Sherkston Shores Outdoor Market Vendor Application

Our Facebook group serves as the primary platform for all market communications. For this reason, we collect your Facebook name, as the group is private and membership requests must be verified upon approval of your application.

Please Note: We are only able to have one email address and one phone number on file.

You will have the opportunity to add vendor notes at the end of the application, just before submission. This section allows you to include any additional information you feel was not already covered in the application.

You will have the opportunity to add vendor notes at the end of the application, just before submission. This section allows you to include any additional information you feel was not already covered in the application.

Your product list must be specific and clearly describe the items you intend to sell. Vague or general descriptions are not acceptable. The Committee must be able to understand exactly what your product is and the variations you offer.

Bad Example: Jewellery
Good Example: Gold Custom Bracelets, Beaded Necklaces

If you wish to add additional products to your application after it has been submitted, please contact sherkstonmarket@gmail.com.

A complete list of market dates is available in Section D of the Sherkston Outdoor Market Vendor Handbook. Please clcik here to view. 

You will have the opportunity to add vendor notes at the end of the application, just before submission. This section allows you to include any additional information you feel was not already covered in the application.

You will have the opportunity to add vendor notes at the end of the application, just before submission. This section allows you to include any additional information you feel was not already covered in the application.

Document Link: https://bit.ly/SOMHandbook2026

Section A - Mission, Administration and Definitions

A1. Mission - The Sherkston Shores Outdoor Market (the “Market”) is dedicated to building a lively and welcoming space where local entrepreneurs and community members come together. Our goal is to support small businesses, showcase unique products, and create a dynamic experience that brings people closer to the heart of our community. We are committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and fostering connections that make the market a place for everyone to enjoy.

A2. Administration - The Market is operated by the Sherkston Outdoor Market Committee in partnership with Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores. The Committee holds authority over Vendor selection, rule enforcement, and operational decisions. Vendors shall comply with all directives issued by the Committee and/or Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores, as well as applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws.

A3. Liability - Sun Communities, Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores and the Committee disclaim any liability for damages to personal property or vehicles on Market grounds. Vendors accept full responsibility for any damage they cause to persons, property, or vehicles.

A4. Annual Registration - Participation in the Market requires annual re-registration. Vendors must complete the application process each year and submit all required materials in a timely manner. Acceptance in a previous Market season does not guarantee acceptance in subsequent years.

A5. Definitions

1. Homeowner - A person listed as the Applicant and/or Co-Applicant on a valid and current License of Occupation issued by Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores or Pleasant Beach Campground. Homeowners are prioritized in Vendor space allocation. If two primary representatives are listed on the application form, both primary representatives must be Homeowners (Applicant and/or Co-Applicant).
2. Non-Homeowner - An individual who does not hold a current License of Occupation at Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores and/or Pleasant Beach Campground and is therefore subject to general availability and capacity limits for Vendor participation.
   Vendor - Any individual or entity whose application to participate in the Sherkston Shores Outdoor Market has been accepted by the Committee, and who offers goods or services for sale at the Market.
3. Primary Representatives - One or two individuals designated on the Vendor’s application who are authorized to represent the Vendor and are required to be present for the entire duration of each Market day. No substitutions or changes may be made to these individuals after application approval.
4. Secondary Representatives - Individuals who may be listed by the Vendor as additional representatives and who are permitted to assist at the booth. Secondary Representatives are not required to remain for the full Market day and may not act as a substitute for a Primary Representative.
5. Committee - The Sherkston Outdoor Market Committee, a volunteer body responsible for Vendor selection, Market operations, enforcement of rules, and administration of this handbook.
6. Market Grounds - The designated physical areas within Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores where Market operations are authorized to occur, as specified by the Committee. 

Section B - Pre-Season Vendor Requirements

B1. Application and Registration

1. Vendors must submit a complete application identifying no more than two individuals as Primary Representatives. These individuals are responsible for representing the Vendor during the Market season. At least one Primary Representative must be physically present in the Market Grounds for the full duration of each Market day.
2. Applications must include a detailed list of products intended for sale, in addition to photographs of the listed products. Any additions to the Vendor’s list of products require prior Committee approval.
3. Any discrepancies, omissions, or false information provided in the application will result in immediate denial of the Vendor’s application.

