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Planning Guide Event A Guide to Help Run Enjoyable, Well Organized & Safe Festivals/Events

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Page 1: · PDF fileEvent Planning Guide Introduction The Event Planning Guide is designed to help organizations in planning, preparation, and running of events. It is hoped that the use

Planning GuideEvent

A Guide to Help Run Enjoyable, Well Organized

& Safe Festivals/Events

Page 2: · PDF fileEvent Planning Guide Introduction The Event Planning Guide is designed to help organizations in planning, preparation, and running of events. It is hoped that the use

Event Planning Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction

Event Planning Outline

Event Theme Development

Possible Festival/Event Committees

Site Evaluation, Parking and Security

Liability Insurance

Event/Festival Publicity

Southeast Tourism Top 20

NC Association of Festival and Events

Event/Festival Entertainment

Photo Opportunities

Samples

Sponsor Letter

Sponsor Opportunities

Craft Vendor Letter

Craft Vendor Application

Food Vendor Letter

Food Vendor Application

Parade Rules

Parade Application

Parade Participant Appreciation Certificate

Festival Evaluations

Event Planning Guide Checklist

Page 3: · PDF fileEvent Planning Guide Introduction The Event Planning Guide is designed to help organizations in planning, preparation, and running of events. It is hoped that the use

Event Planning Guide

Introduction

The Event Planning Guide is designed to help organizations in planning,

preparation, and running of events. It is hoped that the use of this guide will help you

through the process. Perhaps stress can be alleviated and the experience can be enjoyed

to the fullest.

The guide has been written to be user-friendly with a complete checklist and

examples of correspondence, applications, and publicity.

With the right approach you are sure to have a successful event and a great time

doing it!

Compiled by:

Kay Mitchell-Thomas

Heritage Tourism Development Officer

NC Division of Tourism Film, and Sports Development

P.O. Box 3

Murfreesboro, NC 27855

(252) 398-5922

[email protected]

Page 4: · PDF fileEvent Planning Guide Introduction The Event Planning Guide is designed to help organizations in planning, preparation, and running of events. It is hoped that the use

Event Planning Outline

A special event is an event focused on a specific purpose such as a festival, a

fundraiser, an awards banquet or other significant occasion in the life of a community.

These special events are different from "programs" offered on a continuing basis such

as a lecture series or a club meeting. The following steps are offered to help guide your

event planning:

1. Develop strategies for success o Make sure the purpose for the special event is important enough to merit

the time and expense needed to properly stage, publicize and evaluate the

event.

o Carefully match the type of event that is selected to the purpose that it

serves.

o Ensure that the community fully supports the special event. Select a

working committee with broad representation.

o Target groups that have a special stake in the event such as town officials,

politicians, business leaders, and citizens. Start planning at least six

months, and in many cases, a year ahead of time.

o Develop ways to evaluate the event's success. Measurable event objectives

may include attendance, the amount of money raised, and the number of

positive comments.

o Talk to other event planners who have successfully staged similar events.

2. Make a checklist

A checklist provides a step-by-step guide to organizing and executing a special

event. See sample checklist at the conclusion of this book.

3. Create a budget

The objective is to provide event planners with a financial blueprint. The budget

should be specific, and include revenue opportunities (sponsorship, ticket sales,

donations. concession sales) as well as expenses (printing, permits, insurance,

entertainment, food, supplies, security).

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4. Consider logistics

With many activities going on simultaneously, there are many details to be

checked. Major areas to consider and plan for include: size of space or building

used, utility support needed, setup (tables and chairs. tents, portable toilets, stages,

parking, signage) coordination, cleanup, emergency plans, transportation, and

public services such as police and fire departments.

A “Bad Weather” plan is also needed. Perhaps the plan is to continue as much as

possible or there may be a need for an alternate location. How will people be

notified of inclement weather changes? Will a rain date be determined and/or

advertised.

5. Plan publicity

Promoting a special event takes creative thinking balanced with practicality. The

primary objective is to publicize the event, but secondary objectives should be

considered.

o Are you trying to inform, educate or entertain?

o Increase awareness or attendance of the event?

o Build a base support from a specific audience?

o Facilitate good community relations?

