Southwest Florida Regional Hamfest
Tailgate Application

Tailgater Hours

  • Friday Jan 10th, 2025:
    Set up 8 AM
    Gates open at 11 AM
  • Saturday Jan 11th, 2025:
    Set up 6 AM
    Gates open at 8 AM
  • No vendor take downs before 3 PM on Saturday

Tailgate Exhibitor Prices

$10.00 per Double Parking Space
$7.00 per person Admission ticket.

Every tailgate vendor & guest must purchase an admission ticket.

Terms and Conditions

By submitting this application you agree to the terms of the event:

Spaces will be assigned at the time your registration and full payment is received. We allocate spaces on a first-come, first-served basis. We take space reservations in the order we receive them.

If you want a space next to a buddy, please make your reservations together and note that these are together. If you have a request for a specific area, let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. We group spaces with canopies together.

The purchase of a space does not include admission to the event. You must also purchase a ticket to SWFL Hamfest to be permitted access. Purchase tickets online or at the door. Tables, chairs, and canopies are NOT supplied for outdoor vendors.

A Food Truck vendor may be on site for lunch during the SWFL Hamfest.

We will resell spaces not claimed by opening time and you will forfeit your rental payment. If you are going to arrive late you must include that information in your reservation to avoid losing your space.

Set up will begin at 8:00 AM on Friday and 6:00 AM on Saturday. There will be no admission to the facility before these times. All Vendors will be issued distinctive wristbands at check-in and must wear these for access before opening.

Security personnel will be in the area, but FMARC is not responsible for the security of exhibitor's property. Tailgaters are expected to secure your property or return Saturday at 6 AM to set up.

Vendors are responsible in fulfilling any sales tax obligations.

Open flames, portable propane tanks, cooking grills, stoves, fueled generators and other potential hazards are not permitted. Loud music or announcements are not allowed.

The individuals or organization agrees to observe all regulations of Florida SouthWestern State College.

Vendor agrees to exercise the utmost care in the use of the college facilities and to reimburse the college for any damages to the college's facilities or premises arising out of such use. Vendor agrees not to take down before 3 PM on Sunday.

TIPS FOR SELLERS:

  • Weather is unpredictable.
  • Using a canopy offers shade with buyers staying longer.
  • Manage your display. Using a table cloth helps to display your items.
  • Make sure you have a large visible sign that explains the item you are selling with clear pricing.
  • Arrange your merchandise in a way that will capture your customers' attention and encourage browsing.
  • Clean your items using a soft cloth with Armor All for a nice polish.
  • Engage your customers with a smile.
  • Remember there are many vendors, so stand out in the crowd by knowing your products well and talking to customers about each product's features and benefits.
  • Be courteous to your follow vendors.
  • Price reasonably. Hamfest markets are known for bargains, however make sure you are not underpricing your items. Also, always offer special discounts such as a two-for-one deal, and don't forget to have enough cash on hand since the majority of customers at HamFest Markets do not pay with credit cards. Expect the buyer to negotiate on prices, too.