Top Tips for Volunteering at Festivals: The attraction of festivals and music festivals attracts everyone. Stages decorated with colorful lights, excellent performances, enthusiasm of the crowd and moments spent with friends make it an unforgettable experience of life. But one truth about these events is that their tickets are often very expensive, and it is not possible for everyone to buy them. In such a situation, volunteering emerges as a great option. By becoming a volunteer, you not only become a part of your favourite festival but also get to see and feel the real hard work that goes into organising the event. However, this is not an easy journey, because here your first identity is as a volunteer i.e. a worker and only after that you can enjoy the program as a spectator.
Be clear about shifts and work
Before volunteering at any festival, it is very important to know how many hours you are expected to work. Many times the organizers do not tell the exact timing of the shifts in advance but definitely tell the total working hours, such as three shifts × 8 hours or a total of 20 hours over the entire weekend. If you are comfortable with these conditions, then only proceed, otherwise there may be difficulties in between. The most important thing is that work should be your priority during volunteering. If you are thinking that you have to watch the show of a particular singer or band at all costs, then it may not be possible. In such a situation, to avoid disappointment, it would be better that you go with an open mind and enjoy the rest of the wonderful experiences wholeheartedly.
Prepare for camping in advance
In most festivals, the accommodation facility is based on camping. Therefore, it is important to understand in advance what kind of camping arrangement has been made by your organization. Some places only allow tents, while if you want to stay in a van, you may have to book and pay for a separate space. Also, if you want to camp with friends who are not volunteers, check whether this is allowed or not. Often, volunteers have to stay in the crew area for the first few days and are allowed to move to other locations later. So be prepared and pack accordingly.
Understand the food arrangements
Food arrangements at festivals vary from place to place. Some provide food to volunteers, while others are only for purchase. It is important to know in advance whether food or kitchen space is being provided by your organisation. If not, you will have to prepare the food yourself. Carrying a light gas stove, some snacks and essential items will make your experience easier. If you arrive at the site before the public gates open, it is also important to find out if there is a provision for purchasing food.
Take care of your fitness and health
Volunteering at a festival means working continuously, sometimes standing or walking for long periods of time. This is not easy work and demands energy from your body. Therefore, it is important that you are healthy and in working condition. Working under the influence of alcohol or drugs can cause problems not only for you but for the entire event.
It is also equally important to take care of the weather. Festivals are often held in open spaces where you may have to face both sun and rain. So always keep essential items like umbrellas, hats and raincoats with you.
Pay attention to sleep, food and water
The biggest secret of volunteering is how you keep your body energized by preventing fatigue. For this, adequate sleep, good food and plenty of water are necessary. Experienced volunteers say eating at least two full meals a day and drinking plenty of water helps keep your energy up. In addition, small preparations such as extra socks, a comfortable bed and a sturdy chair can make your job easier.
Small but important arrangements
Sometimes small arrangements can be a big help when volunteering at festivals. For example, clear plastic bags that you can use to keep your clothes dry, use as an emergency poncho, sit on wet ground or keep clean and dirty clothes separate. Similarly, a thermos flask or camping mug can prove to be very useful for you during cold night shifts. The weather can change at any time, so it is also important to bring warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
How to volunteer at multiple festivals
If you dream of volunteering at not just one but several festivals, joining a large organization such as Oxfam may be a good option. They often offer volunteer opportunities at multiple festivals with a single deposit. This saves you money and gives you the opportunity to experience different events.
Be patient and maintain balance
The festival atmosphere is full of excitement but it is very important to maintain the right balance of your energy during this time. If you work too hard at the beginning, you may lose the enjoyment of the days ahead. So save your energy from the beginning and keep taking adequate rest. This patience and balance will keep you active throughout the festival.
Conclusion
Volunteering at a festival is not just a way to save tickets, but it is also a unique and memorable experience of life. It gives you a chance to see the real hard work and teamwork of the event closely. But preparation and discipline are very important to make this experience enjoyable. If you keep in mind the tips related to shifts, camping, food and health, then your trip will not only be successful but will also prove to be extremely enjoyable.
So the next time you get a chance to volunteer at a festival, remember these tips and make your experience unforgettable.
