Everything You Need to Know About Being a Vendor at a Riddlesbrood Festival!

Each year, we host two major festivals—one in the spring and one in the fall at Historic Smithville in Galloway NJ. Both are high-energy, well-attended, and a total blast. Since we are a theater company by trade, our festivals feature FREE mainstage community theater shows! This brings in huge crowds, including the dedicated friends and family of our cast members. To help our vendors prepare, we sat down with Kate Brubaker, our Vendor Manager for the past five years, to answer your most frequently asked questions.

1. The Essentials: Logistics & Cost
What booth fees or costs should vendors plan for?
As of Spring 2026, the Game Zone is $35 per day. The Main Zone is $150 on Saturday and $100 on Sunday. If you book both days, you take 10% off the total!

What is included for vendors?
Vendors get a 10x10 space in the beautiful Village Green! (615 E Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ 08205) I am always nearby at a dedicated booth if you need support throughout the day.
What should a first-time vendor know before applying?
Our festivals are outdoors, so you must be prepared for the elements—it can be chilly in the fall or quite warm in the spring. You also need to provide your entire setup: tent, tables, and displays. Most importantly, there is no power on-site, so please plan your booth needs accordingly. 
What are the setup and breakdown expectations?
I allow about two hours before the event for setup, and I’m on-site to help guide everyone. For breakdown, we ask that you wait until after the second show ends so we don’t interrupt the performances.

2. The Application Process
How do I apply and how early should I do it?
The first step is to email me. I’ll send you the info package, and if you’re ready to join, I’ll send the application. We recommend applying a few months in advance. We give our returning vendors an early-access week, and then we open it up to the general public. (Info@riddlesbrood.com)
How do you decide which vendors to accept?
It is primarily first-come, first-served. However, we also prioritize variety—we want our vendors to be as unique from each other as possible. We accept everything from crafters to promotional vendors, and even unique animal displays if they fit the show's theme!

3. Strategy: How to Succeed at Riddlesbrood
What kinds of vendors are the best fit?
It depends on the season! For the Spring Festival, fantasy and Renaissance-themed items are a perfect fit. For the Christmas festival, holiday-themed goods do great. Ultimately, if you are a crafter or have something unique and different, you’re going to do well here.
How do the "Zones" work?
We have three zones. If you are in the Game Zone, kid-themed items and lower price points do best. In the Main Zone, guests look for a mix of high-end and mid-range items.
What separates a "good" weekend from a "great" weekend?
Two things: Payment options and price points. You will see a significant boost in sales if you accept credit/digital payments rather than just cash. Also, having items at various price points ensures there is something for everyone.

4. Pro-Tips from the Manager
What are the biggest day-of mistakes to avoid?
Don't be late: If you arrive late, you won't be able to get your car near your setup area. Call, don't email: On the day of the event, I am on the grounds and cannot check email. If you need me, you must call me.
What makes the job easier for everyone?
Bring a rolling cart to move your stock from the parking lot to your space! Also, if you’re staying for both days, you are welcome to leave your tent and setup standing overnight.
How can a vendor best engage with the "vibe"?
We are high-energy! I recommend decorating your booth to match the festival theme or even wearing a costume. Since many attendees are there to see the show, having items that tie into the performance (like A Christmas Carol or our Spring production) really grabs their attention.

Ready to Join the Family?
Riddlesbrood is more than just a market; it’s a community. We’re the only festival where you’re part of a massive theatrical production, and once you’re with us, you’re part of the family.
Interested in joining us? Check out our list of upcoming festivals below and send us an email to get started!