The Downtown Rochester Kris Kringle Market is an open-air market inspired by the 700 year-old tradition of the European Christmas markets. Visitors can enjoy food, shopping and live entertainment under the lights of Rochester’s famous Big, Bright Light Show.

The market also offers visits with Santa Claus, a chance to play in child-size gingerbread houses, and a warm up by the s’more station. Patrons can take a break in our Warming Tent for a glass of gluhwein or a pint of beer!

On average the Kris Kringle Market attracts 10k attendees for the weekend.

The Rochester DDA is seeking vendors that have product lines appropriate for the holiday season including: gifts, specialty foods, décor, unique hand-crafted items. The event committee aims to provide a unique and diverse market for the holiday season!

Important details before applying:

DEADLINE TO APPLY: Friday, September 5 (upon application completion you will receive a confirmation email via Jotform)

  • The 2024 Kris Kringle market will be hosted on Friday, December 5 and Saturday December 6.

  • Cost to participate is $450 per 10 x 10 booth space.

  • All applicants will be notified of acceptance or denial of their application no later than Friday, September 12.

  • The Rochester DDA aims to create a unique and festive shopping experience for our attendees. To ensure a diverse and high-quality selection of vendors, we will evaluate applications based on the following criteria:

    1. Uniqueness

    • Originality: Products should stand out in the market, offering something different from what is commonly found.

    • Innovation: Items that show creativity and new ideas in design, function, or presentation.

    2. Quality

    • Craftsmanship: Products must be well-made with attention to detail, using high-quality materials.

    • Presentation: Products should be attractively presented, showcasing professionalism and care.

    3. Holiday-Centric & Giftable Items

    • Seasonal Relevance: Items should be suitable for the holiday season, whether through theme, design, or intended use.

    • Festive Appeal: Products that enhance the holiday spirit, such as decorations, holiday-themed gifts, and festive attire.

    • Appropriateness: Products should be suitable for gifting, appealing to a wide range of recipients

    • Affordability: A range of price points to accommodate different budgets is preferred.

  • Our goal is to keep the market diverse for customers and successful for vendors, the Kris Kringle Committee and DDA reserves the right to limit the number of vendors in each product category. Duplications will not be accepted.

  • All applicants must submit detailed information regarding their product line including photo representation of said product and booth set-up.

  • The following requirements must be available upon acceptance into the market.

    • Vendors shall obtain and furnish to the Rochester DDA proof a Commercial General Liability Insurance. The certificate must list the Rochester DDA as additional insured.

    • Vendors are required to hold all applicable licenses and permits necessary for their operation per local health laws, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and any other government regulatory agency. The Rochester DDA reserves the right to request copies of these license and permits at any time.

      License/Permit Examples include:

      Michigan Sales Tax ID, Wholesale Food Processor, Nursery Dealer License, Special Transitory Food Unit.