GENERAL INFORMATION:
Wristbands: Two free admissions per vendor space. Wristbands will be given at vendor check-in.
Arrival: No earlier than 8 AM.
Check-in: Check in at the main entrance near the ticket booth.
Access to Vending/Exhibiting Area: Park anywhere and pay all fees. You will only be allowed to walk up to the vending area. Cars will not be allowed in the gated area of festival.
Parking: TBD
Booth Assignment: Booths will be assigned specific location day of the festival. If you would like to be next to someone, describe request in the comments section of the application.
Need to Bring: A 10’x10′ canopy/cover is highly recommended in the elements locations (10×10 is the biggest allowed due to fire code). We also suggest banners, flyers, brochures, etc. Signage is not provided.
Times for Vending/Exhibting: The festival officially opens at 1PM, but people start to arrive around 12 PM. You may set your booth is set up in the morning, then you are free to attend the Rally at the Capitol Steps or leave and return as you see fit.
FYI: The parade steps in front of Cooley Law Stadium on E. Michigan Ave. at 12 PM and the Rally at the Capitol steps starts immediately after the parade ends
Tear-Down: You may stay and exhibit/vend until the end of the festival @ 10PM or until 6PM.
Electricity: You must bring your own extension cord. We recommend a 50′ cord to make sure you can access the electricity (110v).
Swag: You’ll get more foot traffic if you pass out goodies (e.g. water, doggie treats, candy, reusable bags, buttons, pencils, etc.). Also, if you plan to have something interactive for folks to do while they talk to you, that will keep them at your table longer. WATER MUST BE AQUAFINA BRAND DUE TO THE AGREEMENT THE STADIUM HAS WITH PEPSI.
Vendors
Our festival attendees enjoy perusing the vendor booths, collecting promotional items and Pride swag, learning about your group and its purpose, and becoming a member of your organization.
Why Be An Exhibitor/Vendor?
Vendors receive an excellent return on their investment at the Michigan Pride Festival. Vendors and exhibitors at Michigan Pride have the opportunity to directly interact with thousands of LGBTQ people and their allies. Vendors of all varieties — for-profit businesses and non-profit causes, political candidates and artists, retailers and game operators – will discover a captive audience interested in their products and message. Market studies show that LGBTQ people make up a very brand-loyal and -conscious market more prone to support businesses and organizations that show their support for the LGBTQ community.
Past vendors and exhibitors include:
- Artists and art organizations.
- Souvenir and merchandise retailers.
- Games, attractions, and novelty booths.
- LGBTQ-friendly businesses seeking to recruit new employees and customers.
- Political candidates interested in meeting with constituents.
- HIV and other health testing.
- Social and sports organizations seeking new members.
- Educational and political organizations distributing information.
- Food vendors.
Important Event Information and Dates
Food vendors must provide all food and heating equipment, but will be given electrical and water access. All food carts will be subject to inspection by the local health department the day prior to the event, and must provide permit for approval.
Fill out the application below, then use the drop down beneath that to complete payment.