SHOW MANAGEMENT 

Victorian Christmas Festival is produced and managed by: 
Marketplace Events LLC
2000 Auburn Dr., Ste 200 
Beachwood, OH 44122 
www.marketplaceevents.com ww.victorianchristmasfestival.com

Victorian Christmas is a unique holiday market that has two unique requirements for your booth- Victorian Dress and Booth Garland. 

VICTORIAN DRESS CODE

BOOTH GARLAND  

To enhance the visual appeal and maintain a cohesive holiday theme, ALL vendors are required to use garland to decorate their booth. Most booth spaces will feature a classic Victorian-style storefront façade, adding a nostalgic charm to the event.

• Vendors with a storefront should hang garland along the façade.
  
• Vendors without a store front  can display their garland along the back of the booth.

The garland can be either faux or live and must look authentic, evoking the traditional style of the Victorian era with natural greenery, classic ribbon, or vintage-inspired accents. Creative interpretations are welcome, but decorations should complement the historic aesthetic and contribute to the immersive ambiance. For setup, vendors should bring their own staple gun or appropriate tools to securely attach the garland to their store front.

Garland must be securely fastened to the booth frame using weatherproof, flame-retardant materials, and hang no lower than 7 feet. Electrical components, shedding decorations, and sound effects are not allowed. 

IMPORTANT 

VENDOR RULES & REGULATIONS 

Along with reviewing the Vendor Kit, it is required all vendors read through the Victorian Christmas Festival  Rules and Regulations Document.

MISSED PAYMENTS 

After three (3) missed payments, your contract is subject to cancellation without a refund, and your booth space will be released. If you wish to restart payments, monthly payment plans will no longer be available. Your only options will be a 50/50 payment split or payment in full. Please note that your original booth space may no longer be available, and you will need to select from the remaining options

FINAL PAYMENT 

The full and final payment will automatically charge your card per the original contract on November 15th, 2026. Please ensure funds are available within the required timeframe. Any outstanding contracts after the show cycle will be automatically forwarded to collections. The vendor will remain responsible for the booth space fees and will be prohibited from exhibiting in future Marketplace Events.

For any questions regarding payment, please contact Emily Bedient at  EmilyB@mpeshows.com or 503-567-5712.

STORAGE 

MASCOTS 

We are pleased to feature a contracted Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus who will be available in a designated area for photo opportunities during the event. Guests will be directed to this area to enjoy their visit with these beloved holiday figures.

To maintain the integrity and flow of the event experience, only the official Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present in character roles. As such, vendors are kindly asked not to include mascots or additional holiday characters in their displays.

POLITICAL MERCHANDISE POLICY 

Marketplace Events (MPE) wants to make clear its position on what content will not be permitted on its exhibit floors in all its US consumer home and holiday shows effective January 1, 2024.

MPE shows are welcoming environments built solely to encourage face-to-face commerce. Creating respectful, safe marketplaces where our attendees and exhibitors can come together to learn, shop, compare pricing and do business together is our highest priority. MPE’s acceptability standards do not permit political candidates, parties or other groups promoting issues or ballot initiatives to participate as exhibitors. In addition, the display or sale of any products or services that are political/partisan in nature or that can be interpreted to promote, incite, or glorify hatred, violence, racial, sexual, or religious intolerance are prohibited. MPE’s judgment in applying these standards will be final.

EXHIBITOR BOUNDIRES 

Nothing, including carpet or banners may extend beyond the designated boundaries of your booth into the aisles, above your pipe & drape, or into adjacent booths. Solicitation outside your booth parameters is strictly prohibited.

DISTRACTING DEVICES 

Attention-attracting devices such as noisemakers, flashing lights, movies, music, broadcasting, or drawings are subject to Show Management approval. Show Management will promptly ask any vendor to remove any attention attracting and/or distractive devices being used without prior approval. 

Devices that are deemed distracting or disruptive to other exhibitors will not be permitted. Hardwall systems must be used for stereo equipment to minimize noise.

EXHIBITOR CONDUCT 

Show Management reserves the right to refuse admission or ask any exhibitor or exhibitor’s employee to leave the facility if they are deemed unfit, intoxicated, or disruptive to the show.

