Vendor FAQ

What’s it all about? A limited run of CT’s best growers and producers, some friendly locals, family activities, and some solid music on a grassy field on our beautiful, historic Main Street.

Why only 8 events? Limiting and highly curating our market with just 8 events will give us the control to make sure we can create an event really worth attending for both customers and vendors.

Will the market grow next year? You bet- we’ll extend the season and expand the footprint to include a a select few more vendors. However, our goal is to cultivate a high quality experience for everyone so we’ll never be the biggest market around, that’s not our goal, but we will strive to be the highest quality and to create a fun place where our community can connect around local food.

How many vendors will be there? Our goal is to curate a selection of top notch vendors each week. We will ask each vendor to submit a plan to make sure there are no duplicates and will look keep consistency with our vendors each week while rotating through a few guest spots.

In total, we'll host up to 20 vendors at each market.

How will it be promoted? If there’s one thing about Ridgefielders, it's that they show up! Events in Ridgefield are very well attended and we expect the same for the Markets. The Pumpkin Patch, which is in the same location, has over 5000 people in attendance every year. While we don’t know exactly how many people will show up, we will be promoting it heavily in town via press, social media, partnerships and signage.

What is the site like? We will be at the Jesse Lee Commons which has visibility to high volumes of both foot and street trac right on our very walkable Main Street. It’s a lovely, shady, grassy spot with ample parking nearby- some booths will back up to the parking lot. No booth will be more than 60 feet away from a vehicle loading/ unloading location. There are bathrooms accessible in the church for patrons and vendors.

What do I need to do to participate? This is a producer only market- you must grow or make your own goods from scratch.  If you are a producer, you can fill out our application on line. You also must agree to all of the guidelines, terms and conditions of participation including all state, local and national laws, and Dept of Health and FDA guidelines.

How will vendors be selected? We have so many amazing vendors and just a few spots so curating the market won't be easy. We want to balance the offerings and create a high quality experience. Our board will make selections based on on criteria such as, but not limited to:  

  • How many markets you can attend

  • Types of products offered

  • Potential farm visit

  • Trial of goods

  • Farmers Market presence

  • Other vendor goods 

  • Ability to meet CT grown criteria

What will it cost?  We are happy to offer a percentage of sales structure to our food vendors in our first year if you win, we all win. 

  • Growers and producers will pay 5% of gross weekly sales with a max of $60

  • Artisan/ Guest booths Limit 2 weeks: $30 per week

What other fees are there? The Ridgefield Board of Health will require an application fee of $50 depending on your business.  You will be solely responsible for obtaining all relevant licenses and permits at your own cost. There are no application or market fees.

Wait, I have more questions, who should I contact?

Leah Schmiedel:  Vendor Relationships:  LEAHQH@gmail.com

Corrin Arasa corrinarasa at mac.com