Brainstorm all the available media including newspapers, billboards, radio

stations, and cable and commercial stations. Make a detailed list with

names of whom to contact and when.

6. Evaluate the event

Take time to evaluate right after the event while the details are fresh. You may

want to consider having a questionnaire for participants to fill out. Some general

evaluative criteria include:

o Did the event fulfill its goals and objectives? Why or why not?

o Identify what worked and what needs fine-tuning. Which vendors should

be used again?

o What items were missing on the checklist?

o Was the event well attended?

o Was informal and formal feedback about the event positive?

o Given all that went into staging, was it worth doing?

Finally, it is important to remember to celebrate your successes and to thank all

those who contributed. Have a committee party to celebrate your success!

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Event Theme Development

For an event/festival, which occurs on an annual basis, to remain successful, it is

essential to modify the emphasis each year. Many annual festivals/events select a

different theme and develop the theme with the main emphasis. Although there is a basic

underlining theme, it is important to have a marketing “gimmick” in order to tweak the

product.

A good example is the NC Watermelon Festival which is held annually in

Historic Murfreesboro. This festival began in 1986 as a four-hour event with 400 in

attendance and has grown to a four-day festival with over 40,000 participating. Festival

committee members credit much of their success to the selection of a new theme each

year.

Although this event celebrates agriculture and promotes watermelons, such

themes as tropical, patriotic, music, North Carolina, and international have been used. In

2007, the international theme was reflected with teenagers who wore international

costumes and carried the festival parade banner, a mariachi band, Spanish dancers, Irish

river dancers, t-shirt design and an international food court. This theme provided an

exciting vehicle for festival chairmen to utilize in all facets of their publicity. Reporters

are sure to ask annually, “What is new with the festival this year?” These festival

chairmen are always ready with an answer.

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Event Theme Development

Examples that one Pumpkin Festival used for themes over the years:

Pumpkin Patch Fairyland

Pumpkin Potpourri

Pumpkin Delight

Circus of Pumpkins

The Pumpkin Zoo

Pumpkin Kaleidoscope

Storybook Pumpkins

American Pumpkin Pride

Pumpkin Fiesta

Pumpkin Dreams

Boston Pumpkin Festival

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Possible Festival/Event Committees

Executive Committee- Officers: President, Vice-President, Secretary,

Treasurer, Town Officials

1. Craft/Collectibles Committee – Chairman

2. Food Committee – Chairman

3. Entertainment – Chairman

4. Parade – Chairman

5. Security – Police Chief, Chairman

6. Set-up/Clean-up/Parking – Chairman

7. Fireworks – Town Fire Department

8. Little Princess Contest – Chairman

10. Little Miss Farmer/Mr. Farmer Contests – Chairman

11. T-shirts – Chairman

12. 5-K Race – Chairman

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13. Stage Decorations – Chairman

14. Amusements Rides – Chairman

15. Commodity Contests – Chairman

16. Daily Schedule/Volunteers in Information Tent– Chairman

17. Publicity – Chairman

18. Friends of Festival – Endowment Fund– Chairman

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Site Evaluation, Parking, and Security

Once you feel comfortable that you have properly addressed your administrative

controls, you should focus on site evaluation. This is done by first taking a complete tour

of the entire event location. The event committee or the coordinator should make this

inspection tour. At this time, it would be a good idea to also include your insurer’s loss

control personnel to assist in this hazard identification tour.

During this site evaluation, evacuation plans should be established. All personnel

associated with the event should be trained in proper evacuation techniques. Evacuation

should address both outdoor and indoor situations, especially in locations with limited

access or restricted exits. When considering evacuation plans, always include

contingency plans for the orderly evacuation of attendees due to weather, fire or other

emergency situations.

