This event was new for them. They were trying to get something going for the local community to be more involved and I think it was really fun and nicely organized. The communication was limited but precise. There were a small number of booths available to begin with, tables and chairs were provided and they had a lot of things going on for people to do. It was even warm, so the petting zoo and s'mores were great for everyone!
It took place at the Creekview Recreation Center in Minneapolis.
Before the Event & Setup
I left kind of late to arrive to this because it was an evening event and it was pretty close. I want to say like 25 minutes or so away? It was very easy to find but the parking lot was pretty small so I wasn't really sure how much traffic this whole thing would even get. I did notice there was a lot of houses in the local area so maybe they were banking on people walking to it? Not sure, but I know several did walk over so if that was the goal, it seemed to be effective.
Not having to bring a table at all was my favorite thing about this event. I loaded my wagon up and only had to make one trip back to the car since the pin spinner rack just can't ever fit conveniently. My daughter has become a super pro at setup, so everything was ready except the pin rack by the time I got back inside.
We had plenty of time to just sit around before it started because of it. Honestly, not having to unload the table saved us a ton of time in general since that thing is so large and takes a minute to setup and then I have to bring everything else in. Events that don't provide tables will become a low priority to me in the future I think. They even helped me lift my wagon into the side door.
The Event Itself
The event was busy, kids everywhere! I loved it and wished my daughter had walked around more. They had a petting zoo outside and s'mores for the kids. The food trucks were to die for. I wish I remembered the one I had but the garlic wings were AMAZING.
Sales were not the best but it was a first time event for them so I had zero expectations and was really happy to even be there. There was a DJ and a videographer that came around and interviewed all of us about our stuff. They asked me about my site and I fumbled about it lol. I have no idea where the video is posted if it ever was but I am so ashamed about it. It is really nice they featured us though so I can't complain.
Whatever they have planned, if they keep it up, I do think it will grow as an event.
I didn't buy anything at this event though I wanted to buy from the lady across from me who was making dog toys. She got busy at the end so I couldn't wait and ended up leaving since it was after 5pm. If you find this and read it, just know I wanted something but you were talking to the dog collar people.
What Worked & What Did Not
It was a small comfy event so it actually felt really good. I got to meet a lot of very nice people and so many children who were wanting my products (which makes me happy). I think it being small was nice so it was more personal.
Loading in and out was super fast. I didn't like how dark it was. Not a real big complaint.
The staff was extremely welcoming and helpful. We had plenty of space. Still love that the table was provided. This alone was worth attending.
Sales were slow but it is a new event so that was probably the only downfall to this event.
Conclusion
I enjoyed the event overall. I am undecided if I would attend if invited back in 2024, but it was a short event. If I am, it's not like it would be a problem to go. It was close enough, well organized and not loaded with too many vendors. There was one MLM (Color Street). The vendor selection all had a great variety too so none of us were selling the same things.
The Details (TLDR)
Event: Winter Solstice
Date: December 16, 2023
Location: Creekview Recreation Center, 5001 N Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55430
Hours: 5pm-8pm, loading time 4pm
Total Vendors: 24
Attendance: ~100
Travelworthy: Okay for locals within a 10-15 minute drive, not worth for anyone out of area or state.
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Booth Cost: $25 for a 10x9 space
Total Sales: $60 (this is before all costs are taken out)
Transaction Fees: $1.86
Taxes: $4.96
Total Profit: $28.18