Click Here for The 2025 Move In Map

MOVE IN

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 - 
8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3 - 
8 a.m. – 8 p.m

CLICK HERE.  to print and complete the Security Pass and help alleviate congestion at the service gate.

• This tag is for move-in and move-out purposes and allows you one hour for unloading. Once your vehicle is unloaded, please park it in the ORANGE Lot and return to complete the setup of your booth. This process is designed to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for all participants.

CLICK HERE for the grounds and parking map. Free Parking is available for all vendors in the Green parking lot off of Fairview Drive during move in/move out. Trailers requiring parking for show days or overnight will be directed to the Green Lot. The Orange Gate will be used for Vendor access to the grounds during Move In and restocking.

While the load-in areas are clearly labeled, please be aware that they are subject to change depending on weather conditions. We recommend checking for updates closer to the event. Upon ARRIVAL, please pick up your badges at the show office located in the back of the Showplex. Follow signs for "Vendor Check In" and "Show Office".  All aisles must be kept clear during set up. 

•  No vehicles will be allowed in the building unless previous arrangements have been made.
  
• There will be no placing, moving, altering or dismantling of a display after 9:00 am on Thursday, December 4th. If you cannot adhere to this schedule, please contact Show Management immediately. During move in, please make sure to breakdown any cardboard for the facility staff to pick up.

All booths must be set up by 8:00 p.m on Wednesday December 3rd

MOVE OUT 

SUNDAY DECEMBER 6 
 6:01 PM - 10:00 p.m. Booth teardown can begin in both the at 6:01 pm on Sunday December 6th. DO NOT pack up your booth before show closing, customers are still on site to make purchases. Please respect your fellow vendors and valued attendees by adhering to this enforced policy. 

You will not be allowed to move your vehicles close to the buildings until vehicles can move safely about after all of the attendees have left the grounds, this may be 15-30 minutes after the show closes. 

CLICK HERE for the grounds and parking map. Free Parking is available for all vendors in the Green parking lot off of Fairview Drive during move in/move out. The Orange Gate will be used for Vendor access to the grounds during move out.

• No vehicle traffic will be allowed in the buildings unless previous arrangements have been made. Please be courteous and do not block the truck entrances or doors. Your patience is appreciated as some displays and carpet must be removed before any vehicles and/or trailers can come into the buildings.
  
• All booths must be fully dismantled and packed by Sunday evening. Garland and any items attached to pipe/drape and storefronts must be removed to allow contractors to begin dismantling them. 
  
• Please note: Monday is not designated as a move-out day.  There will be a pick-up window for remaining materials on Monday morning from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Please see Show Office to be put on a list for Monday morning pick up.

ADDTIONAL DETAILS 

• During the hours of move-in and move-out, driving on any grassed areas is strictly forbidden. If you are found parked or driving on the grass, you will be billed any cost associated with the repair or replacement of the grass, per Washington State Fair Events Center regulations.
  
• The show decorator provides a minimal number of handcarts to help with move-in; however, exhibitors are strongly advised to bring their own dollies and handcart's.  Please remember to label all your personal property – such as handcarts and tools. 
• For safety reasons during the move-in/move-out hours there are NO CHILDREN ALLOWED under 16 years of age (including infants). Children are prohibited inside, around the show halls, and parking lot. This precaution is taken due to vehicles operating in the building, including forklifts and machinery that are dangerous. Injuries to children will be covered by insurance because of this regulation. THIS WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED! 

FORKLIFT SERVICES 

Marketplace Events does not provide forklift services for move-in or move-out. Due to insurance policies along with the facility requirements, all forklift service must be contracted through the Show Decorator.

Please contact:
Trade Show Supply House
Bryan@thedecorator.net
360-624-4498.

VENDOR BADGES 

Vendor Badges are required for entry during show days. Please pick up your badges during move-in at the Registration Desk in the Show Office located in the back pf the Showplex. 

