Food Vendors 2026
Food Philosophy
“The two things you can’t fake are good food and good music.” – Etta James
We value food that is good for our bodies, our community and our environment. Our goal is to work with partners and vendors who share our values and our commitment to support local, ethical and sustainable products. We encourage applications from vendors who offer a variety of healthy, nutritious food choices that are affordable and that respect dietary restrictions.
Each year the Vancouver Folk Music Festival draws more than 20,000 people over 3 days. Our Food Vendor area is a busy and bustling space, providing vendors an excellent opportunity to increase their exposure while having some Festival fun.
Pete’s Eats – Hours of Operation
Friday, July 17: 2:00pm to 10:00pm
Saturday, July 18: 9:00am to 10:00pm
Sunday, July 19: 9:00am to 10:00pm
Application Process
APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 6th, 2025.
How Food Vendors are Selected
After we receive your application, we first confirm that it is complete. Applications with missing information will not be considered.
Next, we review publicly available online sources to confirm that your mobile vending unit and commissary kitchen are in compliance with BC’s Food Premises Regulation.
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee. We look for well-organized vendors offering high-quality menus, and consider factors such as the type of food you serve, affordability, use of local or ethically sourced ingredients, availability of nutritious options, experience in high-volume settings, and previous participation in Folk Festivals. As the Vancouver Folk Music Festival is a high-traffic event, prior food service experience is important. We aim to maintain a balance of new and returning vendors. For returning vendors, feedback from the public and festival volunteers is also considered. Please note that past participation does not guarantee placement.
Food vendor selection is a juried and competitive process. Please read the application carefully, as we are unable to make exceptions to the stated requirements or fee structure. Applications that do not meet these conditions will not be considered.
If your application is accepted for the 2026 Vancouver Folk Music Festival, you will be notified by email on or before March 6th, 2026. A deposit is not required at the time of application.
Food Vendor Fees
The food vendor structure has changed this year; please review the following information:
Vendor Flat Fee $1,680- includes 10ft x 25ft site space – no additional commission on sales will be charged. Daily revenues must be provided for data and reporting purposes. Larger units are subject to additional fees.
Power- Charges will be based on the required amount of power needed. *No gas/propane generators are allowed in the park.
Reefer– Shared reefer space is available for $300 (4 ft wide x 2 ft deep x 6 ft high). Vendors are required to provide their own shelf or dunnage rack.
Sink- If applicable, a 2-compartment sink is available for $300 and will be set up beside your location.
Ice– Available for purchase for $20/bag for 26.4lbs. Pre-ordering required. Ice storage is available for $150.
Eco-Deposit– A refundable $200 deposit is required. This is to ensure compliance with BC and VFMF environmental sustainability policies. Further details are included in the Letter of Agreement.
Questions can be emailed to our Food & Beverage Manager at fbmanager@thefestival.bc.ca.