Let’s Make it happen

The festival lives because people like you show up and help build it.

Person wearing a pink hijab and patterned clothes standing next to a red razorback mascot holding a sign that says 'I AM ARKANSAS FOLKLIFE'.
Green chalkboard with orange frame titled 'Who Is Arkansas Culture?' surrounded by Polaroid photos, containing colorful handwritten names and words related to Arkansas culture and people.
Two boys coloring on a large paper at a round table filled with crayons, books, and activity sheets while a woman watches.
Photographer taking a picture of three people posing at the Pryor Center for Arkansas Oral and Visual History with a colorful quilt backdrop.
Man wearing a cap seated on a chair playing a mouthbow musical instrument, holding a sign that says 'I AM Arkansas Folk Life' in front of a colorful patchwork quilt backdrop.
Group of people dancing outdoors near a gazebo with musicians playing instruments in the background during sunset.
Two women engaged in conversation at a table covered with a lace tablecloth, displaying art and informational materials against a brick wall in a well-lit entryway.
Two musicians playing string instruments on a stage decorated with pumpkins and autumn leaves, while a cameraman films from the audience.
A person in a colorful, detailed traditional costume walking and holding hands with a smiling woman in black dress and boots outdoors.
A group of six people standing around a table with a large sheet of paper, engaged in discussion and writing in an indoor setting with brick pillars and wooden floors.
Impact

Your support brings Arkansas folk traditions to life

Volunteers staff the stages and keep the festival running. Street team ambassadors reach thousands. Partners and sponsors make it all possible. Together, we preserve what matters and build community that lasts.

Ways to Support

Four paths to help

Pick the role that fits your time and talents

Work the festival

Work festival grounds, manage stages, coordinate food and craft areas

Support

Join the group of people who make this festival happen. There are many levels of sponsorship to choose from.

Join the Street Team

Reach thousands in your community with our toolkit and talking points

Spread the word

Grow the online footprint of the festival through your own social network.

Process

Three simple steps

From interest to action in minutes

One

Choose your role

Decide if you want to volunteer, join the street team, or explore partnership opportunities.

Two

Sign up online

Fill out the form with your availability and preferences. Takes just a few minutes.

Three

Join us and make it real

We'll send details, answer questions, and get you ready for the festival.

“The three days I spent helping at the festival reminded me why community matters. I met people from every corner of Arkansas, and we all left knowing we'd built something real together.”

Sarah Mitchell
Volunteer, 2024

Questions

Everything you need to know about getting involved

What shifts are available?

We need help across all three days, June 26 through 28. Shifts range from two to six hours, covering setup, stage support, food coordination, and breakdown. We will work with you to schedule the best fit with your availability.

Do I need experience?

No experience required. We train everyone on the job. Whether you've volunteered before or this is your first time, we'll put you where you're needed most.

Is there a minimum age?

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Younger people can participate with a parent or guardian present. We welcome families who want to work together.

What should I bring?

Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. We provide a volunteer t-shirt and meals during your shift. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for outdoor work.

Can I volunteer with friends?

Absolutely. Sign up together and we'll try to keep your group on the same shift. It makes the work easier and more fun when you’re with people you know.

How do I join the street team?

Visit our Street Team page to download the toolkit and sign up. We'll send you social media graphics, talking points, and everything else you need to spread the word in your community.

What if I can't make all three days?

One shift is enough. We need people throughout the weekend, and every hand makes a difference. Sign up for whatever time you have available.

Will I get a parking pass?

Yes. All volunteers receive a parking pass for the festival grounds. We'll send it with your confirmation email before the festival.

Can I bring my family to volunteer?

Yes. Families are welcome. We have roles suitable for different ages and abilities. Sign up together and let us know the ages of any young volunteers.

Still have questions?

Reach out to our volunteer coordinator

Ready to help build this festival?

Find information about volunteering or getting involved