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How to Join the Market

Application Links

  • Vendors - The application is closed. To join the waitlist, click here.
  • Entertainment - Click here - Applications were due by May 15 to be included in July/August/September booking process. Anything received will be considered for October 2023 and beyond.
  • Special Activations - Click here to find out more.

We accept applications from:

  • Downtown Business Improvement Area Members (BIA) - A business within the pre-defined Downtown SLO Business Improvement Area boundaries.
  • BBQs - Operates an open flame as part of their vendor booth.
  • Certified Farmers - Grows what they sell and holds a certified producer certificate.
  • Entertainment - Performs a free family-friendly act for 2.5 hours
  • Food Artisans - Sells items meant for take-away consumption and makes them by hand. Items must be pre-packed and sold to take home. Vendors using co-packers are considered retailers and do not qualify for this category.
  • Information/Commercial Leads - Generates leads/distributes information about their business but does not sell anything.
  • Makers & Artisans - Sells items not meant for consumption and crafts them by hand. Item materials must be sufficiently modified from their original state to qualify. Vendors using co-packers are considered retailers and do not qualify for this category.
  • Non-Profits - A 501 c3 or 501c6 with valid EIN
  • Novelty Services - Provides a service or activity with a set price (ex: face painting)
  • Political Organizations - Has an FPPC or FEC Number or the purpose of the vendor's organization is politically aligned.
  • Prepared Food (Restaurants or Pop-Ups) - Prepares food or drink at the market for immediate consumption. Vendors who operate an open flame are considered BBQ Vendors and do not qualify for this category. Vendors who operate a food cart or truck are not eligible to apply to use their truck/cart at this time but can apply and operate from a booth.
  • Retailers - Has a physical storefront (branded with their name) offering resale and has regularly operated public hours (ex. M-F 9 to 5)
  • School Clubs, Organizations, and Classes - Are formally recognized and affiliated with the school.

*Vendors from San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara County are eligible to apply.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Applying does not guarantee approval.
  • Applying does not guarantee that all your products will be approved to sell.
  • Applying does not guarantee the dates you select are available.
  • Applications that do not have the required photos or documentation will not be reviewed, and the application fee will be forfeited. 
  • Eligible Downtown BIA members receive priority consideration when applying. 
  • You do not need to have a storefront or be located in San Luis Obispo to apply.
  • Local businesses are prioritized during application reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions (Including rates, permit requirements, date requirements and more)

Application Links

  • Vendors - The application is closed. To join the waitlist, click here.
  • Entertainment - Click here - Applications were due by May 15 to be included in July/August/September booking process. Anything received will be considered for October 2023 and beyond.
  • Special Activations - Click here to find out more.

Questions? Contact us.