FAQs — Market Central

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to the Farmers Market At Ix?

Market Central (which manages the Farmers Market at Ix) uses the Marketspread platform to manage, invoice, and schedule vendors. Vendors need to create a Marketspread profile and then apply to the Farmers Market at Ix. Your profile is viewed by customers so taking time to create an attractive profile is important. You may find this helpful: Marketspread Vendor Profile Tips and Tricks

How big is the booth space?

Each space is 10’x10’. Tables and displays must stay within the space (not in aisles or walkways). Vendors cannot choose the location of their space, and may not be assigned the same space in every market.

Will I be able to drive up to my space?

Yes, vendors may drive to their booth space and unload/load materials. All vehicles must be out of the market 15 minutes before it opens. To prevent congestion, vendors must unload their supplies and remove their vehicles before setting up their display.

Where can I park?

Vendors are directed to the vendor parking lots to leave the closer spaces open for customers. Maps are supplied in the vendor agreement.

Is there electricity available?

The are limited spaces with electricity available. Food vendors are encouraged to use alternate methods of cooking and heating.

How much does a space cost?

One space costs $27 per market (2024) due on the day of attendance. There is an additional $25 approval fee charged once a year to assist with managerial costs. The approval fee is due on or before the first market day attended.

How can I pay for my booth?

Payment can be made with a credit card online through Marketspread each week (or you may sign up for auto pay which will charge your card on file the day before the market). You may use cash or a check as well. In addition, there are $5 market tokens that may be received by any vendor as “cash” which can be used as payment for their booth or turned in and reimbursed from Market Central at the end of the day. $1 SNAP tokens and $1 Virginia Fresh Match coupons can be used similarly. Any combination of these methods is acceptable. Payment is due by the end of the market day. Read more about our market currencies here.

I have applied to the market, now what?

You will get an email when your market application is received. Decisions on accepting and booking vendors are complex. We must maintain a variety and balance of products within categories (for example, a variety of baked goods). Farms and food are our priority.

When will I know if I am assigned a space at the market?

If your application is approved, you will receive an email notifying you. On Wednesdays, the vendor list will be sent to your email.

What if I have to cancel?

Vendors are booked each Wednesday. Cancellations need to be made by the vendor before Wednesday so that the space may be reassigned to another vendor. After Wednesday, you will need to contact the market managers directly to be removed from the schedule. Repeated violations of the policy will result in the loss of booth space.

Do you provide tables or tents?

No, vendors are expected to provide their own tables, tents, and tent weights (which are required for safety concerns).

Do I need to have my VDH or VDACS inspection completed to apply?

Inspections do not need to be completed to apply to the market, however, they are required to attend. The Virginia Department of Health may schedule an inspection on your first market day.

Any advice on displaying at a farmers market?

There are many ways to arrange your space at the farmers market. Considerations include whether you will be standing behind a table or inviting customers under your tent to browse. Dressing the tables with at least a tablecloth is advised. Food vendors have requirements regarding ingredient listings that can be done in creative ways. Grouping items in similar colors, similar sizes, or similar shapes helps customers to focus on your products more easily. Be engaged with your customers!