Village Market Vendor FAQs

When and where is the 2026 Village Market held?

The 2026 Village Market takes place on Mill Street and in Mill Street Park in Ben Lomond.

The market is held on the first Saturday of the month (June through October) from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm: June 6, July 4, August 1, September 5, and October 3.

How do I apply to become a vendor?

To apply:

  1. Gather the documents you need (see document checklists below).
  2. Complete the 2026 Vendor Application by April 30. (Sooner is better!)
  3. Wait to hear from us within 1–4 weeks. 
  4. If you’re accepted, verify your California seller’s status by submitting Form CDTFA-410-D.
  5. Pay the booth fee to the Ben Lomond Village Alliance. The fee is $35 for every market you are approved for and participating in.
Do I need to bring everything for my booth setup?

Yes! You are required to bring everything you need for your booth setup. The Village Market only provides the space for your booth.

What should I bring for my booth setup?

Here are the guidelines:

  • Vendors are required to bring everything needed for their booth setup.
  • Vendors will be given a 10′ x 10′ space.
  • A 10′ x 10′ canopy tent is preferred. A table with an umbrella is also allowed.
  • Food vendors are required to have screened-in tents.
  • If you need to use power from the park, please bring ample extension cords.
  • Bring trash and recycling bins for your booth.
If I want to participate, do I have to commit to every date?

No. When submitting your application, please note which dates you want to be considered for. This can range from one market to all five!

What is the booth fee?

The booth fee is $35 per market date, payable to the Ben Lomond Village Alliance upon acceptance.

How long does the application review process take?

Vendors can expect to hear back within 1 to 4 weeks after submitting a complete application.

Are farmers required to provide specific documentation?

Yes. Farmers and agricultural vendors must provide:

  • Current California Producer’s Certificate (CPC)
  • Additional documentation if applicable, such as:
    • State Organic Registration
    • Third-party organic certification (CCOF, QAI, MOCA, etc.)
    • Health Department permit for processed/value-added foods
    • Bonded Type 2 License (for wine sales)
    • Apiary License (for beekeepers)
Do you accept massage or wellness vendors?

Yes! Massage providers must submit evidence of professional massage training.

Please note: chiropractic or medically related services are not permitted. 

Can I apply if my food business is not fully operational yet?

No. Food-related businesses must be fully operational and properly registered at the time of application.

What if I currently sell at markets outside Santa Cruz County?

You may submit your current county health permit during the application process. However, if accepted, you must obtain the appropriate Santa Cruz County Health Permit before participating.

Who is eligible to be a vendor?

All vendors must be approved by market management. Reselling items you did not personally make or produce is typically not allowed unless explicitly permitted by the market.

What are the product quality and labeling requirements?

All products must be fresh and high quality. Pricing must be clearly displayed, and any required health, ingredient, or product information must be properly labeled in accordance with regulations.

What permits or licenses do I need?

Vendors are responsible for obtaining and maintaining all required permits and licenses for their products. This may include health permits for prepared food, organic certification, or other applicable documentation. 

What are the setup and breakdown expectations?

Vendors must arrive and set up during designated times and be fully ready to sell when the market opens. Tents, tables, and displays must be securely anchored. At the end of the market, your booth space must be completely cleaned. Please bring a broom and dustpan to tidy your area before departure.

How should pricing and transactions be handled?

Prices must be clearly displayed. Scales may be tested for accuracy. Vendors are encouraged to accept multiple forms of payment, including cash, credit cards, and digital payment apps. Please note that the market does not currently accept EBT/SNAP.

What is expected regarding booth conduct?

Vendors must maintain a professional, courteous, and respectful demeanor toward customers, fellow vendors, and market staff. Loud, disruptive, or inappropriate behavior is not permitted.

Can I offer product samples?

Yes, but vendors must follow all local health regulations. This includes proper food handling procedures, use of gloves or serving utensils, and adherence to all applicable safety standards.

Is electricity available?

Power is available from the Ben Lomond County Park. Vendors are responsible for extension cords.

What happens in bad weather?

The market operates rain or shine. If you are unable to attend for any reason, please notify the market manager as far in advance as possible.

Who is responsible for waste and recycling?

Vendors are responsible for keeping their booth area clean and must take all trash and leftover products with them. Waste and recycling bins provided at the market are for customer use only.

Are there restrooms available?

Yes, limited restrooms are available at the Ben Lomond County Park for visitors.

Still have questions? 

We’d love to help. Email us at VillageMarket@BenLomondVillage.org.