In selecting a proper event location, make certain the site can properly

accommodate those attendees with disabilities. Is the site wheelchair-accessible? Is

parking adequate for persons with disabilities? Are water fountains and rest rooms

accessible? Indoor facilities should be inspected for code compliance, emergency

lighting, alarms, sprinkler systems and adequate fire extinguishers. Be certain all exit

doors are operable and unobstructed. Check all electrical circuits to see if they have

ground fault protection and that all extension cords are equipped with grounding plugs.

A key concern of any special event is the potential for severe injury resulting from

attendee slips, trips and falls — the No. 1 area of special events claims. To prevent such

hazards and dramatically reduce the expensive claims associated with them, make certain

your facilities are thoroughly inspected. Be conscious of uneven ground, electrical cords,

ropes and stakes used to support tents. Include in your inspection all fall hazards, high-

voltage electrical equipment, and areas of vehicle movement. Once identified, correction

should take place immediately.

To eliminate “failure to warn” accusations, make certain adequate warning signs

are posted, temporary fencing or barriers are erected where needed, and sample parking

is available.

For large events, consider remote parking or the utilization of a shuttle service.

Your parking area needs to be well maintained with adequate lighting for night events. In

addition, safe walking lanes, sidewalks and crosswalks should be evaluated for pedestrian

traffic. It is important that the individuals selected for traffic control are well trained to

assure a smooth flow of traffic.

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Site Evaluation, Parking, and Security

Another very important consideration of special events is crowd management. A

first step in this endeavor is estimating the number of attendees in order to develop a

sound monitoring and control plan. It is very important that you understand the

characteristics of your expected audience; you need to evaluate different crowd

management controls for different types of events.

An arts and crafts event will most certainly differ from a rock concert. Seating

should take into consideration proper spacing, seating capacity and number of attendees.

This all translates into a specific number of exits and compliance with local fire codes.

Again, the importance of well-placed signs cannot be over-emphasized. Well-located and

visible signs can be a tremendous aid in controlling crowds and avoiding confusion.

Signs clearly indicating entrances, events, security, vehicle direction, restricted areas,

first aid and rest rooms should be put in place. In addition, a sufficient number of rest

rooms should be available, and trash receptacles should be strategically placed

throughout the event area and emptied often.

The next component of event planning is security. A comprehensive security plan

is a must if you intend to properly control your event, protect attendees, and provide a fun

and secure environment. A good security plan will assure the right number of law

enforcement and security personnel. It will address training, logistics and scheduling.

Maps of the event area and surrounding areas should be developed. Your security plan

should involve everyone associated with the event. The security plan should address the

possible adverse behavior of individuals or groups. Large events should consider a

command post that coordinates all event activities. This post should be open before the

public enters the event area and should operate until after the event is completed.

At all functions where large amount of attendees are expected, it is important to

incorporate a good medical service plan that will address injuries and illnesses. This

plan would include an adequate number of first aid stations, staffed by qualified

attendants. Procedures should be developed for immediate notification of medical

personnel or emergency incidents, and the transportation of the injured or ill.

These emergency procedures should be coordinated with both police and fire

personnel. Resources for the treatment of multiple injuries should be available. To assure

immediate response by emergency vehicles, on-site evacuation routes should be

developed.

It is extremely important that a full report of all injuries and illnesses be completed

and forwarded to your entity’s risk manager or insurer. A designated spokesperson

should be appointed to deal with the media relative to any event incident. The success of

your special event will ultimately depend on good pre-event planning.

--- Excerpts from Planning Your Event Can Prevent Trouble Down the Road by Steve McGinn

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Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a part of the general insurance system of risk transference.

Originally, individuals or companies that faced a common peril, formed a group and

created a self-help fund out of which to pay compensation should any member incur loss.

The modern system relies on dedicated carriers to offer protection against specified perils

in consideration of a premium. Liability insurance is designed to offer specific protection

against third party claims, i.e., payment is not typically made to the insured, but rather to

someone suffering loss who is not a party to the insurance contract. In general, damage

caused intentionally and contractual liability is not covered under liability insurance

policies. When a claim is made, the insurance carrier has the right to defend the insured.

