How to promote a makers' fair and attract visitors

A fair has two audiences: the makers filling the stands and the people coming to shop. Promotion works when both receive clear information and a reason to share.

Explain what visitors will find

Do not announce only a “makers' fair”. Say how many brands are taking part and what they sell: food, clothing, design, plants, pet products or gifts. Mention music, workshops, children's activities or giveaways.

List the fair for free with its date, full opening hours, city, address, admission and poster. If it runs for several days, give the start and end so it can appear on each relevant date.

Turn exhibitors into partners

Give them a simple kit: a vertical poster, story, short caption and the same event link. Ask each brand for a photograph and one sentence about what it will bring; this creates varied content without repeating the main poster.

Answer the questions that determine a visit

Is admission free?
Is there parking or nearby public transport?
Are pets welcome?
Are there activities for children?
Can visitors pay by card or bank transfer?
What happens if it rains?

Answering these early reduces messages and makes the decision easier.

Publish the programme

For demonstrations, workshops or music, give exact times. A scheduled activity gives people a reason to choose when to visit and spreads attendance through the day.

During the final week

Introduce several brands each day, share a map and repeat the opening hours. The day before, post a useful checklist: address, directions, activities and what to bring. On the day, say “today” and link to the complete listing.

Keep what worked

Ask exhibitors how their customers heard about the fair, measure clicks and attendance by time, and photograph the busy space. That evidence improves the next edition and helps sell stands.

Create your fair page and share one link among organizers and participating brands.