Biz Kid Marketplace @ Light Up the Season 2026

Description

The Biz Kid Marketplace gives local youth entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services at a community event. 

What is City of Hayward Light up the Season?

Hayward’s annual tree-lighting ceremony and winter holiday festival. Themed “Together We Shine,” the event will feature a performance stage with a diverse range of Hayward student performers and performing groups. There will be free meals provided by 5 Sikh Seva and other seasonal treats as well as multiple family-oriented activities and attractions. Activities and attractions will include a holiday art exhibit presented by the Hayward Arts Council, games and recreational opportunities offered by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD), family arts and crafts led by the Eden Area Interfaith Council and a visit by Santa Claus.

There will be a lighting of a seasonal tree and other decorations, an observance of the multiple traditions, often centering light, practiced by our diverse community, including Mawlid al-Nabi, Diwali, Twin Luminaries, Bodhi Day, Las Posadas, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Lohri and more.

Light Up the Season event returns—Friday, Dec. 4 | City of Hayward - Official website 

Who Can Apply?

To help ensure readiness for the event environment, youth must have previously participated in a Biz Kid event or another vendor marketplace.

We welcome:

• Makers and handmade product businesses
• Resellers
• Youth service providers

Due to Alameda County Department of Environmental Health regulations, food and beverage businesses are not permitted.

Booth Availability

• Limit of 10 businesses will be selected. All others will be placed on the waitlist. 

Cost to Participate

There is no cost to participate in the Biz Kid Marketplace. This program is made possible through the generous support of Amazon Web Services, ChangeX, and our community partners at the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District.

How to Apply

Please submit one application per business. Youth working together as a team should submit a single application.

What is Provided?

Each vendor will receive:

• One 10’ x 10’ canopy tent
• One 6-foot table
• Two chairs
• A plain solid-color tablecloth

Electricity

Electricity is not available for vendor booths. Businesses requiring electrical access cannot be accommodated.

What if another participant has a similar business idea?

In general, we allow market forces to play out naturally. However, if a similar business concept has already applied, later applicants may be notified so they can decide whether they would like to adjust their products or switch to another event date.