DO NOT LEAVE YOUR BADGE IN YOUR BOOTH. Replacement badges are $7/ea if badge is lost or left in booth

• Each booth receives up to 5 badges for exhibitor staff, which gains access to the building on show days. You are responsible for distributing the Badges to your booth personnel.If you need to leave badges for staff, they can be picked at Will Call at the Gold Gate
  

• All exhibitor personnel must be 16 years of age or older.

If you need more badges than the alotted amount, please contact EmilyB@mpeshows.com 

VENDOR ENTRY & RESTOCK ACCESS

Vendors arriving on show days between 8-9 a.m. need to use the gold gate on the corner of 9th Ave. and Meridian. Vendors arriving after 9am can use wither the Gold or Blue Gate. YOU MUST HAVE YOUR BADGE VISBALE TO ENTER.

If you need to use a vehicle for restock access you can enter through the Orange Gate. When restocking during show days you will receive a one-hour pass at the gate for load in purposes only. 

SECURITY 

A Vendor badge will be required to enter the show floor. All loading dock doors will be closed and there will be no access granted during show hours. If you need to restock your booth with supplies, please do in the two hour window before the show opens.  Security is permitted to stop any Vendor from entering or exiting through the side entrances or loading dock doors. There is no smoking or vaping allowed inside the building. 

There is no smoking allowed inside the building. 

Exhibitors will be subject to a search prior to entering the facility. This can include bags, backpacks, purses, briefcases, etc.  Please be prepared for this on opening day and arrive early. 

BOOTH PLANING 101 

We know from experience that booths with on theme  decor do best! Watch the video below for inspiration and guidance as you plan for the show:

Expectations

VICTORIAN DRESS CODE & GARLAND REQUIERED 

The Victorian Christmas Festival is a unique holiday market where a Victorian Dress Code and Booth Garland are both required. Please refer to the section titled "Victorian Dress Code & Booth Garland" above for a detailed break down and examples. 

HOLIDAY DECOR REQUIRED 

This is Winter Holiday event, all vendors are expected to plan their booth décor accordingly. Think of your booth like a picture window at a department store, proper set up and decoration will make turn an attendee your customer! Lights, trees, garlands, and ornaments are just a few suggested ways to transform your space. 

We offer Locally grown Poinsettias for $12/ea. To order, email the amount of Poinsettias desired to  EmilyB@mpeshows.com.

FLOORING 

It is mandatory that all exhibit booths have flooring that covers 100% of your booth's square footage. 

• All flooring must be clean, and professional looking. Approved flooring types include carpeting, interlocking foam tiles, astroturf, hardwood, tile, vinyl flooring
  
• You may bring your own or rent from Trade Show Supply
  House
  
• All floor edges must be secured with double sided tape on the underside of the carpet. Duct tape is not permitted. Any tape or residue left on the floor after moving out is subject to a fee
  
• Protective material must be placed on the floor before laying bricks, patios, etc. Do not drill holes, nail glue or affix flooring.  Any damage (including unremoved tape) to the Tacoma Dome flooring will be repaired at the Vendor's expense. 

TABLE SKIRTING AND COVERINGS 

It is mandatory that all tables are properly covered and skirted. To ensure your booth looks professional and inviting to the attendee, all inventory and personal items must be stored COMPLETELY OUT OF SIGHT.

• Skirting must go from the edge of the table to the floor on all four sides. All skirting must be pressed and neat.
  
• Use of plastic tablecloths, sheets, shower curtains or any type of “makeshift” tablecloths is not permitted.
  
• Trade Show Supply House is available to rent tables that will be properly skirted for an additional charge

**all incorrectly skirted tables at the Vendor’s expense. 

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PIPE AND DRAPE 

All inline exhibit spaces will have three 'walls' made of 8’ high pipe with black drape, one on each side and one at the back. 

Corner booths will have two sides of 8' high, black drape, open on the corner.

End cap booths will have black pipe and drape on the back wall.

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SIGNAGE 

All signs must be tasteful and professional. All signage should fit within your square footage and be no higher than your 8' pipe and drape.

• Signage may not impede adjacent booths.
  
• Signs identifying your booth, company or products must be clear and informative.
  
