2026 Vendor Kit

SHOW MANAGEMENT 

Tacoma Holiday Festival is produced and managed by: 
Marketplace Events LLC
2000 Auburn Dr., Ste 200 
Beachwood, OH 44122 
www.marketplaceevents.com | www.holidaygiftshows.com

Click Here for The 2025 Move In Map

MOVE IN

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 arena by the Ne doors. Follow signs for "Vendor Check In" and "Show Office".  Aisle carpet will be installed in both Ex-Hall and Arena during Move-In.  All aisles must be kept clear during set up. 

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 - ARENA & EXHIBITION HALL 
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. No vehicles are allowed in the building.  Exhibition Hall can continue to set up their displays. The load-in through NW and NE Arena doors.

• On Wednesday, the Tacoma Dome security will use a numbering system to route trucks to the load-in areas.  THE FIRST 200 VEHICLES TO ARRIVE WILL “TAKE A NUMBER” AND BE STAGED IN ORDER TO UNLOAD. If you do not need to drive to a loading door, you will not need a number.  Park your car and hand truck your products to your booth.  Parking is free during move-in.  CLICK HERE for map of Tacoma Dome parking lots.
  
  
• The show decorator will provide material handling at the Tacoma Dome during move-in. If you need forklift services or shipping/material handling, please contact Trade Show Supply House, Inc. at 360-624-4498.
  
  
• After 8 pm, the building is locked down.  You may continue to work in your booth; however, you cannot leave your display area.  Once you leave the building, you cannot re-enter. 

All booths must be set up by 8:00 p.m on Wednesday October 14th

MOVE OUT 

SUNDAY OCTOBER 18
 6:01 PM - 10:00 p.m. Booth teardown can begin in both the Arena and Exhibition hall at 6:01 pm on Sunday October 18th. 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.

• The decorator will begin rolling up the carpet as soon as the show closes.  PLEASE KEEP AISLES CLEAR. Please do not roll carts over the carpet – hand carry only. This usually takes approx. 1.5 hours after show closing. All booths must be moved out of the building by 10:00 pm on Sunday.
  
  
•  Before leaving, exhibitors must remove all garbage and place in the provided receptacle bins. Failure to do so can result in fines issued by Show Management. 
  
  
• For the Arena booths that need to access the loading areas at move-out you must first pack up your booth. Once ready, contact a staff member by the roll up doors to verify you are ready to go and they will give you a move-out number.  Then you can retrieve your vehicle and bring to the loading door.
  
  
• If you do not need to use the loading area, you may pack up your booth and proceed moving out.

ADDTIONAL DETAILS 

• 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! 

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 NE side of the Arena. 

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. Do not rotate badges at Will Call, which is for one-time pick up only. 
  

• 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 

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 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 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

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. 

---

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.

---

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.  

---

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. The Tacoma Dome’s 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

---

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.

---

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.

SHOW ELECTRICIAN 

VENDOR RULES & REGULATIONS 

Please refer to the Tacoma Holiday Festival Rules and Regulations for a full detailed list of required rules and regulations. 

FINAL PAYMENT 

The full and final payment for exhs to automatically charge your card per the original contract, 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 

All stored items, including inventory and personal effects, must be kept completely out of sight. Storage space is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is located in the locker rooms in the breezeway between the Exhibition Hall and the Arena. Storage areas are located in locker rooms A-E. 

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.

DISPLAY VEHICLES 

Any vehicles must be approved by Show Management at least 2 months in advance of show.

For full list of conditions and information regarding show vehicles, please refer to Rules and Regulations

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.

PROOF OF GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

All Marketplace Events shows require show insurance. Coverage dates must include Move-In through Move-Out, October 13-18, 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 Tacoma Holiday Festival. 

Where can I park?

Please note all parking passes are purchased on site during move in through the Tacoma Dome, not through Marketplace Events.

NEW!! This year the Tacoma Dome has implemented a new parking system- Premium Parking. With this new system, vendors and attendees will be able to pre-register their vehicles and pre-pay to allow a seamless parking system without lines or delays. Please see information below to learn about the new changes.

Parking Passes are only required for show days.  There is no charge for move-in.

**Please Contact Premium Parking at 844-236-2011 for any customer service questions regarding parking**

Vendor & Attendee Rate Summary

**Note: In past years, vendor parking was offered at flat rates of $12  a day. With the new system sales tax applies**

**Note: Passes will not be transferrable between cars with this new system**

CLICK HERE to view a map of the Tacoma Dome parking lots/entrances.

Vendors can park at a discounted rate in F and G Lot

Click here to purchase vendor parking passes. 

