SAUGUS — The town’s Youth and Recreation Department is accepting applications for booths at this year’s Founder’s Day event.
Founder’s Day draws hundreds of residents to Saugus Center each fall and is set for Saturday, Sept. 9. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those interested in having a booth set up at the event have until Aug. 25 to submit an application.
An annual tradition in Saugus, Founder’s Day serves as one of the largest community events in town, highlighted by the naming of a man and woman of the year. Last year’s event featured a dunk tank, performers from MICA Dance Group, and a fire engine.
In a change from years past, the department is not accepting applications from toy/novelty vendors. Each booth will take up a 10-foot-by-10-foot space, and the department noted that it “highly recommends” a tent or canopy for each spot.
Any application involving a game of chance will need to be approved by the Town Clerk’s Office, while any booth with food products will need to be approved by the Health Department.
The department charges a fee for the booths, with a cost of $75 for Saugus residents, $100 for non-residents, $175 for businesses, and $500 for politicians, who are barred from passing out materials in other areas. Nonprofit organizations can get one table for free, but will face a cost for any subsequent spaces. Payment must be sent in with applications via a check or money order made payable to Saugus Founder’s Day, or applicants can pay online.
The application form notes that the event may be canceled at any time, but refunds will not be issued if the event is called off. Instead, those that purchased booths will get a credit for the following year’s event.
The form, available on the department’s website, asks applicants for their names, contact information, and what types of crafts/products they will feature at their booths.
Any questions about the event or the application process should be directed to [email protected] or to the Youth and Recreation Department at 781-231-4022.
