This Q&A with Carbondale Arts originated from Sol del Valle and has been translated for English readers.
What types of volunteer opportunities does Mountain Fair offer? (e.g., clean-up, food and drink service, wristband checkers, stage crew, etc.)
All of the above! There’s something for everyone and every skillset — set-up, breakdown, Peace Patrol, Cantina shifts, Green Team. All of the info is available at www.carbondalearts.com
Can you share a memorable story or learning experience from a past volunteer?
A similar story we hear often from many volunteers is that through volunteering at the fair they found some of their best friends, and lifelong relationships.
What are the key benefits of volunteering at Mountain Fair?
Mountain Fair was created by the community for the community. It’s a way of showing up for Carbondale and being part of this wonderful celebration. Many people say that volunteering at Mountain Fair is the way they feel the greatest sense of belonging and the most connected to the community.
How many hours are volunteers expected to commit?
Shifts start at two hours and go up from there.
What’s one of the biggest takeaways volunteers walk away with after the event?
I think people love Mountain Fair when they’ve been a part of creating it. We all work hard but we also play hard. We have a great time!
Are there any perks or incentives offered to volunteers? (e.g., t-shirts, food vouchers, backstage access)
Yes! There are lots of fun perks to volunteering at Mountain Fair. Just four hours of your time earns you the coveted “Friend of Fair” t-shirt and one raffle entry for two general admission tickets to the 2026 Fashion Show. Those who volunteer eight or more hours get backstage access.
What’s the process for signing up to volunteer?
It’s super easy. Just go to www.carbondalearts.com/mountain-fair
Is there a particular area where help is especially needed this year?
Environmental responsibility is a founding ethos of the Fair. While it’s hard to eliminate waste at such a big event, we try very hard to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible. We have an incredible Green Team who take on this big task, and we love to support them with as many volunteers as possible. We would love extra hands in this part of the Fair, and we also welcome support everywhere and anywhere else!
