As a Festaff volunteer, you help set the tone at every festival — not just during your shift, but around camp too. From how we treat the land to how we treat each other, small actions can make a big difference.
Festivals bring people together — but they also leave an impact. That’s why we all have a role to play in creating clean, welcoming, and respectful spaces across the site. Whether you’re new to volunteering or a returning pro, here’s how to help keep the vibes high, the campsite tidy, and the experience running smoothly for everyone.
Respect the space
Campsites might feel like a temporary home — but the fields, parks, and green spaces we use don’t just bounce back overnight. Every chair, tent or bag of rubbish left behind has a knock-on effect. Pack light, plan to take everything home, and keep your pitch as clean at the end as it was when you arrived.
Think practically – and sustainably
Reusables aren’t just eco-friendly, they’re easier to manage too. Water bottles, coffee cups, cutlery — bring your own and avoid single-use plastics where possible. Glass is banned at most events for a reason: it breaks easily, can injure others, and is difficult to clean up safely. Opt for cans or reusable containers instead.
Be the neighbour everyone hopes for
Say hello. Don’t block paths with kit. Keep the volume down during super-early hours — mornings at festivals can be noisy, but no one wants full speaker setups before they’ve had their first coffee. Whether you’re lending a spare tent peg, offering a bin bag, or helping someone with their setup, a little bit of campsite kindness goes a long way — especially after a long shift.
Represent the Festaff crew
Wearing that wristband means something. You’re part of the team helping to create a smooth, safe, and welcoming festival experience — and the impact you have really matters. No pressure to be perfect — just lead with kindness, stay switched on when needed, and enjoy the experience.
A better site is better for everyone
Looking after your space and your neighbours doesn’t just help the crew — it helps the entire festival community. It’s about being part of something that lasts beyond your wristband: a shared experience, a sense of pride, and a site that’s ready to welcome the next crowd.
Did You Know?
Some of the festivals you'll be volunteering at with Festaff are leading the way in sustainability:
●LIDO Festival and All Points East are both organised by AEG Europe and have received recognition for their environmental efforts. All Points East has achieved a ‘Commended’ rating from A Greener Future (AGF), thanks to initiatives like zero waste to landfill, compostable serveware, and a site-wide ban on pointless single-use plastics. LIDO Festival is debuting with a strong focus on sustainability too — partnering with local vendors, encouraging green travel, and trialling new eco-conscious initiatives that aim to reduce its overall footprint.
●Boomtown Fair is known for its radical approach to reuse, waste reduction, and sustainability education. From its Eco Bond scheme, which rewards attendees for returning waste and packing up properly, to immersive areas that promote environmental awareness, Boomtown’s green ethos runs throughout the entire event — and volunteers play a key role in keeping that culture alive.
●Isle of Wight Festival has introduced cutting-edge green energy solutions, including hydrogen-powered generators and electricity generation from grass cut on-site. The festival also continues to explore new ways to reduce emissions and power the event more responsibly while keeping the iconic experience intact.
By volunteering at these events, you're not just helping them run — you’re part of a team that’s helping do better, together.
