⦿ The Zipper Fest 2026 takes place on Saturday, September 12th (1pm-7pm)

⦿ Applications Available March 19th, 2026

⦿ Priority Application Deadline: June 1st, 2026.

⦿ Priority Notification of Invitation June 8th, 2026

⦿ Late applications considered, space permitting (10$ late fee will be applied)

⦿ Payment due upon acceptance to secure spot no later than June 22nd, 2026

⦿ Deadline for a full refund: August 1st, 2026

⦿ Set up: Saturday, September 12th, between 9:30am-12:30pm

⦿ Tear Down:  Saturday, September 12th, 7:00pm

⦿ Booth Fees:

-$85/vendor & $50/students.   Student price discounted to encourage and support up and coming new artists.

*$10 Fee will be applied for Late applications (after June 1st, 2026)

We encourage all people to apply even if funds are an issue and we will work with you to get a booth when you are accepted.

⦿ The Zipper will provide each Vendor with a 10X10 designated space. This can include: 2 chairs and a 6-foot table for your use if indicated need on your application.  You will be able to unload and park your vehicle for free for the duration of the festival in a nearby lot.

⦿ Vendor must provide their own tent, anchors (4 weights mandatory), and any other display materials needed. As always, let us know if you need something!

The Zipper Festival can accommodate 50+ Vendors. These artists will be selected by our jurors, a group composed of three to five people from the Columbia community.  Products will be chosen that reflect our overall mission and vision of The Zipper. This includes handmade items with a price point that makes your art accessible.  The submitted work will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

⦿ Quality/Craftsmanship

⦿ Professional appearance/Inviting booth display

⦿ Originality and Uniqueness

If you submitted an application by June 1st, you will be notified no later than June 8th, 2026. If you submitted your application after June 1st, 2026, we will review your application, space permitting, and notify you within the week.

When you accept the invitation to participate in our festival, we will do what we can to assure you are happy, comfortable, and selling your wares to the loads of people showing up!  Some of the perks included are listed below.

⦿ Free water and choice beverages to vendors for the duration of the event

⦿ Booth sitters to provide you with a break if needed

⦿ Volunteer assistance with load in and load out

⦿ Free, reserved parking close to the event

⦿ Artist hospitality and Information station

⦿ Advertising will include website, social media platforms, posters, yard signs, postcards.

⦿ Website advertising will include each artist’s name, links, and color photos.

Once you accept the invitation to participate in The Zipper, you will be able to secure your booth space by paying the booth fee.  Payment is due by June 22nd, 2026. If you need to, you may request a full refund of the payment before August 1st, 2026.  Refund requests cannot be fulfilled after this date. No exceptions.