• No signs over 8 feet high are allowed. 
  
• Any booth signs or product should not block show signage or other displays. 
  
• The use of handwritten signs, paper banners, large discount pricing cards or other such material is not permitted.

**Please note the Tacoma Dome policy forbids the hanging of signage from the building structure.  

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BOOTH LIGHTING 

Due inconsistent overhead lighting throughout the dome, all vendors need plan for additional lighting in their booth, especially those on the inline and perimeters. Overhead lighting will not be adjusted on show days. 

Adequate lighting will not only enhance visibility but also highlight your display beautifully!

• Reminder that one 500 watt 120-volt duplex receptacle will be provided for each booth. Receptacles are shared, located around the back of each booth. Do not move receptacles from installed location, these must be accessible to neighboring booths.

• Besides festive Christmas lights, CLICK HERE to brose some lighting options for your booth 

• You can rent lighting equipment through Trade Show Supply House for a convenient solution

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DISPLAYS 

Only products agreed upon in the signed contract can be sold and displayed in your booth. 

No structure can go above your 8ft pipe and drape. 

All exhibits must be free standing and self-supporting. Free standing bulletin boards, signs, etc. may be used providing exhibits are not hidden from view. Unfinished sides or backgrounds must be draped. Racks and display shelves must not unduly obstruct visibility of adjacent exhibits. Tables must be professionally skirted (no plastic) with floor-length skirting on all visible sides.

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12 COMMON BOOTH MISTAKES 

Avoid these common mistakes when exhibiting and see your engagement increase!

1. Not enough space in your booth.  When you inquire about booth space, always tape out the dimensions on your floor before coming down to the show to get an idea of how much room you have, and how you want to lay out the space so you are better prepared. 

2.  No goals/measurable results.  Set yourself a goal for the event, whether that's booking 10 appointments/consultations or handing out all your marketing materials with a conversation.  This will keep you accountable and driven.  

3.  Forgetting the "three second rule".  You only have 3 seconds to make an impression on a customer walking by.  That means your display has to be something that intrigues them, as well as you have to appear available to them.

4.  Bad Signage.  Don't make it a guessing game as to what your booth is offering.  If you have bad signage in your booth or hand written signs, you are advertising that you aren't professional or prepared enough.  Plan your display out in advance and print things out professionally or from your printer and put them in a nice frame/display.   

5.  Booth design that acts as a barrier.  If you can't invite someone into your booth for a conversation, that means they are lingering in the aisle where they are going to get pushed around and more likely to keep walking.  Don't put a table right at the front of your booth, leave room for them step into your space and chat with you.

6.  Inexperienced staff.  You are at the show to sell/market your services.  If you have inexperienced staff at your booth, that's what you are advertising to your customer, that you are inexperienced.  Prepare your staff ahead of time to be able to answer questions and train them appropriately for the event.  

7.  Passing out literature instead of having a conversation. People can read about your company online, they come to the show to have a conversation and to be told why you are the right vendor for. 

8.  Talking and not listening.  Let the customer ask their questions and listen to what they want.  If you are always sales pitching, you may miss important details to know if they are the right client for you or not.

9.  Sitting in the back of the booth.  You look disinterested and hard to approach, be sure to check in with your body language and be approachable.

10.  Eating, being on your phone, working on computer etc.  By being unavailable you miss the opportunity to talk with someone.  Be sure to have a team member there who can cover for you if you need to eat your lunch or take a call.  If you aren't present and available to chat, you are going to miss potential sales.

11.  No means of gathering contact info.  Be sure to have a method of capturing potential leads.  Ensure you are capturing the details of people who are interested in what you have to offer and give them an easy digital form to fill out.  Don't leave it up to them to contact you by just taking your card.

12.  Poor follow up or no follow up.  Be sure to follow up with customers within the days of the show so you are fresh in their minds.  Don't just do it once either, follow up with them again the month after to remind them! 

