RiverArtsFest 2025 - Food Vendor Application

RiverArtsFest, now in its 19th year, is an urban street festival held in downtown Memphis on the banks of the Mississippi River. The festival presents fine art, music, and food for the Mid-South public's entertainment, education, and enjoyment. It is the longest running fine arts festival in the region and attracts patrons from Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Mississippi. RiverArtsFest is ranked #19 in Sunshine Artist magazine's "200 Best for 2024."

Food vendors are invited to apply for booth space at RiverArtsFest 2025, taking place October 17-19, 2025. Load-in begins Friday, October 17 at 10 AM, with festival hours Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Load-out is Sunday, October 19 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Vendors must remain open during all festival hours and be present for the entire event. Space options are 10'x10' for $500 or 10'x20' for $950. Once accepted, vendors must pay a deposit ($250 for 10'x10' or $475 for 10'x20') and the balance due by September 15, 2025. A cancellation deadline of September 1, 2025 applies for refunds.

Vendors are selected based on food quality, variety, and past involvement with the festival. Digital images of food vendor setup, electrical plug, and proposed menu are required (1920 x 1920 pixel format). All vendors must obtain a Health Permit and Special Event Permit from Memphis/Shelby County Health Department and any other necessary business licenses. Vendors are responsible for all local, state, and federal taxes. A menu with prices must be conspicuously displayed. Water and electricity are provided. No alcoholic beverages may be sold or consumed during working hours, and no smoking is allowed in concession units. Vendors must remove all rubbish, trash, and grease from the festival grounds. For questions, contact Denny McGivern at [email protected].