki ????

By Nikki86 on October 26, 2019

would be interested in festivals that accept reborn dolls. I make reborns and use the best quality materials

By Sharon Clarey on November 4, 2019

Hi, my wife & I want to start a “Funnel Cake Business” The BIG question is can we sell from our Motor Home @ Festivals.? Waiting to hear from the Health Dept, I ask the same question. (pending) Thank You Len & Jean

By LENNY CHRISTENSEN on November 5, 2019

Hello Vendors,
We have a couple of spots open for merchandise, craft and food vendors at our upcoming festival in Ormond Beach, Florida. Our vendor fees are the best…....2 day event….....November 23 & 24th.
Call today for more information, 386-898-3585. or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

By Lauren Dever on November 9, 2019

Hi, my name is Doris , I am a vendor from South Carolina, Doris O.Praise Team LLC,
I make bags, I am interested in the upcoming festival, how do i register?

Thank you and have a great day

Doris M.

By Doris Memejohwo on November 15, 2019

Hi. I am a new at home business looking to sell my vegan baked goodies under the cottage law. I would love any info you can give me reserving a booth. Please get back to me.

By Lisa Garay on November 18, 2019

Hi My name is Wade Sinor w/ Sadie Js Grill in Oklahoma, We have a 30ft Food Trailer that is custom design and setup for large events. We are looking for a event planner that can register us for Events, Fairs and etc.. Contact info. .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) Mobile 405-550-1468 Thanks

By sadiejskettlecorn on November 19, 2019

Hi, My name is LaShaunda and I’m a proud new owner of Betty Jo’s Southern cooking. I’m looking for events that are located within Texas and Louisiana that allow food trailers. I sell both Cajun and Soul Food depending which event takes place. I can be reached at (409)433-8611 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). I’m looking for someone to book me any events during 2020.

By lcolvin1975 on December 1, 2019

Hello my name is pamela davis and i am the owner of cakepops by pamela. I provide aservicee of hand made party treats with emphasis on cakepops and goumet candy apples and flavored candy apples. Would love to be a part of your 2020 festival in durham. Awaiting to hear from you. Thank you.

By Pameladavis on December 17, 2019

Hey I have 2 food trucks with dmv liscence I

By Charlie65 on January 6, 2020

Medgourmet trucks with Virginia liscence interested to sign up for events please call me or email thanks thanks. Charlie 703 909 2745 Email : Mohamed .ben29 @yahoo.com

By Charlie65 on January 6, 2020

I have a hot dog cart that sells, hot dogs, brats and Italian sausage as well as drinks and chips. Would love to be included in events in Watauga and Avery Counties… .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) Ken 828-260-2212

By DirtyDog on January 13, 2020

I sell Usborne Children’s Books & More from newborns up to teenage years. We are an educational book company but also well books with lots of activities too.
I’m looking for indoor events in Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland. Thank you so muc!

By Donna Seccamanie on February 18, 2020

I’m selling sauces. They have multiple uses. From Wings, fry dipping, fish, glaze for smoked or charred meats, salad dressing,.Chicken,
Mac and Cheese, Noodle salads, and so much more

By Dee@CruisersBarandGrillOmaha.com on February 29, 2020

I am a Snow Cone vendor and would like to be considered for the 2020 OFF THE CHARTS MUSIC FESTIVAL in Casselton, ND. I have been vending for about 10 years and use the funds to pay for a yearly mission trip.

By mcgregr@gra.midco.net on May 28, 2020

We are starting the Jerky Shack and looking for a listing of events in the WV area.

By Tammy Clark on August 4, 2020

Hi I have small business to buy food in 20 feet, I

By Youssef bechari on August 19, 2020

I would like to know how to sing up can you tall me how

By mary hart on October 7, 2020

Hello,

I am inquiring about how we can go about being a food vendor for fairs or festivals in our local area of Gulfport and the Biloxi Area of Mississippi? If someone could send me some information in regards to this, I would appreciate it.

Thank you

By Katrina Clark on December 17, 2020

Hello,
I also would like to get more info on how to become a food vendor in festivals or fairs in my area?

Any info is deeply appreciate it.

Kindly,
Laura

By laura on February 13, 2021