B2. Example Product Restrictions and Grounds for Denial - Applications may be denied for products that:

1. Are illicit or illegal;
2. Are dangerous or pose a risk to attendees or the Market;
3. Contain alcohol;
4. Contain offensive content including but not limited to profanity, racism, or sexism;
5. Violate Canadian trademark laws, including counterfeit or non-authentic goods;
6. Involve food or beverages without proper licensing or permits.

B3. Food Vendor Requirements - Vendors offering food or beverage products must:

1. Comply fully with all applicable health regulations as outlined in Appendix A;
2. Provide valid health inspection and licensing documentation to the Committee;
3. Complete and submit the Niagara Region Food Vendor Application Form and obtain written approval from the Environmental Health Division of Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services prior to participating in any Market event. Proof of such approval must be provided to the Committee upon request. Vendors who fail to comply with these public health requirements are prohibited to operate at the Market and may be subject to removal.

Section C - Market Day Operations

C1. Attendance

1. Vendors must confirm their attendance in advance of each Market day. Failure to confirm by the applicable deadline, as outlined in Section D, will result in forfeiture of their space, and the Vendor may be denied entry upon arrival.
2. Attendance confirmation must be submitted using the official attendance form provided to Vendors.
3. In addition to the Primary Representatives listed on their application, Vendors may designate up to two Secondary Representatives. These individuals will be accompanying the Vendor in the Market Grounds.

C2. Arrival and Check-In

1. Homeowners shall proceed directly to their assigned booth as indicated on the booth map posted in the Committee’s Facebook group, subject to any amendments made in accordance with Section C2.C.
2. Non-Homeowners must check in with a Committee member to pay applicable fees prior to setup.
3. The Committee reserves the right to amend the booth map at any time, including but not limited to filling the Market front to back or accommodating specific Vendor needs when circumstances require.
4. Arrival Schedule
   
   1. Homeowners: 7:30 a.m. to 7:50 a.m.
   2. Non-Homeowners: Exactly 8:00 a.m., not permitted to line up earlier than 7:45 a.m. Entry permitted through the main gate only.
   3. Aisle Vendors: 8:40 a.m. to 8:50 a.m.
5. Vendors requiring electrical power must request it on their application; availability is limited and prioritized for Homeowners and refrigeration or cooking needs.
6. Vendors are responsible for providing appropriate and safe extension cords.

C3. Setup and Booth Requirements

1. Vendors shall provide their own tents, tables, and tent weights. Use of tent, tables, and tent weights are mandatory.
2. Vendors must utilize tablecloths and/or other appropriate methods of covering table legs.
3. Booths measure 10 feet by 10 feet with a two-foot separation between adjacent booths. If Vendors require more than 10 feet, they must request it on their application or by contacting the Committee.
   
   1. Aisle Booths measure approximately 6 feet by 6 feet. Use of a tent or umbrella, tables, and tent weights are mandatory.
4. Displays must remain within booth boundaries and shall not obstruct neighboring Vendors’ visibility. Signage is prohibited in front of booths, however may be displayed in the middle of the aisle near garbage receptacles.

C4. Conduct, Cleanliness, and Departure

1. Vendors must maintain their booth areas in a clean and orderly condition at all times throughout the Market day. Small waste items may be disposed of in on-site garbage receptacles; however, large waste and/or excess packaging must either be taken off-site by the Vendor. All garbage must be properly discarded by the Vendor promptly following the conclusion of the Market day at 2:00 p.m.
2. Booths shall not be dismantled prior to 2:00 p.m. and all Vendors must be vacated from the Market Grounds by 3:00 p.m.
3. In cases of severe weather, early closure may be announced by the Committee.Vendors shall vacate the Market Grounds within one hour of such notice.
4. Non-Homeowners shall vacate Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores promptly after Market closure and are prohibited from making deliveries within Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores.

