Farmers Market Operations and Management Services

The City of Palm Desert is seeking qualified operators to develop, manage, and run a recurring Farmers Market designed to enrich community life, promote local agriculture, and increase access to fresh, healthy food for its diverse population of 50,000 year-round and 32,000 seasonal residents. Positioned as a key economic and cultural hub in the Coachella Valley, the City aims to create a vibrant, attractive gathering space that reflects its commitment to sustainability, local business support, and public well-being. The selected operator will be responsible for all aspects of market planning, vendor recruitment, logistics, compliance, marketing, and day-to-day operations, ensuring a safe, engaging, and well-managed experience aligned with the City’s goals. Proposals must be submitted by August 1, 2026, in response to solicitation number 2026-RFP-048, posted on July 9, 2026. The City, governed by a council-manager system with a five-member council, anticipates the market will be hosted at a location within its boundaries, though the exact site is not specified. Primary contact for inquiries is Shelby Goodwin, Special Events Coordinator, with Celina Cabrera, Senior Management Analyst, available for secondary support. All aspects of the market must comply with municipal regulations and reflect the City’s values of cleanliness, safety, and community engagement, with the long-term objective of fostering a sustainable, recurring event that enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.