Volunteer Registration

Volunteer for the 2026 Great Northern Festival

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Deadline: Jan 10, 2026 11:59 pm (GMT-06:00) Central Time (US & Canada)
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Date: Jan 28, 2026 10:45 am - Feb 01, 2026 10:00 pm (CST)

About the event

The Great Northern Winter Festival is a celebration of winter, climate, culture, and creativity taking place Jan 28 - Feb 1, 2026. This year we’re bringing our festival to the riverfront of St. Anthony Main with three music stages, outdoor performances, chef demos, public art, a giant winter playground, vendor markets, and visionary climate conversations. Our festival passes are designed to give you more access, more to discover, and more unforgettable winter experiences. Check out the event schedule for a full calendar of events.
The Great Northern
The Great Northern
The Great Northern
The Great Northern

About the application

Join us in bringing winter to life! The Great Northern Festival unites our community through climate action, outdoor adventure, art, food, music, and cultural connection. Each year, the festival welcomes thousands of guests to unforgettable experiences across the Twin Cities and none of it would be possible without the energy and enthusiasm of our wonderful volunteer team! We’re looking for friendly, reliable, community-minded volunteers to help support festival events from January 28th through February 1, 2026. Volunteers play a vital role in guest engagement, event operations, accessibility support, artist hospitality, wayfinding, check-in, and more. Whether you love the outdoors, enjoy meeting new people, or want to support climate-forward events, there’s a place for you on our team. As a Great Northern volunteer, you will: Support festival programming, pop-ups, and partner events Welcome and guide guests, answer questions, and ensure a positive experience Assist with check-in, ticketing, and line management Help with event setup/reset as needed Work alongside staff, artists, partners, and fellow community members Represent The Great Northern with warmth, professionalism, and pride Volunteers Receive***: A volunteer vest Free access to select festival events (after completing orientation) A thank-you reception + volunteer recognition Community service hours (if needed for school or organizations) The experience of being part of a major statewide cultural event Requirements: Must attend one festival introduction session (in-person or virtual) Must complete one orientation session before your first shift Able to stand or move for extended periods (accommodations available) Commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, and community care Ages 16+ (some events may require 18+) How It Works: After submitting your application, you’ll receive a follow-up email with: Orientation information and scheduling Available shift options Event descriptions and role assignments Onsite logistics and check-in instructions We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels — no prior event experience is required. Bring your curiosity, kindness, and enthusiasm for winter, and help us create something extraordinary for our community.

Terms & Conditions

These Terms & Conditions (“Terms”) apply to all individuals (“Volunteers”) submitting an application to volunteer for The Great Northern (“Organization”). By submitting this application, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by the following: 1. Volunteer Status 1.1. Volunteers are not employees, contractors, or agents of the Organization. 1.2. No wages, salary, benefits, or compensation of any kind will be provided unless otherwise stated in writing. 1.3. Volunteer service is at-will and may be terminated by the Volunteer or the Organization at any time. 2. Eligibility 2.1. Volunteers must meet the minimum age requirement set by the Organization. 2.2. Volunteers may be required to submit identification, references, or consent to a background check depending on the role. 2.3. Providing false or misleading information may result in removal from the program. 3. Scheduling & Attendance 3.1. Volunteers agree to attend all required orientations, briefings, or training sessions. 3.2. Volunteers are expected to arrive on time and complete their assigned shift(s). 3.3. Volunteers must notify the Organization as soon as possible if they are unable to attend a scheduled shift. 3.4. Repeated no-shows or tardiness may result in dismissal from volunteering. 4. Conduct & Responsibilities 4.1. Volunteers agree to conduct themselves in a professional, respectful, and safe manner at all times. 4.2. Volunteers must follow all instructions from staff, supervisors, and site managers. 4.3. Harassment, discrimination, disruptive behavior, or unsafe conduct will not be tolerated. 4.4. Volunteers may not speak to the press, media, or partners on behalf of the Organization unless Authorized. 5. Safety & Compliance 5.1. Volunteers must comply with all safety protocols, emergency procedures, and applicable laws. 5.2. Volunteers must immediately report any unsafe conditions, injuries, or incidents to staff. 5.3. Volunteers agree not to engage in activities that may put themselves or others at risk. 6. Property & Equipment 6.1. Any equipment, badges, apparel, or materials issued by the Organization must be used appropriately and returned when required. 6.2. Volunteers are responsible for personal property brought to volunteer activities. The Organization is not responsible for loss or damage. 7. Confidentiality 7.1. Volunteers may be exposed to confidential or sensitive information. 7.2. Volunteers agree not to disclose, copy, or share any confidential information without written Permission. 8. Media & Photography Release 8.1. Volunteers consent to the use of their name, image, and likeness in photos, videos, and promotional materials created during volunteer activities. 8.2. If a volunteer does not consent, they must notify the Organization in writing prior to participating. 9. Liability Release 9.1. Volunteers acknowledge the risks associated with volunteering and agree to participate at their own risk. 9.2. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Volunteers release the Organization, its staff, partners, and affiliates from liability for injuries, losses, or damages incurred during volunteering—except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. 10. Code of Conduct for Interacting With the Public 10.1. Volunteers must maintain professionalism when interacting with guests, vendors, artists, or partners. 10.2. Volunteers may not solicit donations, personal information, or promote personal business. 11. Background Checks (If Applicable) 11.1. Certain volunteer roles may require a background check. 11.2. Volunteers will be informed of their rights and may decline; however, declining may limit eligibility for certain positions. 12. Changes to Terms 12.1. The Organization may modify these Terms at any time. 12.2. Volunteers will be notified of material changes when possible. 13. Acknowledgment By submitting this application, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to these Terms & Conditions. You certify that all information provided is accurate.

Questions on the application

Volunteer information

  • Name
  • Email
  • Phone
  • T-shirt size
Volunteer for the 2026 Great Northern Festival
Volunteer for the 2026 Great Northern Festival
The Great Northern Winter Festival 2026