• Rate: $12 + sales tax per space per day 

• Promocode's are per day. Use this when paying to get the vendor rate and be added to the approved list.
• Need help checking out? For a step by step walk through CLICK HERE.

M lot is sold out

ADA Parking 
If you need the accessible parking lot, please purchase either a F or M-Lot pass and that pass will be honored in the K-Lot, as long as you have a valid placard, tabs or license plate and there is space available. Please note that if this lot is full, you will need to park in the parking lot in which you purchased the pass.  lease see parking lot map K lot location

How to Pay:

• Use the Premium Parking website (linked above in lot sections) or scan QR code on-site.
• No smart phone? There will be an iPad available at the venue.

Restocking Trailers:

• If you bring a trailer, it must be registered separately.
• Parking is charged per space, per day.

**Please Contact Premium Parking at 844-236-2011 for any customer service questions regarding parking**

• Arrival Info:
• There will not be an attendant at the entrance specifically, attendees will be roaming —just pull in and park.
• You won’t get ticketed unless you park in the wrong lot.
• Prepaying helps you avoid delays at the door.
• Enforcement:
• No scanning needed.
• Parking is monitored by license plate cameras and roaming attendants.

Cash Payments

• Tacoma Dome does not accept cash directly.
• Use the cash-to-card machine inside the building.
• In that case, Tacoma Dome staff must enter your license plate info to avoid ticketing.

 

Can I bring an RV?

Please be advised that the Tacoma Dome does not offer RV parking or utility hookups.

If you have a 4-day parking pass, you may park your trailer or vehicle overnight in the F Lot, but this is at your own risk. Each vehicle or trailer requires its own pass and must occupy only one designated space. Overnight stays or sleeping in any vehicle on Dome property is strictly prohibited, and there is no security provided in any Tacoma Dome parking lot.

For RV accommodations, we recommend Majestic RV Park, located approximately 10 minutes from the Tacoma Dome.

• Standard rate (for 2 guests): $79 + tax per night

• Discounted rate (Good Sam or military): $71.10 + tax per night

• Amenities include full 30 & 50-amp hookups, free cable TV, Wi-Fi, water, sewer, garbage service, laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers.

• Reservation is strongly encouraged.

• Contact: 253-845-3144 or visit majesticrvipgliving.com

• Address: 7022 River Rd E., Puyallup, WA 98371

DOME PUBLIC 

You can also connect your POS systems to a personal hotspot for reliable internet access. This ensures seamless transactions even when traditional WiFi is unavailable.

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.

FOOD SAMPLING REQUIREMENTS 

Every exhibitor selling or sampling of food or drink must submit a Temporary Food Establishment (TFE) Application to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD) at least 14 days prior to event., along with payment if required.  Use the Temporary Food Establishment Permit application to help you discern whether you need to complete the Sampling/Tasting Courtesy Application. 

Please go to www.tpchd.org/healthy-places/food-safety/temporary-events to apply and pay fee for the Temporary Food Establishment Permit as well as the Sampling/Tasting Courtesy Application (if applicable).  You can apply online or email to food@tpchd.org.  Must be submitted 14 days prior to event.

All food and beverages sold at an exhibitor booth must be pre-packaged and sealed for at-home consumption. 

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.

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.

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.

Any shipments arriving before October 13th will not be accepted and will be returned at the exhibitor’s expense. 
 
Click here to view the shipping label

• All major shipments, i.e., crates, will be off-loaded with forklifts and delivered to designated booth locations. IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT EXHIBITORS ARE ON HAND TO RECEIVE THEIR SHIPMENTS.  This avoids damage and theft of goods and ensures delivery to correct booths.
  
  
• Exhibitors not on hand to receive their shipments may find that they have not been accepted and have remained with the carrier. 

The Tacoma Dome’s 24-hour security office does NOT sign for deliveries on behalf of exhibitors, nor do they store shipments. Any shipments arriving before October 13th will not be accepted and will be returned at the exhibitor’s expense. 

Contact Tradeshow Supply House Inc. at 360-624-4498 or via email Bryan@thedecorator.net for additional advanced shipments options

PARTNER HOTELS 

Emerald Queen Casino

1515 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402
253-294-9200

RATE TBD

ADDITIONAL HOTELS 

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tacoma
1.0 miles to the Tacoma Dome
1425 E. 27th Street Tacoma, WA 98421

RATE TBD

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

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: #TacomaHolidayShow #TacomaGiftShow

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.

Check Back here for the 2026 Facebook Event

Click Here for the Social Media Marketing Kit