Apply to Volunteer at Tico Time Bluegrass Festival

We’re excited to invite you to be part of the Tico Time Bluegrass Festival volunteer team. We have a variety of roles available, and each one plays a vital part in creating the magic of the festival.

Tico Time Bluegrass relies on passionate, dedicated volunteers like you who give their time and energy to help bring our vision to life. Volunteering isn’t just about helping out—it’s a chance to learn what it takes to support a music festival from the inside, gain valuable behind-the-scenes experience, and find your place in a community of like-minded music lovers. Many of our volunteers return year after year, building lasting friendships and becoming an integral part of the Tico Time Bluegrass family.

We value kindness and warmth in every role, as it helps create the welcoming, vibrant atmosphere our festival is known for. Shift placement is first-come, first-served, with priority given to returning volunteers.

This is more than just a volunteer position—it’s an opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, and contribute to a thriving community while experiencing Tico Time Bluegrass Festival in a whole new way.

5 STEPS TO COMPLETE:

  1. Fill in the application
  2. Purchase the volunteer ticket
  3. Show up for your shifts
  4. Have fun
  5. Get your refund

REQUIREMENTS:
Volunteers are required to work at least 12 hours prior to, during or after the festival; generally 2 shifts of 6 hours, or 3 shifts of 4 hours. You’ll need to purchase a ticket to the event, and will be reimbursed after completing all of your scheduled shifts. If you have any questions please check the FAQ below. If your answer is not there reach out to TicoTimeFestivals@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER ROLE DESCRIPTIONS

  • Parking/Greeter – You will direct all vehicles entering the venue to the box office, artist or staff check-in. You may also be placed to support vehicles arriving in parking/camping areas.
  • Green Team (trash and recycling) – This is a busy job that requires some lifting. You will empty full trash cans and replace can liners as required in areas in and around the venue and campgrounds. If you like to move and stay busy, this is the job for you.
  • Security  – This position may include using a radio and directing traffic across the bridge, or managing a specific area of the resort such as oversee the Magical Forest, Tamarindo Car Campground, or outlying area; patroling and keeping peace among the patrons.
  • Operations – You will work with the operations team, putting up tents, pulling cables, and getting dirty. This role is for stronger individuals who like to work with a motivated team of get-it-done kind of humans.
  • Box office  – You will meet and greet the public, scan tickets and exchange them for wristbands, sell tickets, check-in volunteers, answer questions, etc. Basic computer skills are a plus in this fast-paced area.
  • Build/setup  – You will help build the festival site prior to event, including stringing lights, hanging signs, spreading wood chips, fencing, and many other tasks. Physically demanding may involve working on a ladder, raking, shoveling, etc.
  • Strike/Teardown – You will help Strike the festival site, take down signs, remove fencing, and do many other tasks. Physically demanding may involve working on a ladder, raking, shoveling, etc.
  • Gate monitors  – You will greet entrants, check them for valid wristbands, and inspect backpacks and coolers for glass and alcohol. Setting a positive, friendly tone at this point of entry while working quickly and with a smile is critical.
  • Merchandise tent  – You will organize (straighten, fold, and display) merchandise, assist customers with selections, and make sales via cash and credit card terminals. Retail experience is a plus.
  • First Aid – Our all-volunteer first aid station is staffed by currently licensed RNs, EMTs, and physicians. Pls be as detailed as possible about your experience level if interested in this role.


VOLUNTEER FAQs

Q: What do I do when I arrive?

A: Arrive like all other attendees, bring a copy of your volunteer ticket printed or on your phone, then check in at the volunteer booth to confirm your presence and shift times and to ask any questions.

Q: Should I arrive at my shifts 10 minutes before my start time?

A: Yes, check-in 10 minutes before your start time prepared to work.

Q: What if I am no longer available or no longer wish to volunteer?

A: If your availability changes at any time, contact the volunteer coordinator ASAP! As we will be counting on you.

Q: How do I know if I have been accepted?

A: You will receive a confirmation email, text, or phone call from the volunteer coordinator no later than two weeks before the event.

Q: How many hours do I have to work for my pass?

A: For most positions, you will be required to work three 4-hour shifts in exchange for a 3-day festival pass.

Q: I’m a returning volunteer. Will I get to work the same job at the same time as last year?

A: We consider seniority and experience when scheduling shifts. Provide detailed comments in the application for optimal placement.

Q: Can my children accompany me in volunteering?

A: No. Your full attention is required during your scheduled volunteer shifts. They are welcome at the festival and in the campgrounds with proper supervision.

Q: Do you have any volunteer positions for kids under the age of 18?

A: No. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.

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