Volunteer

Training Opportunity – Festival Security Program

Our Security Folk Crew is a dedicated group that provides support during incidents, and ensures general crowd safety using a people-centered approach. The program is a combination of self-directed and group sessions running from November 2026 to June 2027.

Through the training program, you will: 

  • Earn your provincial security guard license + many other certifications 
  • Gain valuable work experience in a supportive and welcoming environment 
  • Build your skills 

Why should you apply? 

  • Training is free for participants
  • Receive valuable and industry-standard training from first-rate instructors
  • Enjoy the Winnipeg Folk Festival as part of our volunteer family!

Download the Security Training Opportunity to learn more.

SIGN UP FOR AN INFO SESSION

Interested applicants must attend an in-person info session on October 8 or 10, 2026.

We welcome a broad range of equity-seeking groups and individuals such as (but not limited to):
Indigenous, Black and people of colour; 2SLGBTQIA+; new Canadians; persons of low socioeconomic status or disabled people to volunteer at the Festival.

Proud Supporters of the Folk Fest Volunteer Family!

FAQ

How many hours do I have to volunteer?

Volunteers on Festival crews have a minimum time commitment of 16-20 hours and must be available for all four days of the Festival. Year-Round and Single Day crew volunteers have different expectations. See those Crew Descriptions for more info.

Can I only volunteer for one day?

Are you only available to volunteer on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday of the Festival weekend? You can still participate! Single Day volunteers take part in all applicable training and meetings, just the same as a full weekend volunteer, and earn a backstage pass for the day(s) they volunteer. Choose one of three crews: Site Enviro, Site Safety, or Traffic.

How long will my shifts be?

Actual shift lengths and times vary by crew. You can find basic shift information about each crew on the Crew Descriptions page, and can discuss details with a crew coordinator when you are interviewed for a particular crew.

How much information should I include in my application?

The more complete your application is, the more likely you are to be selected to volunteer and the better the chances that you will be placed on a crew that’s a good fit.

How do I make sure I get onto the crew I want?

We always consider your crew preferences but cannot guarantee placement on a specific crew. When you apply, you will be asked to choose the top three crews that interest you. You wil also be asked to choose one crew from a list of ‘crews of highest need’. Not all crews have openings every year and this allows us to use your skills where we need them most. Visit our Crew Descriptions page for more information on all of our crews. 

What happens after I apply?

Once you have applied, you will receive an acknowledgment email from us. It will give you some instructions that will help us keep in touch with you about your status.

How will I know I’ve been selected for a crew?

If you are selected for a crew, that crew’s coordinator will contact you directly to talk about their specific requirements and duties to make sure you are able to do the job.

When will I find out if I've been selected to volunteer?

We begin placing some new volunteers right away and strive to finalize our crews by early May. That said, we always have last minute openings and may add new volunteers right up until the Festival weekend.

When is the latest that I can apply?

We will begin placing new volunteers on crews right away and hope to finalize our crews by May. That said, we will always have last minute openings and will be adding new volunteers right until the Festival.

How will I be kept up to date?

After you’ve applied, you’ll receive an acknowledgment email from us with some instructions that will help us stay in touch with you about your status. General volunteer updates are shared with accepted volunteers through regular volunteer e-newsletters. You’ll also be contacted directly by your crew coordinator.

How do I get in touch with you?

Didn’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!
volunteer@winnipegfolkfestival.ca
204-231-0096