Japanese candy stall at markets and events

Event visitors, families, fans at anime and pop culture conventions, and gift shoppers.

Per-item sales and bundle deals, such as a fill-a-bag price. Your income depends on booth fees, event attendance and your best-selling products.

• Eye-catching display setup
• Selling face to face
• Handling cash and card payments
• Planning stock for each event

• Temporary food vendor or event permits from your county health department: check what applies to sealed packaged snacks
• Event rules on vendor insurance, as many ask for general liability coverage
• Labels on imported items and allergen information in English
• Weather, heat on chocolate and slow event days that make income uneven
• Sales tax registration and collection for in-person sales in your state

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your stall setup, display and opening stock. Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many events you attend and how busy they are.

Check temporary food vendor or event permits with your county health department, and what applies to sealed packaged snacks. Also check event rules on vendor insurance, English labels and allergen information on imports, and sales tax collection in your state.

The idea typically needs at least about 8 hours a week. Useful skills are eye-catching displays, selling face to face, handling cash and card payments and planning stock per event. Weather, heat on chocolate and slow days can make income uneven.