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 (this excludes invite-only vendors).

—-

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.

‍ ‍Downtown Business
‍ ‍Preference will be given to businesses located within the Downtown Guelph boundary; however, all applicants must offer products that are well-suited to a Christmas market environment and meet the overall standards for quality, uniqueness, and retail appeal. Accepted Downtown Guelph businesses receive a 50% on the vendor fee.

—-

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 5th 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 visits from the Grinch 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

THE HUTS

Outdoor vendors are allocated a hut.  The huts are purpose built and measure 7’ wide by 8’ long. Each hut will have a string of lights already provided (see pic).  There are 30+ outdoor huts in total, located in and around Carden Street. You will receive a site map and your exact location in November.

The huts are accessed via a lockable back door.  The front opening can also be locked from the inside. 

There is some overhead storage inside the hut although a stepladder (provided by the vendor) would be required to access it.

HYDRO ACCESS & REQUIREMENTS
Each hut has one electrical outlet and one light.  There is an extra charge should you require additional hydro.

Heating devices are currently being reviewed by the DGBA.  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.

—-

SECURITY AND EVENT SUPPORT (OUTDOOR MARKET)
Professional security staff are onsite overnight from December 4th to 14th.  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

Taking place in the European-inspired Old Quebec Street Shoppes, the indoor marketplace will provide tables for up to 30 vendors. 

CHALET AND TABLE RENTAL
Vendors have a choice of either a chalet (see picture - table with table topper) or a table.  They are the same price and are available on a first come first served basis (i.e. based on when the vendor application was submitted).

Tables and chalets are 72” by 30”.  String lights, two chairs and one full red skirt will be provided.

Hydro is available to all vendors at the indoor marketplace.

The chalets are purpose built (garland not included).

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.