Cottage Food at Pop-Up Markets

Pop-Ups Are Direct Consumer Sales

Pop-up markets — temporary events where vendors sell directly to attendees — are permitted venues for cottage food sales in all 50 states. A pop-up is functionally identical to a farmers market from a cottage food law perspective: the seller is present, the buyer is present, money and product change hands face-to-face.

Types of Pop-Up Venues That Work

• Neighborhood pop-up markets organized on social media or neighborhood apps
• Church bazaars and community fundraisers
• School events and bake sales (check whether your school requires certain insurance or permits)
• Holiday and seasonal markets — Christmas markets, Thanksgiving markets
• Art walks and community festivals
• Backyard markets on your own property

What to Bring to a Pop-Up

• Fully labeled products — same label requirements as at any other venue
• A cash box and mobile payment reader (Square, Venmo, PayPal)
• A simple table, tablecloth, and product display
• Your state registration proof if your state requires it
• A bag or box for customer purchases