Educational Content Only - Important Disclaimer
This guide is provided for educational purposes only. Commonwealth Grocers does not suggest, recommend, or encourage you to organize these events. We are not liable for any actions you take based on this information. Always comply with local laws, health regulations, and obtain necessary permits before organizing any public food events.
The Pop-up Playbook
Learn how communities are organizing free food events by accessing wholesale markets directly, building food security and community with tacos.
How It Works
By purchasing food at wholesale prices and organizing community events, groups have been able to:
Savings vs grocery store prices
Of people fed per event
Cost recovery through donations
What You'll Need
Essential Supplies
- Grill
For cooking fresh tacos on-site
- Plates & Napkins
Eco-friendly options preferred
- Coolers & Ice
Keep ingredients fresh and safe
- Signage
Whiteboard works great for 'Free Tacos' sign
- Taco Filling
Meat, beans, or veggie options
- Tortillas
Get these wholesale too!
Recommended Extras
- Pop-up Tent
Shade for volunteers and food
- Folding Tables & Chairs
Create a welcoming space
- Payment Apps
Venmo/CashApp for donations
- Taco Toppings
Pico, sour cream, cheese
- Community Art Supplies
Big paper roll & markers
- Portable Speaker
Music brings people together
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's how communities have successfully organized wholesale food pop-ups
Accessing Wholesale Food
Finding Local Vendors
- •Talk to grocery store receivers - They interact with all vendors and have contact info
- •Look for delivery trucks - Many display company names and phone numbers
- •Approach drivers directly - Mission Tortillas, meat vendors, produce suppliers
Establishing Minimums
- •Vendors need minimum orders to make stops worthwhile
- •Ask upfront about their minimum order requirements
- •Consider offering a tip to make smaller orders viable
Organizing Delivery
- •Arrange delivery to your location if space allows, or
- •Meet vendors on their route with a truck/large vehicle
- •Transfer cold items to coolers with ice immediately
Event Preparation
Market the Event
- • Create events on Meetup.com and Eventbrite
- • Choose high foot- & car-traffic locations
- • Scout location for conflicts
- See example event
Recruit Volunteers
- • Need 2-3 people minimum
- • Cooking and serving roles
- • Setup/breakdown help
- • Donation collection
Prepare Food
- • Learn basic butchering or find help
- • Vacuum seal extra portions
- • Pre-marinate and partially cook
- View prep tutorials
Print Educational Materials
Show the community how much they can save by comparing wholesale vs retail prices
Day of Event
Event Execution
- Set up grill and supplies with visible signage
- Use tally counter app to track attendance and sources
- Document everything - photos and videos
- Engage with community about food systems
Share Your Impact
Help spread awareness about alternative food systems:
- • Tag @commonwealthfood on TikTok
- • Tag @commonwealthgrocers on other platforms
- • Use hashtags: #FoodSovereignty #CommunityFood
- • Share your learnings with others
Resources & Downloads
Ready to Transform Your Local Food System?
Help us bring Commonwealth Grocers to your area. When we reach 1,000 signups in your town or city we'll be able to start building infrastructure for wholesale grocery access with you.
Sign Up & Refer OthersWant to join a community of doers using this playbook?
Remember: Always comply with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for public events.