Some of the most frequently asked questions, by market traders.

  • My application is accepted but where's my pitch situated?
    Normally we only finalise your pitch allocation about 2 weeks before the event. (Because we need to make sure everybody has paid, that we have not put similar stands close to each other and because our limited power supply must be balanced across the site.) We will write to everyone then.
  • Will I get the pitch I indicated on the application form?
    Not necessarily, we use these indications to understand the area where you wanted to be not to specify exact locations. We will contact you if we intend to put you in a different area to your original application.
  • When can I set up?
    For stands opening on the first morning, you can set up any time after 6pm on the evening before. Otherwise you can set up from 7am of the morning that you will be trading (Day stands can must be set up and taken down on the day of trading).
  • What about loading and unloading?
    There is no parking in Parliament Street. However, you will be allowed to drive into the street within certain hours (the times are in our Terms and Conditions) and unload your vehicle before taking it to a near-by car park. The footstreet hours are: Friday – 11.00am to 4.00pm; Saturday 10.30am to 4.30pm; Sunday 12.00 noon to 4.00pm.
  • What about parking?
    When we send you information about where your pitch will be located, you will also be sent a 'parking permit' which allows you to park in certain council car parks for half price. (Please note this does not guarantee you a space)
  • What if I need to have a fridge / freezer van, holding extra produce, plugged in?
    We have an arrangement with one standholder to park a van in the street. The council insists on limiting our right to park vans because the shops in Parliament Street need space for deliveries. If it's imperative, we can discuss allowing you to borrow space in the one refrigerated van. However, we have an arrangement with the city council to use the Eco-Depot (about 15 minutes walk away) where you can leave your van securely and have it plugged in to electric. If you do wish to book one of these slots, you need to include your registration number and time of arrival on the application form.
  • What if I am in a pitch that is supposed to close at 5pm but I would like to trade later?
    You are very welcome to stay open from 9am to 9pm, in any location except the large marquee (stands 1 to 15) which must be secured at 5pm. Minimum hours vary please see prices and opening times.
  • My pitch is listed as from 11am - can I trade earlier?
    Yes if you wish, including stands selling alcohol, from 9am
  • I'm selling alcohol, do I need to apply for a licence or TEN?
    No, the entire site is covered by a licence that allows the sampling of product (to appropriate adults) and the sale of alcohol in sealed containers. The licence is in the name of the City Council's City Centre Manager and you need to sign a disclaimer for the licensee accepting your responsibilities as a retailer (this will happen on the morning of your arrival). You also need to accept instructions from the licensee about what he regards as responsible behaviour.
  • I would like to sell alcohol to drink at the Festival, can I?
    Sorry no, only a specific number of stands specially commissioned by ourselves and situated within an enclosure can sell alcohol to drink on the site.
  • Where is the Festival. - What if I get lost?
    The Markets all take place in PARLIAMENT STREET York YO1 8RU or the area adjacent -ST SAMPSON'S SQUARE. You will receive the terms and conditions through the post, with your pitch allocation, which will include a contact number.