The legal costs of a defense are not affected by any policy limits, which is useful because

they can be significant where long trials are held to determine either fault or the amount

of damages.

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Event/Festival Publicity

The key to an event’s success is excellent publicity. One of the biggest mistakes

event organizers make is forgetting about publicity until after almost all the planning is

complete.

Here are some questions to ask yourself during the early days of your planning:

1. How should I publicize the event?

Website – Every annual event should have a website which gives essential

details. This is an excellent source for putting vendor applications online,

photographs for media, and updates. The North Carolina Division of Tourism’s

website: www.visitnc.com lists happenings in the State. Each county has a

tourism contact who has availability to the site. Contacts are listed at the NC

Department of Commerce site under tourism: www.nccommerce.com.

NC Welcome Centers – The NC Welcome Centers located on the State’s major

corridors, provide information for tourists concerning events, historic sites,

lodging, food, entertainment, etc. This is an excellent location to distribute

information on upcoming events. Contact the NC Division of Tourism at

919-733-4171 for more information.

Newspapers – Local and regional papers will usually publish feature articles on

events – especially if they are well written and have photographs attached. It is

important to email articles and photographs as attachments so that they will not

have to be retyped.

Radio Stations – Many local radio stations have early morning talk shows which

will welcome your event chairman as a guest. What a great way to promote at no

cost. Stations will often trade sponsorships for advertising spots. It is important

to establish a good relationship with station officials.

Television Stations – Most television stations have community calendar spots on

air and on their websites. Locate the station’s website and complete the

community calendar information form. There is no cost to this publicity. If there

are sufficient funds, developing a commercial and airing it on a cable stations is

an excellent publicity vehicle.

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Posters – Posters are a most for most events/festivals. Many festivals design an

annual logo to reflect their theme and use it on their posters and t-shirts. Posters

come in all shapes and sizes and should be placed in high volume traffic

locations.

T-Shirts – Custom designed event t-shirts serve as walking billboards for

events/festivals. Many patrons collect both t-shirts and posters. It is important to

have a professional product and keep in mind that it should appeal to all ages and

sexes.

Billboards/banners – Unless the event has a huge budget, professional billboards

are usually unobtainable. Many small events/festivals have small billboards or

signs at various town entrances that promote the event. In years past, banners

were often hung in the middle of towns.

Southeast Tourism Top 20 Events - Festivals or events that have at least 1,000

in attendance and are in their 3rd

year of existence, compete for the title of Top 20

event during the month it is held. If awarded, the event will receive excellent

publicity. See www.ncfestivals.com for further details.

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Event/Festival Entertainment

In order for an event to be memorable, it requires special entertainment. Usually

the entertainment matches the theme. Festivals are known for providing continuous

entertainment, which cover the entire kaleidoscope.

Event entertainment may include:

Amusement Rides

Pony Rides

Vocalists

Dancers

Parades

Crafts Fair

Food Fair

Karate Demonstrations

Fireworks

Live Bands

Street Dances

Magicians

NASCAR simulators

Celebrity Guests

Parades of all sizes

Contests

Art Shows

This list could continue on and on. The North Carolina Association of Festivals and

Events’ website provides an extensive roster of vendors. This is a site to gain

entertainment ideas and a network of support. Annual memberships are reasonable.

www.ncfestivals.com.

Irish dancers entertain at event.

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Entertainment Provides

Great Photo Opportunities!

Amusement Rides

Food Fairs

Crafts

Local Dancers

Fireworks

Fun For Everyone!

Fun Amusement Rides bring

excitement to events.

Food Theme Events are enjoyed in

North Carolina — such as the BBQ Festival in Lexington.

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Event/Festival Entertainment

Petting Zoos have been popular

attractions for NC festivals for many years.

Clogging is the traditional dance in NC.

Beautiful queens make parades special

events as seen in above in Murfreesboro.

Fireworks — the grandest finale to any event!

