Your Guide to Event Liability Insurance in Washington
Spring in Washington means event season is in full bloom! Whether you’re hosting a community block party, organizing a farmers market, or setting up a booth at a local festival, outdoor events are a great way to engage with customers and grow your business. But along with the fun comes a little risk—especially when it comes to event liability insurance and protecting your business from unexpected incidents.
At North Town Insurance in Spokane, WA, we help Washington businesses prepare for the unexpected. Here’s what you should know about liability risks and event liability insurance options if you’re planning to host or participate in outdoor events this spring.
Why Event Liability Insurance Matters for Spring Events
Hosting or participating in public events opens your business up to liability—think slips and falls, property damage, food-related illness, or even something as random as a guest tripping over your extension cord. If something goes wrong, event liability insurance can help protect your business from costly legal claims and interruptions.
Common Liability Risks at Outdoor Events:
- Guest injuries (slips, falls, etc.)
- Foodborne illness (for food vendors)
- Property damage (equipment, tents, etc.)
- Vendor disputes
- Weather-related damage to rented equipment
These are exactly the types of risks that event liability insurance is designed to cover.
Insurance Options for Washington Businesses Hosting Events
Depending on the type and frequency of your events, here are the most common event liability insurance options available for Washington businesses:
General Liability Policy – Best for Multiple Events
If you’re hosting multiple events throughout the year—like monthly markets, corporate picnics, or seasonal fairs—a General Liability Insurance policy is likely the best fit. It provides comprehensive coverage for third-party bodily injury, property damage, and legal costs. Long term, it’s more cost-effective than purchasing individual policies for each event.
Great for: Event organizers, recurring hosts, business owners with ongoing public exposure.
Single Event Insurance – Best for One-Time Events
If you’re only hosting one event this season, a single-event liability policy is an affordable and easy solution. It gives you peace of mind for just the day (or weekend) of your event without committing to long-term coverage.
Resource: Event Insurance – RVNA
Great for: Charity events, weddings, community fundraisers, and one-time pop-ups.
Vendor Insurance – Best for Farmers Markets & Pop-Ups
If you’re a vendor at a local farmers market, food fair, or craft show, you may be required to carry your own event liability insurance. These policies are designed specifically for individual vendors and small businesses.
If you’re a vendor at a local farmers market, food fair, or craft show, you may be required to carry your own event liability insurance. These policies are designed specifically for individual vendors and small businesses.
Resource: Best Food Business Insurance – FLIP
Great for: Food vendors, artisans, crafters, and independent sellers.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
We know insurance can be overwhelming—especially when you’re focused on making your event a success. That’s why we’re here.
At North Town Insurance, we specialize in helping small businesses throughout Spokane and Washington State find the right event liability insurance coverage. Whether you’re organizing or attending an event, we’ll walk you through your options and make sure you’re protected.
Have questions? We’re happy to help!
Call us at (509) 483-3030
Email: info@northtowninsurance.com
Final Thoughts: Stay Protected & Enjoy the Season!
Spring events should be about community, fun, and business growth—not liability headaches. With the right event liability insurance, you can relax and focus on creating memorable experiences for your customers.
From Spokane street fairs to Seattle farmers markets, and everywhere in between, North Town Insurance is here to help Washington businesses stay protected this season.
Read the April 2025 Edition of our Newsletter: Your Source for the Latest Insurance Industry Insights
Fine Print: This is a general overview with the intention of bringing awareness to coverage options and general industry standards. Coverage varies between carriers and states. Check your policy for specifics.