Volunteer Registration

2026 Festival Volunteer Application

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Deadline: May 02, 2026 11:59 pm (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
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Date: May 23, 2026 11:00 am - May 24, 2026 6:00 pm (PST)

About the event

Carnaval San Francisco brings 500,000 people to our annual celebration, making it the largest multicultural festival in the West Coast. Our mission is to educate people on the Latino, Caribbean and African Diasporic traditions of the Mission District and the San Francisco Bay Area. Our free, two–day Festival covers 17 blocks in the Mission District, with five main stages, 50 local performing artists, and 400 vendors. The festival includes international food, dancing, sampling sites and entertainment for families, couples and friends of all ethnic, social and economic backgrounds.
Cultura Y Arte Nativa de las Americas
Cultura Y Arte Nativa de las Americas
Cultura Y Arte Nativa de las Americas
Cultura Y Arte Nativa de las Americas

About the application

Event Dates: Saturday, May 23 & Sunday, May 24, 2026 Event Time: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm (both days) Volunteer Shifts: Vary depending on volunteer position Volunteer Perks * Free lunch provided to all volunteers * Carnaval SF volunteer t-shirt (for those who signed up before the orientation) Mandatory Volunteer Orientation All volunteers must attend one of the following orientation options: * In-Person Orientation: Saturday, May 16 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM * Online Orientation: Tuesday, May 19 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM We strongly encourage attending the in-person orientation for the best experience and walk-through. If you cannot attend in person, you must attend the online option. In the application, you’ll be asked to select your preferred orientation.

Terms & Conditions

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. THIS SECTION AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS! Cultura y Arte Nativa de las Americas (CANA) is a non-profit organization located in San Francisco, CA and produces the street fair and celebration known as Carnaval (hereinafter collectively “Carnaval San Francisco”). It is the policy of Carnaval San Francisco to provide equal opportunities to individuals who desire to volunteer at Carnaval San Francisco without regard to the volunteer individual’s race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual preference or orientation, age, or disability. The undersigned is a volunteer participant in Carnaval San Francisco (Volunteer). I desire to work with Carnaval San Francisco in 2026 on a volunteer basis and engage in the activities related to being a volunteer (the "Activities"). I understand that the activities I undertake as a Volunteer may include standing for periods of time, sitting, walking, bending, climbing, lifting, and interacting with vendors, spectators, artists and Comparsas (Parade Contingents) depending on positions during events. In consideration of my desire to serve as a Volunteer with Carnaval San Francisco in 2026, I hereby assume all responsibility for any and all risk of bodily injury and/or property damage that I may sustain while participating in any activity relating to Carnaval San Francisco in 2026. This Release and Waiver of Liability is executed by me in favor of Carnaval San Francisco, its Board of Directors, staff, producers, coordinators, and agents. I hereby freely, voluntarily, and without duress execute this Release as follows: 1. Release and Waiver: I hereby release and forever discharge and hold harmless Carnaval San Francisco and its officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers from any and all liability, claims, and demands of whatever kind or nature, by law which arise or may hereafter arise from Volunteer’s Activities with Carnaval San Francisco in 2026. I understand that this Release discharges Carnaval San Francisco and its officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers from any liability or claim that I may have against Carnaval San Francisco with respect to any bodily injury, personal injury, illness, death, or property damage that may result from my Activities at Carnaval San Francisco in 2026, whether caused by the negligence of Carnaval San Francisco or its officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers, or Carnaval San Francisco committees, producers, agents or otherwise. I also understand that Carnaval San Francisco does not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance to me, including but not limited to medical, health, or disability insurance in the event of injury or illness. 2. Medical Treatment: I hereby release and forever discharge Carnaval San Francisco, and its officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers from any claim whatsoever which arises or may hereafter arise on account of any first aid, treatment, or service rendered to me in connection with my volunteer activities with Carnaval San Francisco in 2026. 3. Assumption of the Risk: I understand that the activities at Carnaval San Francisco include work that may involve long periods of standing and/or walking, including, but not limited to, loading and unloading, building/breaking down structures, lifting, bending, handling heavy loads and/or equipment and working with vendors, spectators, artists and Comparsas (Parade Artist Contingents). I hereby expressly and specifically assume the risk of injury or harm inherent in or arising from the Activities and release Carnaval San Francisco, and its officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers for ALL liability for injury, illness, death, or property damage resulting from the described activities. 4. Insurance: I understand that, except as otherwise agreed to in writing by Carnaval San Francisco, Carnaval San Francisco does not carry or maintain health, medical, workers compensation, disability insurance coverage for any volunteer. No employment relationship is created by my volunteering for Carnaval San Francisco. I understand that Carnaval San Francisco expects and encourages me to obtain my own medical or health insurance coverage. 5. Photographic Release: Volunteer does hereby grant and convey unto Carnaval San Francisco all right, title, and interest in any and all photographic images and video or audio recordings made by Carnaval San Francisco during the Volunteer’s activities or participation with Carnaval San Francisco, including, but not limited to, any royalties, proceeds, or other benefits derived from such photographs or recordings. 6. Other: Volunteer expressly agrees that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the laws of the City and County of San Francisco and the State of California and that this Release shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the City and County of San Francisco and the State of California. Volunteer agrees that in the event that any clause or provision of this Release shall be held to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such clause or provision shall not otherwise affect the remaining provisions of this Release which shall continue to be enforceable. I acknowledge that I am strictly a volunteer, not an employee with Carnaval San Francisco. There is no obligation for the Carnaval San Francisco to pay for my volunteer services. I agree to respect and follow all the rules, requirements, and directions given by Carnaval San Francisco the entire time I am volunteering. I have no known mental or physical condition that would impair my capability for full participation as intended or expected of me. If I develop a mental or physical condition which would impair my capability to participate in the activities of Carnaval San Francisco in 2026 I agree to promptly provide Carnaval San Francisco with notice of that circumstance. I, the undersigned VOLUNTEER, have carefully read the foregoing release and indemnification provisions and understand the contents thereof and sign this release as my own, free act.

