Since 2017, the Downtown Detroit Markets have created a magical and memorable holiday experience in Cadillac Square for Detroiters and visitors alike. Now in its ninth year, the Downtown Detroit Markets have served as a launchpad for more than 170 businesses, collectively generating more than $7 million in sales.
Applications will be open on April 28, 2026. See more information below.
Goals
- Showcase a diverse and unique selection of products to highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of artisans and small businesses in Metro Detroit
- Provide a platform for both established and emerging businesses, supporting their growth and contributing to the local economy
- Encourage consumers to shop local and support small businesses during the busiest shopping season of the year
- Cultivate a festive and welcoming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the holidays for families, residents and visitors
The Downtown Detroit Markets are funded by the Gilbert Family Foundation and managed by the Downtown Detroit Partnership with support from Bedrock and TechTown.
Ideal Downtown Detroit Markets Candidate
Businesses invited to apply should be product-based businesses selling family-friendly products. An ideal candidate for the Downtown Detroit Markets will meet the following criteria:
- Vendors must be selling a product. Service-based businesses will not be accepted.
- Products cannot contain alcohol, tobacco, drugs or weapons.
- Vendors cannot be a current Bedrock retail tenant.
- Vendors cannot be currently employed by Rocket Companies or any of its subsidiaries.
- Vendors cannot be a multi-level marketing business.
- Vendors must be registered with the State of Michigan and have a valid MI Sales Tax License.
- Vendors must be able to staff their shops for 50-hour weeks with no absences or closures.
- Any food-based businesses must be pre-packaged, handheld items. They must be produced in a licensed commercial kitchen or produced by copacker. Nutritional labels are required.
- Vendors must have been in business for at least two (2) years and generated a minimum of $10,000 in revenue.
- Prior participation in other large pop-up events is preferred (e.g. Eastern Market, All Things Detroit, Art Fairs, etc.).
- Vendors must have the ability to carry a minimum $1,000,000 general liability insurance policy.
- Vendors should have a well-rounded online presence. Website is preferred but not required. Social media presence on at least one channel (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) is required.
- Vendors should have a broad appeal and not a niche product.
- Apparel must be able to be purchased without having to be tried on.
- Vendors must have a variety of price points with the majority of products under $100.
Timeline and Key Dates
Applications open April 28, 2026.
- Info Session #1 – In Person: Thursday, April 16th | 6PM – 7:30PM | 1620 Michigan Ave. Suite 123, Detroit, MI, 48216
- Info Session #2 – In Person: Wednesday, April 22nd | 6PM – 7:30PM | 1620 Michigan Ave. Suite 123, Detroit, MI, 48216
Register - Info Session #3 – Virtual: Thursday, May 14th 6PM – 7PM
Register - Info Session #4 – Virtual: Wednesday, May 27th 6PM – 7PM
Register - Applications close at 11:59PM on June 1, 2026
- Applicants will be notified of their application status by July 9, 2026
- The markets will be open to the public from Wednesday, November 11, 2026, through Sunday, January 3, 2027