What is MakerFest?  And what you need to know to apply to exhibit at Maker Fest.

What is MakerFest?
MakerFest is a day that we celebrate local makers.  

MakerFest takes place on November 2nd, 2019 from 10am - 3pm at the Washington State Fair and Events AgriPlex in Puyallup, WA.

Pierce County MakerFest is planned by and has the financial support of Pierce County Library, Pierce County Library Foundation, Puyallup Public Library, and Tacoma Public Library.  


What is a MakerFest exhibitor?

MakerFest exhibitors are people or organizations that exhibit their work, show how they make what they make, answer questions, lead hands-on activities, and if they choose sell their merchandise at MakerFest.


Should I apply to be a MakerFest exhibitor? 
If you are a maker and would like to share your craft with others please apply to be an exhibitor at MakerFest. 

Keep in mind that MakerFest is free for exhibitors and attendees, a hands-on experience for attendees is a must, and exhibitors must be prepared for 3000 MakerFest attendees.  More specific exhibitor rules and expectations are below, please read them to make sure MakerFest is the right fit for you or your organization.

How Exhibitors are Chosen:
 
There are two application review periods. The first is following the priority deadline on August 15th, and the second is following the final deadline on September 15th.  Things to keep in mind before applying:
  • The MakerFest planning team is seeking a variety of Makers representing different making categories, if you believe there will be many applicants in your category, apply by the priority deadline!
  • The number of exhibitors that can be chosen is limited by the number of exhibitors that can fit in the AgriPlex building.  We are expecting a record number or exhibitor applicants this year, so apply by the priority deadline for a better chance of being selected.
Rules, Expectations, and Information for Exhibitor Applicants 

Requirements: 
  • Hands on activity or interactive demonstration.
  • Staffed and open during official advertised hours, 10am-3pm.  Recommended that each exhibitor have at least 3 people helping at a table.  
  • Be prepared for at least 3000 MakerFest visitors.
  • Content shall be appropriate for viewing by all ages (family-friendly).
  • Exhibitor's name will be advertised online (makerfest.pcls.us) and day of event print material.
  • Help promote Pierce County MakerFest within your networks of friends and organizations (examples, share on Facebook, post on social media websites and newsletters, etc).    

Age Restrictions: 
  • Makers under the age of 16 must have a supervising adult present for the duration of the event.
  • Makers under the age of 16 may be assigned a 1-3 hour time-slot in which to present.

Merchandise- Makers are permitted to sell items, and promote businesses/organizations, within these parameters:
  • Makers may not offer food or beverages for sale. 
  • No “Garage Sale” or “flea market” items are allowed. 
  • Space dedicated to merchandise shall not consist of more than one third of the total exhibit area. 
  • All proceeds from sales go to the Maker.
  • Collection, reporting, and payment of Washington State Sales Tax is solely the responsibility of the Maker.  Organizers accept no responsibility for sales tax collection.
  • Organizers reserve the right to remove any item deemed objectionable for any reason.

Safety & Security: 
  • No smoking or alcoholic beverages permitted at any time.
  • Open flames are strictly prohibited.
  • No caustic chemicals allowed inside.
  • No nails, screws, or staples may be put in the walls, floor, or ceiling.
  • Makers are responsible for protecting their property from damage or loss.
  • Walkways must remain clear at all times. 
  • Food preparation is OK for demonstration purposes only; no consumption.

Exhibitor Amenities: 
  • A 10’ x 10’ space with one 8’ table, and two chairs are provided. Feel free to bring an additional table/chairs to customize to your needs. A survey question indicating your need will follow.
  • 10' x 10' booth perimeter will be divided by 3 foot pipe and drape, with an option to be against a wall if needed. A survey question indicating your need will follow.
  • Wi-Fi access.
  • Access to electric outlets is available, but limited. 

Question Title

* I agree to the Rules for Participating Exhibitors.

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