Volunteering at Music Festivals: A Unique Experience

Written for Wessex Student Magazine. To read about the experience of volunteering, click here

Volunteering at a music festival is a fantastic opportunity. You can combine your love of music with giving back to the community. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the festival from behind the scenes, meet new people, and gain valuable skills.

Why Volunteer at a Music Festival?

Free Entry: Most festivals offer free entry to volunteers in exchange for their time and effort. This is a fantastic way to experience a festival on a student budget.

Unique Experience: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how festivals operate.

Meet New People: Connect with like-minded individuals from all over the world.

Gain Valuable Skills: Develop skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and time management and can be included on personal statements and CV’s

Give Back to the Community: Support a worthy cause and contribute to a positive event.

What Kind of Roles Are Available?

Festival volunteer roles vary widely, but here are some common examples:

Stewarding: Managing crowds, directing festivalgoers, and ensuring safety.

Bar Staff: Serving drinks and ensuring responsible alcohol consumption.

Box Office: Selling tickets and managing entry to the festival.

Cleaning and Waste Management: Keeping the festival site clean and tidy.

Security: Monitoring the festival grounds and preventing incidents.

Merchandise: Selling festival merchandise and promoting the event’s brand.

How to Find Volunteer Opportunities

Many organizations and festivals offer volunteer opportunities. Here are some tips on how to find them:  

Check Festival Websites: Most major festivals have a dedicated volunteer section on their website.

Volunteer Organizations: Organizations like Oxfam often recruit volunteers for music festivals.

Social media: Follow festivals and volunteer organizations on social media for updates and opportunities.

Word of Mouth: Talk to friends and acquaintances who have volunteered at festivals.

Oxfam Festival Volunteering

Oxfam offers a unique opportunity to volunteer at some of the world’s biggest music festivals. As an Oxfam volunteer, you’ll help raise money for vital humanitarian work while enjoying the festival atmosphere.

To apply to volunteer with Oxfam, visit their website: https://festivals.oxfam.org.uk/

Tips for a Successful Volunteer Experience

Be Prepared: Research the festival, understand your role, and pack accordingly.

Be Punctual and Reliable: Arrive on time for your shifts and be committed to your duties.  

Be Positive and Enthusiastic: A positive attitude can make a significant difference.

Be a Team Player: Work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff.

Be Flexible: Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances.

Have Fun: Enjoy the experience and make the most of your time at the festival.

Click these links to join Facebook groups for more volunteering opportunities.