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Sample Sponsor Letter

Date_____________

Dear Sir:

The _______________________________, which began in 19___, is celebrating

its ___ anniversary this year. Although it started out small, this festival has grown to the

point of being named by the Southeast Tourism Society (US) as one of the Top 20 events

for the month of _________. A _________________ theme will be reflected in this

year’s festival with expanded entertainment and an “international” food court.

In order to assure that this popular festival maintains its high caliber of offerings,

we are asking you, the business leaders of this region, to assist financially. In exchange,

you will be listed on the sponsor board at the festival, included in festival publications,

and listed on the festival’s website.

As you know, this festival was designed as a catalyst for civil clubs and nonprofit

organizations to generate funds for community activities. Due to rising costs, it is

extremely important to the health of the festival to request your continued support. The

committee is proud that an admissions fee has never been charged and wishes to continue

this practice.

If you have questions, please call (______________). Please make plans to attend

this year’s event – and join in the fun!

Sincerely yours,

Attachment

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Sponsorship Opportunities

Parade $

Fireworks $

Main Stage Rental $

Rental of Upscale PA system $

Street Dance Bands

The Embers Band $

Spare Change $

Sammy O’Banion Mardi Gras $

Coastline $

Nightly (5—8:00 p.m.) Bands (4) $

Little Princess Contest $

Little Mr./Miss Farmer Contests $

Clogging Units (3) $

General Donation $

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Sample Craft Vendor Letter

Date _____________________

Dear Participants:

The ________________________Festival will be held in __________________.

The dates for craft/antique vendors are _________________.

The festival will be held on ________________________ (location). The

craft/antique show will begin on ___________________(date & time). You are

responsible for providing all of your own set-ups such as tables, chairs, etc. All spaces

will be 15’ x 15’. If your equipment, merchandise, or canopy will not fit in this space,

you will need to reserve an additional space. Electricity will not be provided to

craft/antique vendors.

Fees: Craft/Antique Vendors ?00.00

Those with push carts must stay in their assigned space; they may not roam.

Vehicles CANNOT be part of the booth display. Throughout the festival there will be

entertainment on the grounds. Each night there will be street dancing with professional

bands.

The festival will provide security for vendors during the night (s) of

_____________date and times. Please make arrangements accordingly. Application

with vendor fee, a self addressed stamped legal sized envelope and one photo of booth

set-up must be postmarked by (date). Any applications after that date will require a

$25.00 late fee in addition to the vendor fee. The Festival Committee reserves the right

to reject an application and return all fees. You will be notified of your application

acceptance by (Date). The Festival Committee also reserves the right to accept a limited

number of vendors with similar products.

We look forward to receiving your applications. Thank you!

Sincerely yours,

Chairman

Enclosure - application

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Sample Craft Vendor Application

Crafts/Antiques Fair

(Date)

Craft/Antique Vendor Application

Name: _______________________________________ Phone Number: _____________

Address: ________________________________________________________________

Number of Spaces: _______ (Spaces are 15’ x 15”)

Amount enclosed: $ __________________ (Spaces are $?0.00 each)

Total enclosed: $ _________________

Type and size of set-up: (example: trailer, tent, etc.)

Type of craft(s) and or antiques:

________________________________________________________________________

Photograph(s) requested for assignment and publicity use.

I have read the above and understand the requirements and agree to abide by them if

accepted. The ____________________ Festival will not be responsible for any damages

or losses suffered by participants in this event.

__________________________________ ____________________________________

Vendor’s signature Date

Please make checks payable to: Festival

Address

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Sample Food Vendor Letter

Dear Potential Food Vendor:

The ____ annual ______ Festival will be held in (town), (dates). The committee

is once again extending the opportunity to food vendors to offer food all four days of the

festival. The Committee is expanding the food fair due to increased attendance.

Throughout the festival there will be entertainment on the grounds with street dancing

every night.

The festival will be held on the lawn of ______________ in (name of park, street,

etc). Approved vendors may begin selling food on (date), (time). The same schedule

applies the following three days. Vendors may serve food until the conclusion of the

events each evening.

