General Information
This program is designed for small businesses aiming to establish a presence in Muskegon’s retail or food industry, offering a unique opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services. Located within the chalets, vendors can take advantage of high visibility during popular events like the Muskegon Farmers Market, Art Fair, Rebel Road, and other downtown gatherings, attracting both local residents and tourists. However, vendors should be prepared for slower periods when pedestrian traffic in downtown Muskegon is limited.
This program is not intended for existing brick-and-mortar businesses located in downtown Muskegon. Additionally, it is not designed for businesses that primarily provide services, as the focus is on retail establishments. Vendors with brick-and-mortar locations outside of the downtown area may be considered, but only after all other applications have been reviewed and prioritized.
Your application will not be accepted unless it is complete and includes the $25 application fee. The committee will choose vendors to make sure there is a variety of products for people to enjoy. If you are selected, you will get an agreement to sign, and staff will assign you a spot. All vendors must help promote the chalets.
All accepted applicants will be expected to meet with Northern Initiatives and submit a business plan before their application can be approved. A non-refundable application fee of $25 is required. Deadline to apply is Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 5 pm.
A committee made up of downtown business owners, the Muskegon Chamber of Commerce, City staff, and other supporters of downtown will review all items. Applicants will find out by March 21, 2025, if they have been accepted. A $300 non-refundable deposit is due within two weeks of being accepted to hold your chalet. The first lease payment is due by April 30, 2025, and the second payment is due by July 15, 2025.
Minimum Required Hours Please note the dates and times are the minimum requirements. Vendors may stay open longer than the dates and times listed.
May 24 – August 30: Thursdays 11am-5pm, Fridays 11am-5pm, and Saturdays 10am-4pm
June 1, 8, 15, & 22: Sundays 11am-4pm
August 31 – September 30: Fridays 11am-5pm, and Saturdays 10am-4pm
October 1 – October 31: Saturdays 10am-4pm
These days and hours are MANDATED and will be followed for all chalets. Please consider who can cover your chalet if you cannot be there. Vendors will be given four (4) days they can close throughout the season for emergencies, illness, vacation, etc. Any days after this, the vendor will be fined $100 per day and could be subjected to eviction.
Cancellation Policy
There are no refunds for vendor cancellations. Vendors are not allowed to sublet their location to another vendor. If a vendor sublets their location, they will lose their lease and will not receive a refund. Only vendors listed and approved in the original agreement are permitted to operate.
Electricity/Lighting
We have a very limited amount of electricity available. Please be specific about your power needs when applying. Generators are not allowed, and running water is not available.
Costs
- 90 sq. ft user fee – new: $1,450, 3+ years: $1,750
- 120 sq. ft. user fee – new: $1,925, 3+years: $2,325
- 150 sq. ft. user fee – new: $2,350, 3+years: $2,825
PLEASE NOTE – Common Area Maintenance Fees: Vendors will also be charged $52.94 per month for the months of June, July, August, September, and October in addition to the lease primarily for the cost of electricity as well as a few other expenses of the chalets.
Application/Payment Process
Payment may be made to:
City of Muskegon
Economic Development
933 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49440
Cash, check, and credit card are accepted.