Missoula Current

One of the best things about summer in Missoula is the Out to Lunch and Downtown ToNight Summer Series that take place every Wednesday afternoon and Thursday evening in June, July and August in Caras Park.

The Missoula Downtown Association is gearing up for the 2017 summer season, and the deadline to apply for both food vending and entertainment for these beloved summer events that draw thousands of folks to the heart of Missoula is fast approaching.

Folks interested in vending or performing at Out to Lunch and/or Downtown ToNight can apply online.

Vendors are selected based upon food offerings, experience, power needs, professionalism and ability to enhance the event. Vendors pay an upfront fee and a percentage of their weekly sales. This year the MDA is offering a pilot project for “guest” vendors, where a select number of vendors are chosen as guests for a specific number of events.

Performers are selected based upon type of music, price-point, popularity in the Missoula marketplace, professionalism, sound and appeal to folks of all ages. Performances are typically three hours in length on the outdoor stage in Caras Park, and performers are paid for their talent.

The Missoula Downtown Association uses MDA member Submittable for its online application for entertainment, so folks can upload media files with their application materials. The vendor application is a PDF that must be printed, completed and submitted with payment, business license, proof of insurance, and application for a Temporary Food Service (TFS) permit, if necessary.

Bands and vendors are selected by each program’s organizing committee, comprised of volunteers from the MDA membership.

This year marks the 32nd year of Out to Lunch and the 17th year of Downtown ToNight. Both programs are admission-free and accessible to all, thanks to the generous businesses who sponsor each event.

Questions can be directed to the Downtown Missoula Partnership via phone (406-543-4238) or via email  at info@missouladowntown.com.

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