VENDOR RESOURCES
Beacon Farmers’ Market
Weather & Gear Guide
Outdoor markets bring the community together, with fresh air, high visibility, and a lively town-square atmosphere, where vendors and shoppers connect naturally.
Note to Vendors
Hey vendors! This page is for you. It’s packed with tips, tricks, and gear suggestions to keep you comfy, safe, and ready for winter chills and summer heat. Drawn from real BFM market experience, you’ll find quick-scan lists, pro tips, and ideas from fellow vendors.
Note to Shoppers
Our market operates outdoors year-round — featuring fresh air, seasonal abundance, and a lively atmosphere. This page gives you a peek at how vendors prep, plus a few tips to shop comfortably in any weather. Dress in layers, sip something warm or cool, and enjoy the sights, smells, and energy of the BFM!
Top 3 Winter Essentials
Heated Clothing
Battery-powered vests, socks & scarves
Thermal Layers
Base layers beat one heavy sweater
Hot Hands
Small but mighty lifesavers
Winter Market Tips (with links)
Layer it up: base + insulation + wind barrier beats one heavy sweater - shop local
Thermal underwear & base layers: cheap or premium, both work wonders, bonus if it’s wool or cashmere
Insulated bib overalls are a winter market staple — warm, wind-blocking & easy to layer without limiting movement
Battery-powered, heated vests, socks, or gloves keep hands, feet, and core cozy
Fingerless gloves from a BFM vendor, for dexterity when handling cash & products
Boiled wool mittens offer excellent warmth — the wool is felted to create a dense, cozy layer
Hand & foot warmers by HotHands — especially body warmers & full-length insoles — make a noticeable difference
Camping/propane heaters like Little Buddy/Mr Heater are popular - bring two propane tanks for 4-hour market
Stand on a mat, cardboard, or rug to block cold from the pavement
Hand lotion, body & face oil, face cream, body butter & salves to prevent skin cracks & splits
Thermos with a hot drink: coffee, tea, or broth for energy
Good vibes & smiles: they’re free and the best warmers around!
Pro tip: Ask nearby vendors for their winter hacks — experience shared is wisdom doubled
Top 3 Summer Essentials
Misting Fan
Instant relief: A vendor and kid favorite
Cold Drinks
Hydration is non-negotiable
Shade & Airflow
Tents & sidewalls
Summer Market Tips (with links)
Cool misting fan: circulates air and keeps booth cool & comfortable
Cooling towels, neck wraps & bandana: easy, affordable & effective
Stay hydrated: water & electrolyte drinks are key
Sunscreen (broad-spectrum SPF 30+) — Protect exposed skin with mineral sunscreen
Lightweight, breathable clothing: natural fibers help airflow
Comfortable shoes + mat: prevent fatigue from standing long hours in the sun
Adjust tent walls for airflow: a little breeze goes a long way
Tip: Take breaks, sip often, eat snacks and check in on fellow vendors. Heat sneaks up fast!
Gear — For Market Dogs
Cold mornings and hot afternoons don’t mean your pup has to miss out — it just means a bit of extra prep
Winter Market Tips
Small & Single-Coated Dogs: These pups lose heat fast. Think cozy sweaters & keep walks short & sweet.
Boots: Great for ultimate protection (if your dog will tolerate them) from harsh salt & ice.
Paw-protecting balms: Perfect alternative for boot-haters.
Summer Market Tips
Paw Protection: Use summer booties or a paw protecting balm to prevent pavement burns.
Tent Weights & Safety (All Seasons)
All tents must be weighted
Minimum: 25 pounds per leg
Windy days: 40–50 pounds per leg (160–200 lbs total)
Local Recommendation: BURRO weights — Hudson Valley company tested at BFM.
Vendors should use the code BEACON20 to get 20% off.
Tent Weight Data is HERE.
Stay warm, stay cool, stay safe — and thanks for showing up for this community, every season!
Hudson Valley Farmers’ Market Academy
The Hudson Valley Farmers’ Market Academy is a professional development series designed to help farmers’ market vendors grow and succeed. This initiative is created and supported by Common Ground Farm, the Beacon Farmers’ Market, and the Newburgh Farmers’ Market, with the goal of strengthening our local food community while supporting small businesses.
The academy includes a series of workshops on essential topics like branding, marketing, sales strategies, customer engagement, both design, business development/growth, and more—providing valuable insights from both industry professionals and experienced market vendors. Whether you're a current vendor looking to refine your skills or a potential vendor interested in getting started, this series offers valuable insights to help you succeed. Find out more HERE.
