Makers Manual

Thank you for wanting to be part of the Yuba-Sutter Maker Faire. This page is covers many of the common questions about exhibiting at the event, and helps us stay organized as we coordinate with all the makers.

These details should not change, however we recommend checking this page in the days leading up to the event for any small changes. We will always be sure to highlight any changes that are made as best we can.

If you do not see your question answered here, please reach out to us at wegeeks@wideawakegeek.com. Please include your exhibit and team name in the email to help us locate your exhibit.

Exhibit Spaces

• Our standard exhibit space is approximately at 10’x10’ space. In some locations, the building structure against walls may protrude into the space. We are doing our best to minimize these occurrences.
• By default we provide one 6’ or 8′ table and one folding chair per exhibit. You are welcome to bring your own tables / chairs so you have the exact configuration you need. If you require multiple tables / more chairs for a hands-on exhibit, etc., please email us (with your exhibit name) at wegeeks@wideawakegeek.com.
• If your exhibit requires power we strongly recommend bringing a 25’ extension cord and a power strip to ensure you have what you need where you need it. Currently we are unsure if we will have internet service provided. We recommend bringing a cellular device / hotspot as a backup if you require internet access for your exhibit.
• Your location will be assigned to you in the days leading up to the event. The preference you selected on your application will be strongly considered. If we are unable to provide you with your preference, we will reach out and discussion options with you directly.
• If you would like to coordinate an “event” outside your space at some point throughout the day, please contact us to discuss the details.

Load-in & Load-out

Load-in Day:

Doors open 5/4/24 at 7:30AM for Makers to come in and setup. Load in directions will be provided closer to event day. If you are going to need assistance with anything, please let us know and we will attempt to coordinate volunteers to help you. Doors open to the general public 10AM.

Check in and Event Badges:

Before you start working on your space, you must check in at the Maker Check In table. You will be provided 3 maker badges to staff your booth. If you plan to have more than 3 people helping setup your exhibit, please let us know in the Call to Maker form.

Load-out:

Load-out must occur AFTER the end of the event at 4PM. Packing or leaving early without prior discussion and agreement may lead to your exhibit not being approved in subsequent years.  Vehicles may not be pulled to the doors during event hours. See door coordinator to schedule access. A short period of time will be provided after the event.

Parking

Parking Map will be provided closer to event day. There is no fee for parking.

General Tips

• Label your stuff! A roll of masking tape and a sharpie are very useful!
• Bring more extension cords and power strips than you think you need. We will not have extras.
• Tables will be bare, you might want a table cloth and/or skirt.
• Bring helpers if you have heavy items. A few carts and dolly’s may be available, but expect they may be in use when you need them.
• Test out everything in your exhibit during Load-in Day. Its much easier for us to help you fix an issue at that time.
• Maker Exhibits will be on a shared circuit, be aware that while it is unlikely, your power may be affected by others in your area. If this is a critical concern, please let us know so we can adjust our plans.

Rules and Regulations

Area Managers: Each area of Maker Faire will have a designated Area Manager and Check In Station where you will check in on your arrival day. Your Area Manager will be available to answer any questions and assist you with your setup. Your Check In Station will have their contact information in case a need arises.

Breaks: Each Maker exhibit should be staffed at all times by you or a colleague. If you do not have an assistant and you need a short break, please notify the Area Manager and we will do our best to assist you in finding someone to watch your exhibit. If you need to be away from your exhibit for an extended period of time, please notify the Area Manager.

Electrical: During the event, if you have a problem with your power, please report it immediately to your Area Manager.  They will be able to radio in for the electrician to help.

Child Safety: Maker Faire is a family event. We appreciate your assistance in keeping Maker Faire a safe environment for the children attending the event. For safety purposes, we request that children under the age of 15 not be on the Maker Faire floor during setup or teardown hours. During Maker Faire, if your exhibit has hazardous materials or has elements of concern, please take the time to inform parents and children of safe practices for your exhibit.

Pets: For the safety and well being of our four-legged friends, please leave your pets at home. There are loud noises, many moveable parts, fire elements, and large crowds, all of which do not create a safe environment for pets.

Emergency: In the event of a medical emergency, notify your Area Manager, security personnel, or anyone with a radio or walkie-talkie. They will contact the on-site EMT personnel. If someone dials 911 from their cell phone, the above procedure still needs to be followed for the best possible care, as this will expedite the response of medical assistance.

In the event of a security emergency, notify your Area Manager, security personnel, or anyone with a radio.

Evacuation: Should the need to evacuate arise, staff and visitors will be notified by Security Personnel. Stay calm. Immediately stop any demonstrations or presentations. Do not try to dismantle your exhibit. Even if you cannot see any obvious reason for the alarm calmly make your way to the nearest exit, encouraging others to follow you outside. Once outside, move away from buildings and keep emergency access routes clear. When the necessary authorities deem it safe to reenter the buildings and facility, Makers will be granted access prior to members of the public.