The Merchants of VEG
Vendor Application

Step into a marketplace worthy of the Bard! The Merchants of YEG is the Freewill Shakespeare Festival’s artisan market, bringing together local makers, artists, and creators in a lively outdoor setting alongside our performances.

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Hosted on Saturdays throughout the festival, the market runs during both our matinee and evening show times—giving vendors access to a built-in audience of engaged, culturally curious patrons.

 

Why Participate?

• Connect with hundreds of festival attendees in a single day

• Showcase your work in a unique, high-energy arts environment

• Be part of a beloved Edmonton summer tradition

• Enjoy a curated market atmosphere (not a crowded, oversaturated vendor fair)

 

We welcome applications from all types of vendors, including handmade goods, visual art, crafts, and unique products.

 

We especially encourage vendors whose work draws inspiration from:

• Shakespeare and the works of the Bard

• Medieval or Renaissance aesthetics

• Fantasy, folklore, and historical themes

 

Market Details

Saturday, June 20

Saturday, June 27

Saturday, July 4

Saturday, July 11

 

Located in the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park

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Load in: 12:00-1:00pm

Market times will be before the matinee from 1:00pm-1:30pm, during the intermission, and after the show (approx. 4pm) as the audience leaves. The evening market will open again 7:00pm, during intermission, and briefly after the show.

Load out: Around 11pm (depending on show length).

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As you will be within the amphitheatre, you are invited to enjoy the show with the audience. We are within a fenced area that does have security on site, so if you wish you leave your booth for a time between performances, you are welcome to do so. 

Vendor Cost​

• A $50 refundable deposit is required to secure your spot

  • This deposit will be returned to you upon attendance at your scheduled market date

 

Vendor Responsibilities

Please note that vendors are responsible for providing their own:

• Tables and chairs

• Tent or weather protection (if desired)

• Payment system (cash, card, etc.)

• Setup and teardown within assigned times

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We provide the space—and the audience!

 

Limited Spaces Available

To ensure a high-quality and balanced market, space is limited and not all applicants will be accepted. We encourage you to apply early, as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and priority will be given to early submissions.

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Ready to join The Merchants of YEG?

Apply below!