SHOW DECORATOR 

Trade Show Supply House, Inc
360-624-4498
Bryan@thedecorator.net

CLICK HERE for 2025 Trade Show Supply House form and send completed document to Bryan@thedecorator.net

Discount Deadline: TBD

The Show will be using black drape and red aisle carpet. If you would like special color drapes other than those furnished by Show Management, you may order them for an additional fee.

• If not ordered in advance, services and equipment will be subject to “floor order” rates.
  
• Show decorators work standard 9am - 5pm hours during move in and out. The show decorator will have limited availability during show days.

ELECTRICIAN 

Washington State Events center handles all electricity needs in house. Each booth is furnished with one (1) fused 120-volt duplex receptacle outlet of up to 5 AMPS capacity without charge. Plug ins are near the back or side of your booth and may be shared with your neighbor. Do not use more than you allotted plug ins. If you need addition power fill out the electricity form which you can find here:

PROOF OF GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

All Marketplace Events shows require show insurance. Coverage dates must include Move-In through Move-Out, December 2-6 , 2026. Liability requirements are $1,000,000.

It is mandatory that we are listed on your policy as additional insured:

Marketplace Events LLC
2000 Auburn Dr Ste 200        
Beachwood, OH 44122

Please email a copy of your certificate to  MichelleD@mpeshows.com prior to show open. Neither Show Management nor the Tacoma Dome will accept responsibility for injury to persons, loss of or damage to products, exhibits, equipment, or decorations, by fire, accident, theft, or any other causes while in the building.

Exhibitors, or their agents, must provide adequate insurance for their own personnel, the public, exhibits and materials against all such hazards.

RECCOMENDED INSURANCE PROVIDORS

There are several companies which offer short term insurance for events, such as Insurance Canopy, John Buttine Insurance, ACT insurance, or Hartford Insurance.

Even though we have security on duty, Marketplace Events, LLC and the Tacoma Dome will not accept responsibility for loss or damage of merchandise during the move-in, show, or move-out of the Victorian Christmas Festival 

Only licensed caterers and selected concessionaires may bring or serve foods, alcoholic, or other beverages on the premises of the Washington State Fair Events Center. If you have any questions, please contact Washington State Fair Events Center at 253-845-1771

FOOD DEMONSTRATIONS

PRE-PACKAGED FOOD 

DAILY PARKING 

Move-In/Move- Out: Free Parking is available for all vendors in the Green parking lot off of Fairview Drive during move in/move out. Trailers requiring parking for show days or overnight will be directed to the Green Lot.

Parking during show days: Free parking is available to all exhibitors in the Blue and Gold Parking Lots on South Meridian Street, across from the show from December 4-7. No overnight parking is allowed in these lots.

Handicap Parking- Handicap spots are available at the front of both the Gold and the Blue lot. These spaces are first come, first serve.

Inside parking on the Fairgrounds has LIMITED availability Once you are parked inside the fairgrounds you must remain there until the end of the show each day. The Washington State Fair Events Center will charge $90.00 per vehicle for the days of the show. Due to the limited availability of parking passes,  please only inquire if you have specific mobility needs or require access for onsite restocking trailers. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us ensure that these passes are allocated appropriately. Your respect for this policy will greatly assist us in managing the limited spaces. This parking pass MUST be purchased at the Show Office during move-in days. 

PERSONAL HOTSPOT RECCOMENDED  

A personal hotspot is recommended for consistent reliable internet access for you and your POS systems. This ensures seamless transactions even when traditional Wi-Fi is unavailable.

The Washington State Fair Events Center offers free limited Wi-Fi access, but you will be automatically kicked off and need to login every 15 minutes. They do not provide technical support. 

For access select “Fair Guest” in your devices Wi-Fi. Wait and select “Accept Terms” when prompted.

The Washington State Fair Events Center does not provide DSL service. For a secured line, you must order through the venue site via this form:

Washington State Events Center Telephone Service Form

Return form to the Fair Office or order through a local provider. If you have questions please call Brenda at the Washington State Fair Events Center at 253-841-5057.

UPGRADE YOUR VENDOR LISTING TODAY 

Maximize your business’s exposure and attract more customers by upgrading your vendor listing. As a vendor, you have a basic listing live on the website, and now you can Enhance It! This is included in the contracted space cost and is no additional charge.

