Welcome Back, Volunteers!
We are thrilled to have you joining us again for the 49th annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival! Please make sure you review all details so you know what to expect and can make the most of your volunteer experience.
Whether this is your second year or your tenth (or your 49th!), you are part of what makes this Festival possible. Your energy, care, and commitment are what bring this community to life year after year.
2026 Festival Updates:
Committee Updates
Please make sure you review our updated Committee Descriptions Page – several committees are new or have updated names this year
- New! Radioland – formerly a part of Security.
- Beer Gardens → Bars
- Community – Neighbourhood → Neighbourhood
- Community Service – Outreach → Outreach
- Gatekeepers → Grounds Control
- Partay! → now part of Movers n Shakers
- New! Movers n Shakers Committee – welcome our newest team!
Are You Interested in Leadership?
We’re always looking for keen volunteers to step into Shift Lead or Volunteer Coordinator positions. If you’re interested, or have specific leadership skills you’d like to apply, let us know on your application form.
Volunteer Newsletters
This year we’re rolling out a Volunteer Newsletter to keep you in the loop! Once placed, you’ll receive a newsletter at the end of each month leading up to the festival. The newsletter will include everything you need to know for a fun and successful weekend — plus opportunities from partner organizations. Keep an eye on your inbox — we promise not to spam you!
Our Volunteer Values & Culture
As a returning volunteer, you’ve already helped shape the spirit of the Festival. Each year, it’s volunteers like you who bring our values to life in the way we welcome guests, support one another, and create a space where music and community can thrive.
We are guided by:
Artistic Excellence
Celebrating diverse, extraordinary artists and collaborative workshop stages.
Diversity & Inclusion
Creating an equitable, accessible, and welcoming environment for all.
Environmental Stewardship
Caring for the lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh Nations, while inspiring our community to do the same.
Social Justice
Encouraging meaningful dialogue and fairness within our community.
Reconciliation
Honouring local Indigenous communities through meaningful engagement and opportunities.
Volunteering at a Glance
As a returning volunteer, you already know the rhythm – here’s a quick refresher of your Volunteer Commitment:
- Complete your assigned shifts and fulfill your volunteer hours
- Stay connected with your coordinator and check emails regularly
- Attend any required committee meetings or trainings
- Wear your volunteer T-shirt while on shift
- Help create a respectful, inclusive, and positive festival environment
- Review and follow all festival policies and safety guidelines
- Most importantly, bring your energy, kindness, and love of the Festival.
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)
Each year builds on the last, and returning volunteers like you help carry forward the spirit, knowledge, and community that make this Festival so special.
You’ll review and agree to the full Terms & Conditions when submitting your application.
“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!