C5. Communication and Advertising

1. Primary Market communication, shall be posted in the private Committee Facebook group. Vendors are responsible for regularly monitoring this group.
2. Vendors shall not advertise in Sherkston-based Facebook groups; only the
3. Committee may post Market promotions in such groups.
   Vendors consent to photography and videography for Market promotional purposes.

C6. Inclement Weather Protocol

1. Vendors are expected to attend the Market during rain.
2. The Market will not be cancelled before 9:00 a.m. on Market day.
3. If conditions are severe (e.g., heavy downpour preventing setup), the Committee may, at its discretion, cancel the Market, and all decisions will be communicated to Vendors promptly.

Section D - Attendance Protocols and Market Calendar

D1. Saturday Market Attendance Schedule

1. Monday @ 12:00 p.m. – Attendance opens
2. Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m. – Attendance closes
3. Friday @ ~3:30 p.m. – Booth Map is posted
4. Saturday – Market Day

D2. Wednesday Market Attendance Schedule

1. Thursday @ 12:00 p.m. – Attendance opens
2. Saturday @ 6:00 p.m. – Attendance closes
3. Tuesday @ ~3:30 p.m. – Booth Map is posted
4. Wednesday – Market Day

D3. Weekly Attendance Schedule

1. Monday @ 12:00 p.m. – Saturday Attendance opens
2. Tuesday @ ~3:30 p.m. – Wednesday Booth Map posted
3. Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m. – Saturday Attendance closes
4. Thursday @ 12:00 p.m. – Wednesday Attendance opens
5. Friday @ ~3:30 p.m. – Saturday Booth Map posted
6. Saturday @ 6:00 p.m. – Wednesday Permanent Attendance closes
7. Sunday – No scheduled activity

D4. The Committee and Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores reserve the right to adjust attendance deadlines as deemed necessary. All changes will be communicated to Vendors in a timely manner.

D5. The Committee and Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores reserve the right to alter Market locations or cancel events as deemed necessary. All changes will be communicated to Vendors in a timely manner.

D6. Weather conditions, including high winds, rain and other hazards, may affect the operation of this event and could lead to cancellation or postponement. In the event of a long weekend Saturday Market, said Market may be rescheduled to Sunday. The decision rests with the Committee and Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores.

D7. Market Dates - Unless otherwise indicated with a single asterisk (*), all Market events shall take place in the Sales Yard at Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores. Market dates marked with a single asterisk (*) will instead be held at the Soccer Field at Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores. All Market dates are subject to cancellation in the event of insufficient Vendor enrollment.

1. May 2026
   
   1. Saturday, May 16th
2. June 2026
   
   1. Saturday, June 20th
   2. Saturday, June 27th
3. July 2026
   
   1. Wednesday, July 1st
   2. Saturday, July 4th
   3. Wednesday, July 8th
   4. Saturday, July 11th
   5. Wednesday, July 15th
   6. Saturday, July 18th
   7. Wednesday, July 22nd
   8. Saturday, July 25th
   9. Wednesday, July 29th
4. August 2026
   1. Saturday, August 1st
   2. Wednesday, August 5th
   3. Saturday, August 8th
   4. Wednesday, August 12th
   5. Saturday, August 15th
   6. Wednesday, August 19th
   7. Saturday, August 22nd
   8. Wednesday, August 26th
   9. Saturday, August 29th
5. September 2026
   
   1. Wednesday, September 2nd
   2. Saturday, September 5th
   3. Saturday, September 12th

Section E - Fees and Infractions

E1. Fees

1. Homeowners - Not applicable.
2. Non-Homeowners - Must pay the fee outlined below, in cash, at check-in with a committee member. Vendors classified as a farmer and/or grower by Niagara Region Public Health will have their booth fee waived.
   
   1. $10.00 CAD per booth per Market day in May, June, and September.
   2. $20.00 CAD per booth per Market day in July and August.

E2. Infractions and Deductions - The following table provides examples of infractions for which the Committee may impose deductions from the Vendor’s deposit, as outlined in Appendix C. The Committee reserves the right to assess deductions for any reason.