You should have received an automated email providing a link to elevate your listing. This link gives you the flexibility to make updates and changes to your listing as frequently as you like until one day after the show ends. Your listing will stay active for as long as you participate in the show.

If you have any questions regarding the online vendor listing or if you do not receive the email with the link, please email our digital coordinator at JenK@mpeshows.com.

For any assistance with your listing, please consult the FAQ section.

We believe this opportunity will greatly benefit your business and we are excited to assist in maximizing your presence at the show.

Learn more about the benefits of creating your enhanced listing.
GO FROM BASIC TO ENHANCED!

CLICK HERE for a video tutorial.

Sponsorship Opportunities and Booth Traffic Drivers - Get some extra bang for your buck at the Victorian Country Christmas Festival! Work with us to get more people to your booth.

Guest Passes - All Exhibitors will receive 8 complimentary tickets per company! Send guest show tickets to your clients, prospects and friends. All vendors registered prior to November 12th will receive digital tickets directly from the Washington State Fair Events Center.  Those vendors registered after November 12 can pick up your guest passes during move-in from the Show Office. If you would like to order more than the 8 tickets provided, additional passes can be purchased for only $10.00 each.

BOOTH EXCELLENCE AWARDS 

We are pleased to recognize vendors who go the extra mile in creating exceptional booth experiences. To be eligible for a booth award, vendors must meet high standards which include: festive holiday decor,  flawless floor coverings, professional signage, an inviting layout, and strict adherence to booth boundaries.

AWARD CATAGORIES 

Best Holiday Decor
Celebrates the booth that best captures the festive spirit of the season. This award honors creative use of seasonal decorations that bring warmth, charm, and holiday cheer to the event.

Best Dressed Recognizes the vendor who dazzles with the Victorian era wear. Presented to the vendor who fully embraces the Victorian dress code from head to toe, creating a truly immersive and authentic experience for all.

Jolly Award
Recognizes the vendor who brings joy and positivity to the show. Awarded to the team that creates a welcoming atmosphere through friendly interactions, enthusiasm, and a cheerful presence.

Best Product Display
Highlights the most effective and visually appealing product presentation. This award goes to the booth that showcases its products in a clear, organized, and engaging way that draws in attendees.

Social Butterfly
Rewards the vendor with outstanding social media engagement. Given to the booth that actively promotes their presence online, interacts with attendees digitally, and creates buzz through creative content.

Newbie Award Given to a first-year vendor whose overall booth experience goes above and beyond. Awarded to a first-year vendor who exemplifies excellence in every detail. 

Best In Show
The highest honor for overall excellence. Awarded to the vendor who excels in all aspects—booth design, decor, product display, engagement, and professionalism—setting the standard for others to follow.

PARTNER HOTELS 

	Emerald Queen Casino RATE: TBD 5700 Pacific Highway East, Fife, WA, 98424, US 833-314-5474
	Fairfeild by Marriot Puyallup RATE: TBD 202 15th Avenue SW Puyallup, Washington 9837  253-770-3100.

ADDITIONAL ACCOMODATIONS

Best Western Plus Puyallup, WA

Website: Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel & Conference Center | Hotel Rooms

Phone: 253-848-1500

Website: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Puyallup (Tacoma Area) - Puyallup, United States

Phone: 253-848-4900

Website: The Hampton Inn & Suites Puyallup

Phone: 253-770-8880

SHARE YOUR SHOW PICS WITH US! 

Share your planning process and show pics with us to help build hype for the event!

Click the icons below for our profile pages  

Hashtags: #VictorianChristmas   #VCF26

In efforts to protect potential joint customers from fraudulent events and scammers, we request that you do not create your own Facebook Event. This helps us manage ticket sales for the event,and ensures that our team are available to support both exhibitors and potential attendees with any questions, comments, or concerns that they have. Please reach out to your show manager or show marketing manager with your companies’ Facebook page and we can add you as a co-host to the official event.

Click Here to go to our Facebook Event for 2025.

Click Here for the Social Media Marketing Kit and some images you can share