Are you interested in volunteering for the Monterey Jazz Festival? We would love to have you join us! We hope that any question you have will be answered below, and if not, you can email volunteers@montereyjazzfestival.org for more information.
The application process is simple and easy. We will accept as many volunteers as we need for each area available. Please continue reading for some FAQ answers:
When are applications available?
Applications will be available beginning March 15 – August 15. No applications will be taken after August 15.
When and where is the festival this year?
The festival dates are Friday, September 22 through Sunday, September 24, 2023.
The festival location is the Monterey County Fairgrounds, 2000 Fairground Rd, Monterey, CA 93940.
When will we know if we have been accepted to volunteer?
Once applications close, you will receive an email with further instructions and information.
What are the schedules like?
In most areas the schedules are 4-5 hours in length from gates open to gates close. Some may be longer depending on the need.
Can I work the week before the festival?
Of course! We are always looking for people to assist us in preparing for the weekend. Those options are available on the application.
I only want to usher in the main arena – is that possible?
We assign all ticketing operations people where they are needed. Ushering, gate admissions, crowd control, etc. are all part of ticketing operations. We do need lots of people in all of those areas – so if you are flexible, you might end up in the arena as an usher for a shift.
How do I know where I will be assigned?
You will receive an email with the schedule and location of where you have been assigned. Keep in mind, the more flexible you can be, the more locations you might get to experience.
Is there training involved?
Yes, there is a general training that is completed through zoom and then each area manager will provide more information once you arrive on site.
Will we be able to walk through the festival grounds to get our bearings before the festival?
We will schedule a walk-through of the grounds the weekend before the festival. The exact date and time will be sent after September 1st.
Do we get t-shirts?
We have been fortunate to be able to provide shirts for our volunteers, which is why it is important on your application that you provide a shirt size.
Can I see a show in the Main Arena?
Unless you have purchased a ticket for the arena, or are working in the arena, you cannot enter the arena.
Can I see any shows?
Absolutely! You have access to the grounds and the 4 stages available there for the day you work.
How will people know I am a volunteer?
The shirt that you receive is specific to volunteers, staff, and artists so you will stand out.
You will also receive a daily wristband, you will get a new wristband each day you work.
Where do I check in?
Check-in through Gate 6 and up the road to the Volunteer Hut across from the RV lot.
Where do I park?
There is street parking all over the area, but please be considerate of the neighbors.
We also offer a shuttle from Monterey Peninsula College (MPS) for a fee. Shuttles run every 10 minutes, but do stop running 30 minutes after the last show ends.
We cannot supply parking for our volunteers.
Hopefully, this has answered some questions. If you have additional questions or questions about the application process please email volunteers@montereyjazzfestival.org
