Your casual guide to becoming part of the magic!

Hey there, future vendor! 👋
We’re so glad you’re here. Our events just wouldn’t be the same without creative, hardworking folks like you. If you’ve been wondering how to get involved with Visit Gloucester’s special events like the Daffodil Festival, Food Truck Frenzy, or upcoming Homestead Market, you’re in the right place. Let’s walk through everything you need to know—step by step, no stress.

The Daffodil Festival brings in approximately 25,000 attendees. Photo of busy Main Street lined with vendors.

1. Where Do I Even Start?

All event opportunities are posted right on our Visit Gloucester Facebook page.
Each event has its own application process—yep, that means no one’s automatically approved for every event. Why? Because each one has a different theme, and we curate our vendors to match the vibe. So, if you’re interested in more than one event, be sure to apply to each one individually!

2. When Should I Apply?

4 Grandpups Homemade Treat Co. knows that dogs can be customers too!

As early as possible!
We typically open applications 3–6 months ahead of an event. If you wait until you see all the hype online, you’re probably too late—we’re already knee-deep in layouts, schedules, and promo. Don’t miss your chance—keep an eye on our posts and get in early!

3. What’s the Application Like?

Easy peasy. All vendor sign-ups go through our official portal:
👉 www.gloucesterva.gov/civicrec
Look for the Tourism Events tab—that’s where you’ll find all open opportunities.

A few pro tips:

Watch out for scams (they’re everywhere!). Only message our official Visit Gloucester Facebook or Instagram page with questions. When in doubt, send an ‘old-fashioned’ email or call our office!
We only accept payments through our Civic Rec portal or in person at our office. If someone is asking for money via DMs, it’s not us.
Yes, there is a vendor fee, but it varies by event. If you’re not selected or have a medical reason (with documentation), you’ll get a refund. No-shows don’t get refunds.

4. How Do I Get Picked?

Let’s be honest: not every vendor gets selected. But there’s plenty you can do to boost your chances.

Be authentic and creative. Gloucester is all about real, unique, and handmade.
Follow instructions. We often ask for product photos. If we can’t see what you sell, we may overlook your application.
Stand out. We love vendors that pour heart and soul into their products.
Highlight the theme. Each event has a clear theme (daffodils, nautical, fall, etc.). Vendors that have products aligning with the theme are almost a shoo-in!

Hot Ticket Items:

Woodworking • Original Art • Stained and Blown Glass • Baked Goods • Pottery

& Local Flair (if it says Gloucester on it, it’s probably going to be on our own personal shopping list!)

Over-Represented Categories:
(Still awesome, but we limit to avoid duplicates)

3D/Laser Crafts • Crochet • Soaps • Jewelry • Candles • Wreaths

If you’re in these categories, make sure your photos are great, your setup is professional, and you apply early. We prioritize local makers too!

5. What’s Included in My Vendor Fee?

Every vendor space is a 10x10 ft booth. That includes your full setup, inventory, and anything you bring with you.

What we don’t provide:

Tents, tables, chairs (those are all on you!)
Power or water (most locations can’t offer it)

What we do provide:

Promo! We highlight every vendor on our social channels so the community knows you're coming.
Marketing muscle—we work hard to bring the crowds. We advertise through paid ads on Facebook, radio, physical signage, magazines, newspapers, and more. Our events are part of #VirginiaisforLovers and has been recognized as “best of” by Virginia Living and Coastal Virginia Magazine.

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6. What Happens on Event Day?

Here’s the play-by-play:

You’ll get a map and load-in time about two weeks in advance.
On arrival, you’ll pull your vehicle right up to your booth, unload fast, then go park.
After that, feel free to take your time setting up your space. *Remember, curb appeal*
At closing, cars can’t return to the event space until we give the all-clear for safety reasons. Lots of foot traffic = cautious timing!
If you need anything during the event, find the Visit Gloucester booth. We are the hub for first-aid, lost items (including children! hey, it happens!), and any questions during the day.

7. How Do I Make the Most of the Day?

Mom’s Daffodils has the perfect set up for the Daffodil Festival.

Ever Green Family Farm provides excellent customer service to visitors taste testing their product.

You’re already awesome, but here are a few bonus tips to help your booth shine:

Be positive! A smile goes a long way.
Prepare for weather—secure your displays from wind and keep your tent sturdy.
Don’t solicit outside of your booth space. A friendly ‘hello’ is more than enough to draw someone in to browse.
Use free marketing!
-Share our social posts
-Invite your friends to the event page
-Post behind-the-scenes peeks of you creating or prepping your goods—audiences love that!
- Tag us! We’ll repost your content to help spread the word.
Don’t stress. Set-up can be hectic—bring water, take a deep breath, and remember you’re here to connect, create a great experience, and honestly- make that moola $$.

8. Not Sure If You’re the Right Fit? Here’s a Breakdown:

Service Providers
(think insurance, pest control, resorts, etc.)
These events are usually geared toward products, not lead generation. If you’re interested in visibility, consider reaching out about sponsorships instead!
Retail
(Boutiques, handmade goods, specialty items)
Yes, yes, and yes. These are great fits for our markets and festivals.
Home-Based Makers
(Think engraving, baked goods, plant propagation, crafts, produce)
We love you! Whether or not you have a storefront, you belong at our events. It’s a great place to get extra exposure without having a permanent sign on Highway 17.
Food Vendors
You’re essential. 🍔🌮🍩
Sometimes we open general applications; other times, we invite food vendors directly to avoid overlap. Health Department rules always apply—be ready!
Entertainment & Attractions
Got talent or a fun feature to bring to the event? We’re always looking to add unique experiences for attendees—think musicians, face painters, caricature sketchers, magicians, petting zoos, inflatables, and more! These are handled on a case by case basis, so if you’re interested, please contact our office directly to discuss options and availability. We’d love to hear from you!