What you need for an art market

An art market needs more than tables for artists to display their work. You will need a clear way to number and identify stalls, reliable lighting and power, payment equipment, and a separate setup for refreshments and visitor information. Plan quantities from the number of artists, stalls and expected visitors rather than buying by guesswork. Check power access and permits before shopping, because extension cables and lighting are often arranged too late.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Party tentsqty 6
Foldable tablesqty 20
Folding chairsqty 40
Tableclothsqty 20
High tablesqty 4

Decorations

Welcome bannersqty 2
Stand number signsqty 20
Prize card holdersqty 100
Name badgesqty 30
Table décorqty 12

Lighting

String lightsqty 8
LED lampsqty 12

Equipment

Extension cordsqty 4
Power stripsqty 8
Payment terminal
Cash register
Cash box
Walkie-talkiesqty 4

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 150
Platesqty 100
Cutlery setsqty 100
Coffee cupsqty 80

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 4
Coolersqty 4
Serving traysqty 8
Cutting boardsqty 4
Bread knivesqty 4
Serving tongsqty 6

Organization

Clipboardsqty 4
Ballpoint pensqty 20
Painter's tapeqty 6
Scissorsqty 4
Cable tiesqty 100
Cable matsqty 12

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 8
Recycling binsqty 4
Broom setsqty 3
Mop setsqty 2
Cleaning glovesqty 6

Safety

First aid kits
Fire extinguishersqty 2

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 3 packs
- Tea bags - 100 pieces
- Sugar - 2 kilos
- Milk - 10 liter
- Oat milk - 4 liters
- Still water - 8 bottles
- Carbonated water - 6 bottles
- Cola - 6 bottles
- Cola Zero - 6 bottles
- Sinas - 6 bottles
- Apple juice - 6 packs
- Lemons - 12 pieces
- White bread rolls - 60 pieces
- Wholegrain rolls - 60 pieces
- Unsalted butter - 2 kilos
- Young cheese - 4 kilos
- Back ham - 3 kilos
- Hummus - 2 kilos
- Iceberg lettuce - 6 heads
- Tomatoes - 5 kilos
- Cucumbers - 8 pieces
- Mayonnaise - 2 bottles
- Mustard - 2 bottles
- Paprika chips - 8 bags
- Plain chips - 8 bags
- Snacks - 6 bags
- Cookies - 8 packs
- Apples - 6 kilos
- Grapes - 4 kilos
- Napkins - 500 pieces
- Stir sticks - 200 pieces
- Paper straws - 200 pieces
- Trash bags - 40 pieces
- Recycling bags - 20 pieces
- Paper towels - 8 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Hand soap - 4 bottles
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Disinfectant wipes - 4 packs
- Sponges - 10 pieces
- Rubber gloves - 2 boxes

Tips

Plan one numbered stand sign, table covering and name badge set for each participating artist or stall. Order or prepare these at least one week before the market so registration changes can still be added.
Allow one payment setup for each busy sales point, plus a cash box and enough change if cash is accepted. Test the payment terminal and bring power strips and extension cords before the setup day.
For a four-hour market, provide roughly two reusable cups per visitor who is likely to use catering, then add a 10% buffer. Count plates, cutlery and coffee cups separately rather than assuming one item works for every serving.
Bring one clipboard and several ballpoint pens for the information desk, registration updates and last-minute notes. Keep spare pens at the desk; they are commonly missing when artists arrive.
Check the venue’s outlets and cable routes before buying lighting. Use LED lamps or string lights where possible, secure every extension cord away from walking routes, and arrange party tents early if the market is outdoors.

Frequently asked questions

What should I buy for an art market?: Start with display and visitor basics: foldable tables, chairs, tablecloths, stand number signs, name badges, lighting, extension cords and payment equipment. Add catering items such as reusable cups, plates, cutlery, coffee cups, thermos flasks and serving tools if refreshments are provided.
How many tables do I need for an art market?: Plan at least one table setup per artist or stall, based on the agreed stand layout. Add one separate table for the information desk and another for catering if those areas are part of the event.
How much lighting and power equipment is needed for an art market?: Count the outlets and lighting points during a venue check at least one week before the market. Bring enough extension cords and power strips to reach every lighting or payment point, plus one spare connection if the venue allows it.
When should I prepare the art market shopping list?: Make the first list at least two weeks before the market, once the participant list and stand layout are stable. Recheck quantities three to five days before opening, especially badges, signs, payment equipment, cups and power cables.

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