FEES: Food Vendor $ ____________ All four days

$____________ Two days

Civic Organization $____________ All four days

$____________ Two days

Food vendors may serve food 2 days or 4 days. Vendors who wish to serve food

for only two days may meet the requirements of G.S. 130-A-250 (7) Exemptions

(enclosed) or be permitted as a Temporary Food Stand. All food vendors serving food

for 4 days must be eligible for a Temporary Food Stand Permit (enclosed). Permitted

Mobile Food Unites will not have to meet any of the above requirements.

Specific details of the food service area must be submitted along with the application.

Pictures of past events would be helpful. The ________________ Committee must know

exactly how your booth will be set up. For example, you must tell us how you plan to

cover your area, cover the ground, heat water for dishwashing, implement hand washing,

and how you plan to protect the food you are serving for the elements and people. Also

tell us how you plan to keep cold foods cold (45 degrees F) and hot foods hot (140

degrees F).

Attached is a copy of Rule .2635 Requirements of Temporary Food Establishments

and G.S. 130-A (7) Exemptions. Any food vendor not complying with the above

requirements will not receive a permit to operate and will be asked to leave the festival if

arrangements cannot be made to comply.

You are responsible for providing all of your set-ups such as tables, chairs, etc. All

spaces will be 15’ x 20’. If your equipment, product, or canopy will not fit in this space,

you will need to reserve an additional space. Electricity will be provided only to good

vendors at an additional cost of $45.00. Food vendors need to use heavy duty outdoor

extension cords, at least 12-2 with ground wife. There will be a fire and sanitation

inspection prior to the sale of food for any unsafe conditions. We only provide 20A

service. Ice will be available for purchase all four days. Those with push carts must stay

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Sample Food Vendor Letter

in their assigned space; they will not be allowed to roam. Water will be available, but

there will be no permanent water hook-ups for vendors.

The festival will provide security for vendors at the conclusion of the festival each

evening (date(s) until 7:00 a.m. Please make arrangements accordingly. Application

with vendor fee, a stamped self-addressed legal sized envelope and one photo of the

booth set-up must be postmarked by ________________ (date). Any application

after that date will require a $25.00 late fee in addition to the vendor fee. If your

application is not accepted you will receive your money back. You will be notified of

your application acceptance by (date). The Festival Committee reserves the right to

accept a limited number of food vendors with similar products and to reject any

application and return all fees. The amusement ride company has exclusive rights on all

cotton candy, candy and caramel apples, popcorn, caramel corn, snow-cones, funnel

cakes and polish sausage. (This will vary with various amusement companies and

contracts).

For safety reasons, you will not be allowed to take down and leave your space

before the festival is over. The large amount of foot traffic through the food area makes

it too hazardous for vehicles to be allowed in. We appreciate your cooperation in this

matter.

We look forward to receiving your applications. Thank you!

Sincerely yours,

______________

Food Chairperson

Enclosures

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Sample Food Vendor Application

Application Deadline: May 7, 2007

___________________________Festival August, 2007

Food Vendor Application

NAME: ______________________________________________ TEL. NO. ___________________

ADDRESS: __________________________________________ First-time vendor: ___________

__________________________________________ Returning vendor: __________

Proof of Non-profit status: _____________________(Federal Tax ID#, Church or Political Affiliation)

What days will you participate: All Four Days ___________ Fri. & Sat. __________

Number of Spaces: ____________ (Spaces are 15’ x 20’)

Amount enclosed: $__________ $???.00 All Four Days (Aug. 4 – 7, 2004)

$__________ $???.00 Two Days (August 6 – 7, 2004)

Electricity $ __________ ($??.00)

Late Fee $ __________ ($??.00) Late fee applies only if application is postmarked later than May 7, 2004

Total Enclosed $ __________

Type and size of set-up: (example: trailer, tent, etc.) Please note if you have a RV.

**In order to prevent duplication and to have a diversified food selection, all potential vendors must include menus and

assign preference as to their first, second and third choices. Vendors may sell only those items approved by the festival

committee. Please list your menu items on separate paper if necessary and remember to rank by choice. Please keep in

mind we have a limited number of spaces available for the festival.**

Type of Food(s): _______________________________________________________________________

Permitted or mobile food units, please include a copy of your Mobile Food Permit or copy of most recent Sanitation

Inspection.

