The vendor application process begins with completing our online application form found below. Our team carefully reviews each application to ensure a diverse and high-quality vendor lineup. Selected vendors receive a confirmation email detailing event specifics, including vendor fees, policies and setup instructions.

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FAQ ABOUT CARLSBAD NIGHTS

 

1. What is Carlsbad Nights?

Carlsbad Nights is a monthly outdoor night market hosted at The Shoppes at Carlsbad Mall. Starting October 4, 2025, the event will take place every first Saturday of the month from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

This vibrant evening market brings together:

• Delicious food vendors

• Unique retail & artisan sellers

• Family-friendly entertainment

• Live music and activities

It’s a fun community gathering where vendors can showcase their products and connect with hundreds of local shoppers under the stars.

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Upcoming Carlsbad Nights dates 2025-2026 (first Saturday of each month):

1. November 1, 2025

2. December 6, 2025

3. January 3, 2026

4. February 7, 2026

5. March 7, 2026

6. April 4, 2026

7. May 2, 2026

8. June 6, 2026

9. July 11, 2026 (July adjusted due to the 4th of July holiday)

10. August 1, 2026

11. September 5, 2026

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2. How do I apply to become a vendor?

The application process is simple:

1. Complete the vendor application form at the end of this FAQ.

2. Wait for approval. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and approval is required before securing a booth.

3. Select your booth space. Once approved, you will receive a special link to choose your booth location from the available spaces on the event map. Spaces are first-come, first-served.

4. Get ready for the event. You’ll receive setup instructions, parking details, and an event map a few days before the market.

 

3. What types of vendors are you looking for?

We welcome a variety of vendors, including:

• Food & beverage vendors: Hot foods, packaged foods, desserts, snacks, and drinks.

• Retail & artisan vendors: Handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, collectibles, and specialty goods.

• Specialty service vendors: Face painting, activities, and interactive booths.

📌 Important: Food vendors must comply with all City of Carlsbad and County of San Diego Health Department regulations.

 

4. How much is the vendor fee?

• $50 per 10×10 space (standard vendor space)

• $110 per 10×30 space (designated for large open-fire food vendors, Food Trucks/Trailers)

✔ Vendors may purchase multiple spaces if available.
✔ Spaces are limited and will be confirmed only after payment.

 

5. What permits do food vendors need?

All food vendors are required to provide:​

• A valid TFF (Temporary Food Facility) Permit issued by the County of San Diego.

No exceptions will be made — vendors must have permits ready before the event to sell food.

 

6. What are the fire safety requirements?

For everyone’s safety, the following rules apply:

• All canopies must be fire-retardant and carry proper labeling.

• Open flames are only allowed in designated cooking areas.

• Open flames must remain at least 20 feet away from all tents.

• Food vendors using open fire are required to bring a Class K fire extinguisher (for grease/oil fires) or equivalent.

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7. How is booth space assigned?

• Booths are assigned after approval and payment.

• Vendors will receive a link to choose their booth location on the map.

• Spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Returning vendors and those who apply early will have priority placement.

 

8. What are the setup and teardown times?

• Setup begins at 2:00 PM. Vendors must be completely set up by 4:30 PM.

• Event hours are 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Vendors are required to remain open for the full duration.

• Teardown begins immediately at 9:00 PM. Early takedown is not allowed.

🚫 For pedestrian safety, vehicle access is strictly prohibited between 4:00 PM and 9:30 PM. Vendors must finish unloading before 4:00 PM.

 

9. Is electricity provided?

No. Electricity will not be provided. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own portable power source.

Because this is a night market, vendors must be prepared to install their own lighting fixtures inside their tent.

Power guidelines:

• Gas-powered generators are allowed if they are low fume and low noise. If any complaints are received, vendors will be asked to turn them off and remove them.

• Battery-powered generators are highly recommended (quiet, safe, easy to operate). These are available from most retailers, including Amazon.com.

• Vendors should bring extension cords, surge protectors, and backup lighting if necessary.

 

10. Where do vendors park?

Vendors may unload at the designated loading area and then must move their vehicles to vendor parking.

• Parking details and a map will be provided before the event.

• Vehicles must be out of the vendor area by 4:00 PM sharp.

• Parking is free but limited to designated areas.

 

11. Do I need a Seller’s Permit?

Yes. All vendors selling any type of product are required by law to have a valid California Seller’s Permit and display it visibly in their booth during the event.

 

12. What happens if it rains or the event is canceled?

Carlsbad Nights is a rain-or-shine event.

• If the event is canceled due to heavy rain or other unforeseen reasons, vendors will receive a credit to be applied to the next scheduled Carlsbad Nights event.

• No cash refunds will be issued.

 

13. Who do I contact if I have questions?

For vendor support, please reach out to:

📧 info@culturedvibe.net
📞 Josh: 760-880-8016
 

We’re here to help with applications, permits, setup, and event-day logistics.

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