Here are application guidelines but make sure to download the entire vendor guidelines in addition to the application available at the bottom of this page.
Application Process
- All vendors must apply each year.
- All questions on applications must be completed. Festival organizers may request clarification. Failure to provide requested clarification is grounds for rejection.
- Vendors must list on their applications ALL items and services they wish to sell. Items not listed and approved may not be sold and must be removed from the vendor’s booth.Vendors are not granted exclusive rights to sell any particular item. The RFF retains the right to determine which of a vendor’s products are approved for sale.
- Applications must be postmarked by the deadline indicated on the application. Late applications will NOT be considered.
- Failure to meet application and/or contract fee deadlines may result in forfeiture of booth location and/or booth space.
Selection Process
The number of food vendors selected for the 2008 event will be between 30 and 35 vendors. This number is based on how food vendors at the 2007 National Folk Festival in Richmond, Virginia, handled the crowd of 175,000.
1. Food Vendor applications will be considered based upon the following categories:
- Ethnic Foods
- Virginia/Regional Foods
- Snacks/Desserts
- “Fair” Foods
- Other Main Dishes
- Beverages
2. Each application will be given a numeric grade on the following criteria:
- Product Quality
- Product Uniqueness
- Experience serving large crowds
- History with festivals
- Local/Regional Vendor
- Nonprofit Organization
- Overall Presentation
3. Vendors should also include a recent photograph of their set-up and three reference letters from previous events. This letter must state the name of the event and the number of people in attendance, as well as a name and contact number for the event.
4. Applicants will be notified via mail regarding acceptance or rejection.
5.Vendors wishing to be listed in the Festival Program must fulfill all contract responsibilities by applicable deadlines.
6.Complete contracts and required fees must be returned by the indicated deadlines.