PAYMENT SCHEDULE
Payments by invited vendors must be included on the application form to secure their spot, credit card only. The form must be submitted by Friday April 18th.

REFUNDS
In the event of cancellation, 50% of the fee will be refunded before Friday May 30th.  No refunds will be issued after this date.

THE SELECTION PROCESS
The Christmas Marketplace is a juried show.  Please be aware that applications from vendors will only be considered if they are accompanied by a detailed description and photographs of the items that are intended to be sold.

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA
The retail quality, uniqueness and mix of products on offer at The Christmas Marketplace plays an important role in the overall appeal of the event.  The following criteria will be considered: 

   Handmade
Products that are handmade by the vendor are given priority over those that are manufactured or made abroad. 

   Retail Mix
We are looking for a wide range of product types. 

   Quality
Products must be finished to a high standard. 

   Price Range
We are looking for a range of variously priced products so that customers with all budgets can satisfy their Christmas needs.

EXPECTATIONS OF VENDORS
Cooperation from all vendors is required to achieve an optimal overall appearance and atmosphere.  Every vendor is responsible for designing their own hut/table in an attractive manner.  Vendors are encouraged to add their personal touch to best reflect their merchandise. 

All shelving, additional lighting, and anything else to best display merchandise is the responsibility of the vendor.  No shelving, temporary structures or display stands are permitted outside the footprint of the hut/table.   

All vendors are expected to display a sign bearing their business name.  No advertising banners are permitted. 

PROGRAMMING
There will be an exciting programming schedule to enhance the appeal of The Christmas Marketplace.   

The Guelph Santa Claus Parade and Santa Run take place on Saturday December 6th and attracts thousands of people to the Downtown core.  Guelph Storm games take place on Fridays and Sundays, also attracting thousands into the core. 

Additional programming such as a fire circus, visits from Santa and various live musical performances will take place both indoors and outdoors throughout both weekends. 

EVENT MANAGEMENT SUPPORT
Our event management team will oversee the planning, delivery, management, and marketing of this signature event.  Vendors will receive marketing assets and the team are here to provide guidance by email before the event, and in-person during the event.

MARKETING AND PUBLICITY
Spirit of the Season is committed to extensively advertise, publicize, and promote the event to ensure high attendance.  Local media and news outlets will be made aware of the event through press releases.

 Vendor listings and information will be included in social media campaigns and vendors are encouraged to share campaign posts on their own platforms using the hashtag #spiritoftheseason and tagging @downtownguelph.

THE OUTDOOR MARKETPLACE

HYDRO ACCESS & REQUIREMENTS
Each hut has one electrical outlet and one light.  There is an extra charge should you require additional hydro (hook up to a generator provided by the DGBA).

No external generators allowed. No power bars. No heating devices are allowed in the huts.  Naked flames, candles etc. are not permitted as part of your display. NO EXCEPTIONS.

THE WEATHER
The outdoor marketplace takes place outside, rain, snow or shine. Rain, high winds, and periods of extreme cold are all possible during the exhibition. The organizer is not responsible for your display area or any damage caused by weather. Participation is at your own risk and you must sign a waiver on the morning of the event in order to participate.  

SECURITY AND EVENT SUPPORT (OUTDOOR MARKET)
Professional security staff are onsite overnight on December 5th and 6th and again overnight on December 12th and 13th.  The organizers are not responsible for items left overnight in huts and these are left at the owner’s risk.  The Event Team will be present and able to assist during setup, takedown, and operating hours.

THE INDOOR MARKETPLACE

SECURITY AND EVENT SUPPORT (INDOOR MARKET)

Professional security staff are onsite during Market operating hours.  The organizers are not responsible for items left overnight and these are left at the owner’s risk.  The Event Team will be present and able to assist during setup, takedown, and operating hours.

QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions regarding the event, please do not hesitate to contact Sam and Alex at market@downtownguelph.com.  We look forward to receiving your application!

Sam Jewell, Event Manager, Downtown Guelph Business Association
Alex Turgeon, Special Projects, Downtown Guelph Business Association