Shifts

Title Location Time Slots available Hours
Festival Day 1: Block Captain [AM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 5:30 am - 11:30 am 14 6
message The Festival Block Captains assist with checking in vendors and ensuring they are placed correctly within their assigned section of the festival footprint. Once vendors are placed, FBCs patrol their assigned block to answer questions, help troubleshoot minor issues, and communicate with staff as needed. Note: This role requires a special orientation separate from the general volunteer training.
Festival Day 1: Set Up Team [AM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 7:00 am - 11:00 am 10 4
message The Set Up Team supports the Carnaval SF Production Team by setting up tents, tables, chairs, fencing, and barricades for vendors, sponsors, and exhibitors. Be prepared to do light to moderate lifting and follow placement instructions from event staff. Note: Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds. Gloves recommended.
Festival Day 1: Comparsa Stage Assistant [AM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 3 5
message The Comparsa Stage Assistants support the Comparsa Stage team by helping line up performers, cue performances, assist with transitions, and crowd control. You’ll help keep the show flowing and ensure performers are in the right place at the right time! Note: Great for volunteers who love performance energy and can stay calm under pressure.
Festival Day 1: Entrance Greeter [AM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 16 5
message The Entrance Greeter Team greets guests at one of the festival’s eight entrances! Volunteers will work in pairs or small groups to welcome attendees, distribute promotional items, and encourage donations using a QR code and short script provided. Help set the tone for an amazing day! Note: Perfect for friendly, outgoing volunteers who enjoy engaging with the public.
Festival Day 1: Info Booth [AM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 6 5
message The Information Booth Team will welcome guests and answer general questions about Carnaval SF! Volunteers will help provide information about stage performances, vendor zones, and festival layout. Training on Carnaval basics will be provided. Note: Must be friendly, helpful, and comfortable talking to the public.
Festival Day 1: Volunteer Booth [AM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 2 5
message Support the Volunteer Coordinator team by checking in scheduled volunteers, handing out t-shirts, and distributing lunches to those who’ve completed their shifts. This is a central support role that helps keep things running smoothly for all volunteers. Note: Volunteers will work from a list of pre-scheduled volunteers. No walk-ins or on-site sign-ups.
Festival Day 1: Block Captain [PM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm 7 6
message The Festival Block Captain PM shift helps maintain a smooth and orderly festival environment once all vendors are set up. Their primary responsibilities include monitoring their assigned block to ensure vendors and exhibitors have proper credentials, verifying that only registered participants are present, and addressing any issues that arise during event hours. As the event concludes, Block Captains assist with traffic management and vendor load-out, helping ensure that vehicles enter and exit safely and efficiently. They communicate with staff and security as needed to report concerns, support crowd flow, and maintain a safe, positive atmosphere for everyone. Note: This role requires a special orientation separate from the general volunteer training.
Festival Day 1: Comparsa Stage Assistant [PM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 3 5
message The Comparsa Stage Assistants support the Comparsa Stage team by helping line up performers, cue performances, assist with transitions, and crowd control. You’ll help keep the show flowing and ensure performers are in the right place at the right time! Note: Great for volunteers who love performance energy and can stay calm under pressure.
Festival Day 1: Entrance Greeter [PM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 16 5
message The Entrance Greeter Team greets guests at one of the festival’s eight entrances! Volunteers will work in pairs or small groups to welcome attendees, distribute promotional items, and encourage donations using a QR code and short script provided. Help set the tone for an amazing day! Note: Perfect for friendly, outgoing volunteers who enjoy engaging with the public.
Festival Day 1: Info Booth [PM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 6 5
message The Information Booth Team will welcome guests and answer general questions about Carnaval SF! Volunteers will help provide information about stage performances, vendor zones, and festival layout. Training on Carnaval basics will be provided. Note: Must be friendly, helpful, and comfortable talking to the public.
Festival Day 1: Volunteer Booth [PM] San Francisco, CA May 23, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 2 5
message Support the Volunteer Coordinator team by checking in scheduled volunteers, handing out t-shirts, and distributing lunches to those who’ve completed their shifts. This is a central support role that helps keep things running smoothly for all volunteers. Note: Volunteers will work from a list of pre-scheduled volunteers. No walk-ins or on-site sign-ups.
Festival Day 2: Block Captain [AM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 6:00 am - 12:00 pm 14 6
message The Festival Block Captains assist with checking in vendors and ensuring they are placed correctly within their assigned section of the festival footprint. Once vendors are placed, FBCs patrol their assigned block to answer questions, help troubleshoot minor issues, and communicate with staff as needed. Note: This role requires a special orientation separate from the general volunteer training.
