By Maggie Fitzgibbon
Do you love art and your community? Volunteers are needed for the 2026 Brockport Arts Festival (BAF) on August 8 and 9, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day. There are a multitude of opportunities for helping hands.
Behind every successful festival is a team of dedicated volunteers making the magic happen. From welcoming guests and assisting vendors to helping with setup, cleanup, and event coordination, volunteers play a vital role in creating an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Tasks range from assisting artists by allowing them to take breaks to helping with artists’ check-in, load-in, and load-out. Backstage and technical support is needed at the three music venues. Greeting visitors, answering questions, and providing directions, assistance with waste removal, recycling, sanitizing, cleaning, moving tables, and light maintenance is also needed.
It takes a village to put on the festival. Just ask Kathy Kristansen, BAF Committee and BISCO (Brockport Integrated Service Clubs Organization) member.
“The festival needs at least 50 volunteers filling various roles such as greeters, curb markers, hospitality ambassadors, set up, clean up, delivery of people and stuff, judges, [and to] assist vendors with arrival and departure,” Kristansen explained.
Festivals bring communities together, celebrate culture and creativity, and support local artists and businesses—but these events often rely heavily on volunteer support to run smoothly.
Volunteering at a festival is also rewarding for those who serve. It offers a chance to meet new people, support a meaningful community event, build new skills, and be part of something exciting. Many volunteers say they enjoy the camaraderie and sense of purpose as much as the event itself.
“Volunteers are important in that they are the eyes and ears of the festival. There are so many moving parts and so many places where people are needed. They are also the link to the vendors and attendees,” Kristansen said. “The volunteers provide hospitality, guidance, and support for our vendors and attendees.”
Right now, festival volunteers are needed more than ever. Whether someone can give a few hours or a full day, every contribution makes a difference. No experience is necessary—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to help.
When you volunteer, you’re not just filling a role—you’re helping create memories, strengthen community connections, and make the festival possible.
Be part of what makes this festival special. Scan the QR code or visit https://tinyurl.com/395d2wkf to sign up.
BISCO (Brockport Integrated Service Clubs Organization) is once again the sole owner and operator of the Brockport Arts Festival. This year marks the 30th year of the festival. Visit the festival to shop for a wonderful variety of art and crafts along Main Street and beautiful side streets. In the food court, find food to satisfy every craving and budget. Two stages, and maybe a third, will provide entertainment all weekend.
