The call is out for food and retail vendors for RAGBRAI Sioux City on Saturday, July 22, when thousands of bicyclists will arrive to start their ride across the state the next morning.

The goal is to have 20-30 food vendors, according to Kathleen Vondrak, general manager of food and beverage at the Tyson Events Center and RAGBRAI’s food & non-food vendor committee chair. Vondrak has been contacting potential food vendors this month and directing them to the vendor application form. Applications must be submitted by June 1.

“People are looking for healthier and unique options,” she added. “So far, we have connected with barbecue food trucks, Mexican food trucks, and others. Barbecue is the most popular so far. A deviled egg company is coming from Omaha, and chicken and waffles from Le Mars.” All vendor food will have to be made on site or made and packaged as cottage food, said Vondrak.

Sioux City RAGBRAI leaders will also be on the look-out for rogue vendors. “You cannot set up as a street vendor if you are not registered,” Vondrak said.

For a sponsorship fee, local restaurants and businesses will be promoted too, both on the map in information packets provided to all cyclists, and through a new delivery service. Market Delivers, a local Sioux City food delivery service, will be new this year to promote fare from local eateries. RAGBRAI cyclists and team members will be able to order from long-time Sioux City staples such as Tastees, Milwaukee Wiener, and other local restaurants, and have meals delivered to their campground at Chris Larsen and Riverside parks. Retail vendors will also serve customers with sales for T-shirts, hats, UV attire, and more. Opportunities Unlimited will sell bike helmets to promote their ongoing message of safety to prevent brain injuries.

“Working with vendors is fun and a huge challenge but I think it will really make a big impact on Sioux City,” Vondrak said. “We want to be known for a great start for the 50th anniversary of RAGBRAI. It’s important to create a great atmosphere for the kick-off and set the tone for the rest of the week.”

Vendors operating Saturday will be set up on the grounds of the Tyson Events Center and Long Lines Family Rec Center. Sunday vendors will be set up at the Main Campgrounds in Chris Larsen Park along the riverfront and Riverside Park.

Food vendors fees are $300 for non-profit food vendors, $700 for for-profit food vendors. Retail vendors are non-profit, $150 and for-profit, $300.

Other fees charged are current Sioux City Farmers Market Vendors, $150 and 4th Street Pop Up Vendors placed on Historic 4th Street, $300. All vendors will also pay a $100 cleaning deposit. For-profit and non-profit vendors are asked to submit their applications, proof of insurance, licenses, applicable permits, and payments by June 1 to secure their spot. Questions may be directed to Vondrak at scragbraifb2023@gmail.com.