Festival Day 2: Comparsa Stage Assistant [AM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 3 5
message The Comparsa Stage Assistants support the Comparsa Stage team by helping line up performers, cue performances, assist with transitions, and crowd control. You’ll help keep the show flowing and ensure performers are in the right place at the right time! Note: Great for volunteers who love performance energy and can stay calm under pressure.
Festival Day 2: Entrance Greeter [AM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 16 5
message The Entrance Greeter Team greets guests at one of the festival’s eight entrances! Volunteers will work in pairs or small groups to welcome attendees, distribute promotional items, and encourage donations using a QR code and short script provided. Help set the tone for an amazing day! Note: Perfect for friendly, outgoing volunteers who enjoy engaging with the public.
Festival Day 2: Info Booth [AM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 6 5
message The Information Booth Team will welcome guests and answer general questions about Carnaval SF! Volunteers will help provide information about stage performances, vendor zones, and festival layout. Training on Carnaval basics will be provided. Note: Must be friendly, helpful, and comfortable talking to the public.
Festival Day 2: Volunteer Booth [AM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm 2 5
message Support the Volunteer Coordinator team by checking in scheduled volunteers, handing out t-shirts, and distributing lunches to those who’ve completed their shifts. This is a central support role that helps keep things running smoothly for all volunteers. Note: Volunteers will work from a list of pre-scheduled volunteers. No walk-ins or on-site sign-ups.
Festival Day 2: Block Captain [PM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm 7 6
message The Festival Block Captain PM shift helps maintain a smooth and orderly festival environment once all vendors are set up. Their primary responsibilities include monitoring their assigned block to ensure vendors and exhibitors have proper credentials, verifying that only registered participants are present, and addressing any issues that arise during event hours. As the event concludes, Block Captains assist with traffic management and vendor load-out, helping ensure that vehicles enter and exit safely and efficiently. They communicate with staff and security as needed to report concerns, support crowd flow, and maintain a safe, positive atmosphere for everyone. Note: This role requires a special orientation separate from the general volunteer training.
Festival Day 2: Comparsa Stage Assistant [PM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 3 5
message The Comparsa Stage Assistants support the Comparsa Stage team by helping line up performers, cue performances, assist with transitions, and crowd control. You’ll help keep the show flowing and ensure performers are in the right place at the right time! Note: Great for volunteers who love performance energy and can stay calm under pressure.
Festival Day 2: Entrance Greeter [PM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 16 5
message The Entrance Greeter Team greets guests at one of the festival’s eight entrances! Volunteers will work in pairs or small groups to welcome attendees, distribute promotional items, and encourage donations using a QR code and short script provided. Help set the tone for an amazing day! Note: Perfect for friendly, outgoing volunteers who enjoy engaging with the public.
Festival Day 2: Info Booth [PM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 6 5
message The Information Booth Team will welcome guests and answer general questions about Carnaval SF! Volunteers will help provide information about stage performances, vendor zones, and festival layout. Training on Carnaval basics will be provided. Note: Must be friendly, helpful, and comfortable talking to the public.
Festival Day 2: Volunteer Booth [PM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm 2 5
message Support the Volunteer Coordinator team by checking in scheduled volunteers, handing out t-shirts, and distributing lunches to those who’ve completed their shifts. This is a central support role that helps keep things running smoothly for all volunteers. Note: Volunteers will work from a list of pre-scheduled volunteers. No walk-ins or on-site sign-ups.
Festival Day 2: Festival Break Down Team [PM] San Francisco, CA May 24, 2026 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm 10 4
message The Festival Break Down Team helps close out Carnaval SF by safely disassembling tents, tables, chairs, and fencing, and organizing them on the nearest corner of your assigned block for easy pickup. Streets should be left clear. No tools required! Note: Best for volunteers who can lift light to moderate weight and are comfortable moving equipment.

Questions on the application

Volunteer information

  • Name
  • Email
  • Phone
  • Age
  • Address
  • Emergency contacts
  • Picture
  • T-shirt size

Additional information

  • If you selected "Yes," please briefly describe those tasks that you might be unable to perform comfortably.
  • If you selected "Yes," please provide the name of the employer with whom you are volunteering so that we may assign you to a shift with your team.
  • Language(s) Spoken
  • Volunteer Orientation Date
  • Do you have any limitations our Volunteer Team should be aware of when assigning volunteer roles (e.g., walking, standing, lifting)?
  • Are you applying to volunteer as part of an Employee Resource Group (ERG) or affinity group of a local business, organization or corporation?
2026 Festival Volunteer Application
2026 Festival Volunteer Application
2026 Carnaval San Francisco Festival