I have read the above and understand the rules and requirements and agree to abide by them if accepted.

The_______________ (festival) will not be responsible for any damages or losses suffered by participants in this event.

Vendor’s Signature: ________________________________ Date: _____________________________

Please make checks payable to: Festival

(Address)

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Sample Parade Rules

Parade Rules

1. Any unit whose sole purpose, as determined by the parade committee, is for

advertising only, will not be accepted unless it has been designated a Parade

Sponsor, having met the minimum established financial donation to the

Americana festival. A banner may be affixed to the unit showing its

sponsorship status.

2. Once you have reached your staging point, remain in that position until

otherwise directed by a parade official.

3. Participants must provide current and accurate publicity information

concerning their unit for the parade narrator at least 15 days prior to the

event. Information received after that may not be included in the parade script.

4. Participants must provide their own signage. Signs must be in good taste, or

they will be removed. All vehicle lettering should not exceed 4 inches high.

Banner lettering should not exceed 10 inches.

5. Participants riding in vehicles or trailers must provide their own vehicles

and drivers.

6. Support vehicles for marching units will not be allowed in the parade.

7. Because of the potential danger to spectators, throwing objects, candy, etc.

along the parade route is prohibited. For safety, children under the age of 12

are prohibited from passing out items to spectators.

8. Displaying, attaching, or carrying advertising materials along the parade

route is prohibited. Political candidate signs are prohibited; though voter

information may be hand passed out by walkers along the parade route.

9. Proper unit spacing and parade pace is critical. Voluntary stopping for drill

formation, reverse marching by bands or drill teams cannot exceed 45 seconds.

10. Parade participants are expected to conduct themselves in a courteous

manner.

11. ____________Festival Inc. reserves the right to dismiss any parade

participant from the parade for rules violations.

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12. The ________ festival, Inc reserves the right to deny any individual or

group permission to participate in its parade that it determines would not

contribute to the entertainment value of the parade or would otherwise, in its

opinion, be offensive to the general public viewing the parade.

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Parade Application Sample

_______________________FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

PARADE APPLICATION

DATE

Parade Theme – “

Organization Name___________________________________________________________

Representative ___________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________

Town _____________________________ State _______ Zip ______________

Phone (home) ________________________ (work) ______________________

Fax __________________________ E-Mail___________________________

Select One Category ONLY ----- Do You Want To Be Judged? YES -/- NO

Type: Organizations __________________________________________________________

Commercial ___________________________________________________________

Non-Commercial ___________________________________________________________

Neighborhood/Family __________________________________________________________

Unit Information

Number of People in Unit __________Any Animals (type) ____________________________

Length & Width of Unit_________________________________________________________

Mode of Travel (walk, vehicle etc) ________________________________________________

Number of Vehicles in Unit ______________________________________________________

Does your unit emit music (see rules) ______________________________________________

Participated in this parade previously? _________, Which years? _______________________

DESCRIPTION OF UNIT: (This information will be used by the Announcer’s Booth during the

parade)

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

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SPECIAL NEEDS or COMMENTS: ______________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

Completed APPLICATIONS must be submitted A.S.A.P. or by Date.

Motorized vehicles MUST submit proof of insurance showing limits of coverage.

ENTRY FEE: $00.00 with ONE vehicle. ADDITIONAL Units = $ each

Please make checks payable to the FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

Mail to: Festival Parade Committee

Address

For more information call _________________after 5 PM.

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Sample Event Evaluation

We need your help! In order to continue a successful festival, we invite your valued comments and

suggestions. Please print this page by hi-lighting the form and print the selection then mail it to us at

Othello Sandhill Crane Festival, PO Box 542 , Othello, WA 99344 OR email it to us at marie-

[email protected].

