Vendors & applications
Season 13 — June 20–21, 2026 · South Loop, Chicago. Use this page as your checklist for licensing, insurance, and all requirements before applying to the 2026 festival.
Season 13
Vendor Checklist
Important Note: Below is the complete checklist of required documents for your vendor type. Please submit all documents directly to us (the event organizer), not to BACP or DCASE. Deadline: June 1, 2026. We will review your documents as part of the application process.
Food Trucks (mobile trucks)
Check off each item:
Note: Licensed Chicago food trucks do not need the Summer Festival Sanitation Certificate.
For Retail & other vendors
Check off each item:
If you are retail, merchandise, or another non–food-truck / non–tent category, you still follow the same vendor contract and payment requirements — use the checklist items above in place of the City food licensing rows shown for food trucks and tent vendors.
Important Information for All Vendors
Please upload all required documents through the Vendor Document Portal. We will review your packet and submit it to the City of Chicago on your behalf.
- Single event application forms (for food trucks and food tents) are available on the upload page. Download, complete, and attach them there. (If needed).
- A certified food manager must be present at all times for food vendors.
- Deadline: All documents must be submitted by June 13, 2026.
- Completed applications are automatically accepted into the event.
- Load-in logistics will be emailed to you two weeks before the festival.
2) What each license means + how to get it
Clear definitions, submission instructions, contact info, and key dates.
| License / certificate | What it means (simple explanation) | Where to get it | Contact info | How many days before the festival? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Food Truck License (MFP or MFD) | Your main city license that allows the truck to operate and prepare/sell food on the street. | BACP (Business Affairs) | 312-744-6249 BACPSpecialEvent@cityofchicago.org |
Must already be active before applying to the festival |
| BACP Business License / Account Number | Your official city business ID number. | BACP | 312-744-6249 | Must be active |
| Foodservice Sanitation Certificate (year-round) | Proof that your manager knows basic food safety rules. | Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) or approved providers | Food Protection Division: (312) 746-8030 | Must be current |
| Summer Festival Food Vendor Sanitation Certificate | Short class about food safety at outdoor summer events (only needed for tents/booths). | Illinois Restaurant Association or other approved trainers (classes March–August) | Illinois Restaurant Association: 312-787-4000 | Renew every year — get it at least 3–4 weeks before the festival |
| Special Event Food License (Single Event or 180‑Day) | Extra permit that says you are approved to sell food at this specific festival. | BACP (for 180‑day) or through the event organizer (for single event) | BACPSpecialEvent@cityofchicago.org or Lawrence.Smith@cityofchicago.org |
Single Event: at least 20–21 days before the festival 180‑Day: earlier (recommended if you do multiple events) |
How Many Documents Do You Need?
- Food Trucks: 6 items total (4 City/licensing documents + vendor contract + payment)
- Tent / Booth Vendors: 7 items total (5 City/licensing documents + vendor contract + payment)
- Retail & Other Vendors: 2 items total (vendor contract + payment — use the third checklist column)
- Tip: Start early. The Summer Festival Sanitation Certificate and Special Event License can take time to obtain.
- New to vending? Contact BACP first — they can guide you through the process.
Apply now
Food Truck Vendors Please summarize your concept and the markets you serve. Feel free to attach your insurance certificate if available. We typically reply from info@chicagofoodtruckfestival.com.
Ready with Permits & Documents? Upload everything through the Vendor Document Portal. This allows us to review your packet and compile what the City requires.
What guests say
I had a chance to taste two of my favorite dishes, Jamaican jerk bowl and casa birria and some margarita.
I want the food trucks to return every summer!
The Taste of Chicago Festival and This Food Truck Festival look super cool.