Ypsilanti Heritage Festival volunteer team ready to serve the community

Volunteer at the Festival

The Ypsilanti Heritage Festival exists because of volunteers. From its founding in 1979 through today, dedicated community members have donated their time, energy, and talents to ensure that this beloved celebration continues year after year.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering at the Heritage Festival offers rewards that go beyond the satisfaction of community service:

  • Make a Difference - Your contribution directly impacts the festival's success and the community's enjoyment
  • Meet New People - Work alongside fellow community members who share your commitment to Ypsilanti
  • Behind-the-Scenes Access - Experience the festival from a unique perspective
  • Build Skills - Develop organizational, communication, and leadership abilities
  • Create Memories - Some volunteers have been involved for decades, creating lifelong friendships
  • Give Back - Support a free festival that serves nearly 100,000 visitors annually

According to Volunteering in America, community festival volunteering ranks among the most impactful ways to contribute to local quality of life.

Volunteer Opportunities

Event Operations

Information booth staffing, directional assistance, setup and teardown crews, logistics support, first aid station assistance.

Entertainment Support

Stage management assistance, performer hospitality, sound and lighting helpers, schedule coordination.

Family and Youth Areas

Kids Corner activity leaders, craft tent assistants, face painters (training provided), family area supervision.

Vendor Support

Vendor check-in and assistance, arts and crafts area coordination, food court support.

Special Events

Parade coordination, historic tours support, beer garden assistance (21+), games and contests management.

Administrative Support

Pre-festival planning assistance, communications and social media, photography and documentation.

Time Commitments

We understand that volunteers have varying availability, and we work to accommodate different schedules:

  • Single Shift - As little as 3-4 hours during the festival weekend
  • Multiple Shifts - Cover several time blocks across the three days
  • Full Weekend - Dedicated volunteers who want to be deeply involved
  • Year-Round - Planning committee members who work throughout the year

Even a few hours of volunteer time makes a meaningful contribution to the festival's success.

Volunteer Requirements

Most volunteer positions are open to anyone who wants to help:

  • Minimum age varies by position (some require 18+, some welcome supervised youth)
  • Ability to stand or walk for extended periods for most roles
  • Friendly, helpful attitude toward festival visitors
  • Reliability and commitment to assigned shifts
  • Some positions may require background checks

Volunteer Benefits

While the greatest reward is contributing to your community, volunteers also receive:

  • Official volunteer t-shirt (with sufficient hours)
  • Complimentary refreshments during shifts
  • Volunteer appreciation recognition
  • References for community service requirements
  • The gratitude of the entire Heritage Festival community

How to Sign Up

Ready to join the team? Volunteer registration typically opens in the spring for the August festival. To express interest:

  1. Complete the volunteer interest form on our contact page
  2. Indicate your preferred volunteer areas and availability
  3. Attend volunteer orientation (if required for your position)
  4. Confirm your shift assignments
  5. Show up ready to make a difference!

The Heritage Festival is built on the simple but powerful idea that communities are stronger when people come together. By volunteering, you join a legacy of community members who have kept this tradition alive for more than 40 years. We hope you'll add your story to ours.