Join our Volunteer Family! 

Thank you for your interest in joining us for the 49th Annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival! We believe that volunteering with the Folk Fest is an experience like no other – made up of amazing people, incredible music, community, team work, and the joy of being a part of something truly special. 

Did you know that each year, 1,000 volunteers come together across 50 different committees to make the festival happen? This festival is a collaboration and one that we couldn’t do without our amazing volunteer community. 

Curious what role might be right for you? Make sure to read our Committee Descriptions! 

Why Volunteer with the Vancouver Folk Music Festival? 

  • Help bring music, art, and culture to our community.
  • Connect with like-minded people and make lasting friendships.
  • Enjoy incredible music from around the world in a stunning seaside location
  • Contribute to environmental stewardship and social justice initiatives.
  • Be part of the festival family, celebrating diversity and inclusion.
  • Learn new skills, or practice existing ones
  • Gain work experience or volunteer hours as needed 

“I love volunteering at the VFMF in particular because it’s the highlight of summer in Vancouver and I love discovering unique and amazing artists every year…! I continue to be inspired to volunteer because I care so much about this festival and its community and want to help it thrive into the future” – Rosalind, Raffle Committee

“I volunteer for the festival because I love music and its ability to bring all different types of people together.  I love the early morning performances especially, watching the sun dance through the leaves of the beautiful shade trees, feeling the rhythms through the earth, and watching faces all around me light up with joy, awe and excitement.” – Dustin, Gate Committee

“My favourite part of volunteering for the Vancouver Folk Music Festival is the folks. It is the community of people who inspire me by engaging in and contributing to something bigger than the collective. I have enchanting memories of the opportunities to be immersed in diversity and creativity” – Olivia, Environment Committee

Volunteering at a Glance

Here’s what you commit to as a volunteer: 

  • Commit to your assigned shifts and complete your volunteer hours
  • Attend any required orientation or committee meetings
  • Communicate with your coordinator and stay up to date via email
  • Be respectful, inclusive, and supportive of fellow volunteers, staff, artists, and guests
  • Follow all festival policies and safety guidelines
  • Some roles may require specific skills, certifications, or age requirements

Full Terms & Conditions will be reviewed and accepted as part of the application process.

Volunteer Perks

As a part of our volunteer Community, you’ll enjoy: 

  • Festival Access (weekend pass, backstage areas)
  • Food & Perks (vouchers, refreshments, discounts)
  • Community (volunteer party, giveaways)
  • Recognition (reference letters, certificates)

Before applying, please review the Full Committee Descriptions and the Volunteer F.A.Q to ensure you have all the information you need.

All NEW volunteers are required to complete an online volunteer orientation. Watch your emails for the link!

VOLUNTEER F.A.Q

Who can volunteer?

Anyone aged 14 and older is welcome to volunteer. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, bringing a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. Some committees have specific age or skill requirements. We encourage people from historically underrepresented communities and volunteers of all abilities to apply – everyone has something unique to contribute!

How many hours do I need to volunteer?

All Festival Weekend Volunteers will be scheduled for 15 hours over the festival weekend, including training hours.  

Pre/Post Volunteers will be scheduled for 30 hours, including training hours. 

Scheduling is done by the Committee Coordinators

All volunteers are required to attend mandatory onsite committee meetings in the week immediately preceding the Festival weekend.

Do I need previous experience?

Some committees require specific certifications, while others are a great place to learn new skills. Don’t worry if you don’t have direct experience – just let us know why you’re interested, and we’ll do our best to find a good fit.

Do I need specific skills or certifications?

Some committees require specific skills or certifications, such as:

  • Driver’s abstract – required for driving roles
  • Serving It Right certificate – required for roles involving alcohol service
  • Sample of work – required for Photography and Video committees

Food Safe – recommended for roles involving food

What is a Committee Coordinator?

Committee Coordinators are volunteer leaders who support and guide their teams. They’ll be your main point of contact and will share all role-specific details once you’re assigned.

What if I have questions my Coordinator can’t answer?

Volunteer Ops is here for you! If you have any questions you can email Parisa Ebrahimi, Manager of Volunteer Operations, at volunteers@thefestival.bc.ca

How do I get trained for my role?

All new volunteers complete an online orientation

Role-specific training is provided by your Committee Coordinator

Most committees also hold an on-site training in the week leading up to the festival

Can I volunteer with a friend?

Yes! Be sure to request each other on your application form. Please note that our larger committees (like Environment, Bars, Security, Labour Pool, and Community) are often best suited for group placements.

Can I volunteer for just one day?

At this time, we are not able to accommodate single-day volunteers. Please refer to the volunteer commitment details above.

How do I learn more?

Once you’re placed on a team, your Committee Coordinator will share all the details you need. You’ll also receive our Volunteer Newsletter and access to the Volunteer Info Hub.
Still have questions? Reach out anytime at volunteers@thefestival.bc.ca.

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