Name: __________________________________________________________________

Email:________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

City: ________________________________ State : _______________ Zip: _________________

1. Is this your first Othello Sandhill Crane Festival? ____ If no, how many have you attended?

_______

2. How did you first learn of the Festival?

brochure radio poster magazine newspaper website word-of-mouth other

(describe)

3. How would you rate/grade the bus tour(s) and/or field trip(s)? (please circle one)

excellent good average poor n/a

4. How would you rate/grade the children’s activities and petting zoo overall? (please circle one)

excellent good average poor n/a

5. How would you rate/grade the lectures overall? (please circle one)

excellent good average poor n/a

6. Did you attend the banquet on Saturday night? __________ How would you rate/grade it?

excellent good average poor n/a

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7. How many nights did you stay in the local area? __________ Where did you stay? (please circle

one)

motel friends campsite/trailer park Please name:____________________________

8. How would you rate/grade the Festival overall? (please circle one.)

excellent good average poor n/a

9. Please share any other comments/suggestions (use back of sheet if necessary).

Thank you!

Hope to see you at next year’s Eleventh Annual Festival!

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Sample – Festival Evaluation

1. How did you hear about the Smoky Hill River Festival?

Newspaper

Radio

Television

Internet

Word-of-Mouth

Poster

Other

2. What are your reasons for attending the Festival? Please rate your top three reasons. "1" being top priority, "2" second priority, "3" your third.

I enjoy the food 1 2 3

I enjoy the entertainment 1 2 3

I enjoy the shopping 1 2 3

I enjoy the chance to spend a weekend out with my family or friends

1 2 3

I love that it is an annual event for our community

1 2 3

The price is affordable 1 2 3

The ease of parking 1 2 3

The ease of walking around the Festival site 1 2 3

Other 1 2 3

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3. How many days do you generally attend the Festival? Please check all that apply:

Thursday only

Friday only

Saturday only

Sunday only

At least two days

Every day of the Festival!

4. Any other comments?

5. If you would like us to be able to contact you please provide:

E-Mail address

6. Please enter the following characters into field below.* (required field)

Thank you for your input! Submit Form

Clear Form

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Event Planning Guide Check List (Items in bold, complete first)

Items Status Date of Confirmation

_____ Theme

_____ T-Shirt Logo

_____ Amusement Rides

_____ Information Tent

_____ Tent to go over stage (rent)

_____ Stage for main band (rent)

_____ Rent Tables and Chairs

_____ Portajohns, handicapped

_____ Handwash stations

_____ Leases for rental of private property

_____ Leases signed from property owners

_____ Liability insurance

_____ ASCAP

_____ Electricity, letter to power company

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Event Planning Guide Checklist

Items Status Date of Confirmation

_____ Order Ice for food vendors

_____ Fireworks—contact company

_____ Publicity—press releases

_____ Write articles for tabloids

_____ Book Bands/entertainment

(see attached schedule)

_____ Paint Donation Drum

_____ Paint Signs at Town Entrances

_____ Craft Vendors application

_____ Food Vendors application

_____ T-shirts (design, order)

_____ Sponsor List—donation letters

_____ Radio Stations—publicity

_____ TV Stations—publicity

_____ Posters—design, printer

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Event Planning Guide Checklist

Items Status Date of Confirmation

_____ Friends of the Festival

Letter

Button

_____ Watermelon Parties for C.S.

_____ Parking Permits

_____ Lock and Key for Ice Truck

_____ Money Box/Change

_____ Schedule for Workers

_____ Parade Lineup

_____ Parade Certificates

_____ Posters for Parade Dignitaries

_____ Contact High School Bands

_____ Letters to Dignitaries

_____ Contests—watermelon

_____ Meal Tickets for Guests

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Event Planning Guide Checklist

Items Status Date of Confirmation

_____ Reserve Rooms for

Vendors

_____ Walkie-Talkies

_____ PA System

_____ Opening Ceremony

_____ Stage Decorations

_____ Parade Banner

_____ Information Tent Sign

_____ Security

_____ Flags/Banners

_____ Golf Carts

_____ Website Update

_____ Rescue Squad

_____ Committees/Assignments