Infraction	Classification	Deduction
Smoking or vaping within the Market grounds	Major	$25.00 CAD
Unauthorized property access by a Non-Homeowner	Major	$25.00 CAD
Primary representative not in attendance	Major	$25.00 CAD
Failure to attend after confirming their booth	Major	$25.00 CAD
Failure to use tent weights	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to use a tent and/or table	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to use tablecloths	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to maintain booth cleanliness	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to arrive within the designated arrival window	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to properly place aisle signage	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to vacate Market by close time	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to remain open for full market hours	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Failure to properly dispose trash	Minor	$10.00 CAD
More than four representatives present at booth	Minor	$10.00 CAD
Sale of unapproved products	Minor	$10.00 CAD

E3. Enforcement - The Committee and Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores reserves sole discretion to assess infractions, apply fines, and enforce removal from the Market. All decisions shall be final and binding.

Section F - Important Notices

F1. Organizational Structure and Oversight - The Sherkston Shores Outdoor Market is organized and operated by volunteers in partnership with Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores. All participants, including Vendors, Homeowners, and guests, must comply with Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores rules, as outlined in Appendix B, as well as all applicable municipal, provincial, and federal laws.

F2. Authority and Rule Amendments - The Market is overseen by Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores, and all directives issued by Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores and/or the Committee are final and binding. Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores retains overriding authority over all Market operations. The Committee, as a volunteer body operating under the oversight of Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores, may modify these rules in consultation with Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores as necessary to ensure orderly operation.

F3. Conduct and Respect - Respectful conduct towards Vendors, homeowners, customers, Committee members, and the Sun Communities and Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores brand is mandatory at all times. Any behavior detrimental to the integrity or reputation of the Market or Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores will be subject to enforcement actions.

F4. Communication Protocol - Participants are to refrain from contacting individual Committee members directly. All inquiries, concerns, or requests must be directed through the official Sherkston Market Committee Facebook page or via email at sherkstonmarket@gmail.com.

F5. Non-Compliance - Failure to comply with any provision set forth in this document, or any directive issued, will result in immediate removal from the Sherkston Shores Outdoor Market and the termination of the Vendor application.

Appendix A - Niagara Region Public Health Regulations

AA1. Vendors are required to review and comply with all applicable Niagara Region Public Health regulations, which govern food handling, temperature control, sanitation, handwashing stations, product labeling, and other public health requirements.

AA2. These regulations are binding on all food and beverage Vendors and form part of the terms and conditions of Market participation.

AA3. The complete document is available at https://bit.ly/SOMPublicHealth.

AA4. Vendors are responsible for ensuring they are familiar with and adhere to all applicable provisions. Failure to comply may result in immediate removal from the Market grounds and/or disqualification from future participation.

Appendix B - Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores Rules

AB1. Vendors are required to review and comply with the Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores Rules, which govern conduct, use of property, parking, access, and interactions with all guests and staff. These rules are binding on all participants and form part of the terms and conditions of Market participation.

AB2. The complete document is available at https://bit.ly/SRSherkstonShoresRules.

AB3. Vendors are responsible for ensuring they are familiar with and adhere to all applicable provisions. Failure to comply may result in immediate removal from the Market grounds and/or disqualification from future participation.

Appendix C - Vendor Agreement

AC1. Vendors must sign a vendor agreement to participate in the Market. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of their involvement and ensures a clear understanding of expectations and responsibilities.

AC2. The complete document is available at https://bit.ly/SOM2026Agreement.

You will have the opportunity to add vendor notes at the end of the application, just before submission. This section allows you to include any additional information you feel was not already covered in the application.

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:

The Sherkston Outdoor Market Committee is responsible for the administration and day-to-day operations of the market; however, Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores oversees all committee operations.

Please note that any information submitted through this application, as well as any correspondence, including emails directed to the Sherkston Outdoor Market Committee, may be accessed by any overseeing parties for any reason.

By submitting this form, you acknowledge and consent to the collection, use, and limited sharing of your information as described above.