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2026 Request for Qualifications for Food Vendors at Special Events

Food Vendor Application Guidelines

The City of Alexandria produces numerous special events throughout the year. The purpose of this call is to select the most-qualified food vendors to serve at live in-person events produced by the City. Please review the full guidelines on how to apply.

Selection Process: To ensure a diverse range, the food vendors will be selected based on the following criteria:

1. High standard of food excellence is a top priority.
2. Consideration will be given to Alexandria-centered or DC/Virginia/Maryland food vendors.
3. A focus on the culinary history of Alexandria or cultural demographics will be considered but not required.
4. Food vendors will need to have experience serving at large outdoor events.
5. Vendors must have a clean record with no permit or license violations.

Applicants are reviewed by a volunteer task force and City staff. The city reserves the right to make the final decision on selections.

Fees & Requirements: Selected food vendors must pay a $500 vendor fee to the City of Alexandria if selected. Fees are due no later than Friday, May 29, 2026.

Timeline of Vendor Process 2026:
· Monday, April 27, 2026: Call for applicants opens
· Friday, May 15, 2026: Vendor submits application through online city portal no later than 11:59PM.
· Friday, May 22, 2026: Vendors are notified of selection and placement at one Signature Event and at least one Community Event.
· Friday, May 29, 2026: Vendors submit registration payment ($500), proof of Alexandria Food Vendor License, and flame permit (if applicable). If requesting a 10x10 tent, the $185 tent fee must be paid at this time, as well.
· Wednesday, June 6, 2026: Vendor confirms final menu and setup logistics with City Staff.
· Ongoing: Vendor fills out and submits event survey to provide feedback regarding their experience, and/or lessons learned upon completion of either a Signature Event or Community Event.
1.Contact Person's Name
2.Business Name
3.Phone Number
4.Email Address
5.Mailing Address
6.Type of Food/Beverages you sell. Please be specific.
7.Are you currently permitted to sell food/beverages in the City of Alexandria?
8.Is this your first time selling at a city event?
9.How long have you provided your food vendor services to Alexandria residents?
10.Social Media Handles (enter n/a if you do not have one)
11.Website Address
12.Can you vend/sell food and beverages outdoors?
13.Please provide information of previous large events where you have served as a food vendor.
14.Please describe your food vendor setup during a large event (ex: food truck, 10x10 tent, food carts, etc)
15.Do you require any electrical source? Do you require gas for cooking? Please explain any special needs and how you provide for it.
16.Please name another Alexandria event that you have served as a food vendor in the past 2-3 years.
17.Have you partnered with any Alexandria businesses or organizations in the past 2-3 years? If so, please share:
18.Why are you interested in being a vendor at our Signature and Community Events?
19.Please select which Signature Events you are applying for consideration (Select at least one).
20.Please select which Community Events you are applying for consideration (Select at least two).
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