Applications to Trade at Tourism Events

Applications to Trade at Tourism Events in Ards and North Down Borough Council (ANDBC) Area 2026

Please note that in a change to previous years, and as a result of trader feedback, the deadline for applications for all events is 13 March 2026.

The Application Process

Stage One

All applications for events will be initially assessed by the Smallworld team in relation to compliance with regulations, insurance, health and safety and environmental considerations. All applicants that have submitted all requested documentation will progress to Stage Two of the application process.

Stage Two

A three-person panel will then assess all the successful applicants from Stage One and will award spaces based on pre-defined criteria for each event, a summary of which is detailed below.

Perhaps the biggest change for traders on an operational level, will be the need for full compliance with ANDBC’s environmental standards.

All stalls must use fully compostable packaging for their product and on confirmation of your application, samples of all packaging materials will need to be received by the Smallworld office in order to ensure full compliance.

Please note that in 2026 these MUST be supplied by the individual traders and hold the following standard mark.

Recycling stations will be supplied on site for the disposal of compostable waste and stallholders must advise their customers of the same.

All traders are advised that stall waste must be disposed of off-site to the same recycling standards and fines will be imposed for any litter left or disposed of at ANDBC recycling stations.

Further to requests by traders at events, we will be offering a facility to purchase recycling bags for waste removal at events. These bags, once appropriately filled, can be left at the site recycling stations for disposal. Only purchased bags are eligible for disposal by ANDBC cleansing teams – all other waste must be disposed of off-site as stated above.

Application

For more information on each event, click the pod below or on the name of the event you wish to find out more about:

May Day, Sea Bangor Festival, Comber Earlies Food Festival, Tide and Turf Festival, Ards Christmas Light Switch On.

Apply now - Download application form.

Please return your application to becky@sworldltd.com. Please note, the deadline for applications for all events is 13 March 2026.

Summary of Events and Fees

To view a summary of events and fees, click here.

Communication following application

Please note: that no discussion will be entered in to as regards the success or failure of individual applications.

All correspondence regarding the application process is being administrated by Smallworld Music Ltd. - the staff of ANDBC will not be able to enter into any communication regarding the same.

Please note that any accounts that were still outstanding at the end of 2025, will not be eligible to apply for positions in 2026.