6 Festivals and Events in Canada You Should Volunteer at

By: Volunteer Success

Summer is almost over but the fun isn’t stopping anytime soon! The sun is still out, and the weather is still great, so get out there and experience what Canada still has to offer! Savor the remainder of summer by immersing yourself in different cultures and trying out new things! Here are the 6 festivals and events in Canada you won’t want to miss!


1. Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF)

The Ottawa International Animation Festival is one of the world’s leading animation events, and has provided screenings, workshops and entertainment for all since 1976. From September 20th – 24th , 2023, the OIAF will transform the ByTowne Cinema, the National Arts Centre, the Ottawa Art Gallery and many more venues in Ottawa into places where they celebrate and show appreciation for the art of animation. Volunteering at OIAF is a great way for people interested in animation to get involved with the animation industry and meet like-minded people. Volunteer roles range from airport greeter to wrecking crew. Volunteers who complete more than two shifts (8 hours in total) will get to keep their OIAF 2023 volunteer t-shirts, as well as earn a Volunteer Pass which gives access to most of the festival’s exciting events!

Love animation and live in Ottawa? Click Here to apply to be a volunteer!


2. StreetWater Music Festival (Owen Sound, ON)

Located in Grey Bruce, this year’s StreetWater Music Festival is extra special because it’s their 20th anniversary! From September 12th – 17th, you’ll be able to listen to the best musicians from Canada and beyond perform classical, jazz and contemporary music. Volunteers will work in 3 hours shifts and responsibilities include greeting attendees, handing out name badges and t-shirts, venue set up and teardown, wayfinding and much more. In return, volunteers will be able to enjoy free access to the show!

Love music and want to check out up and coming musicians? Click Here to apply to be a volunteer!


3. Airshow London Skydrive 

Voted the best airshow in North America, Airshow London Skydrive is back again this year at London International Airport in London Ontario! From September 8th – 10th, you’ll be able see amazing military aircraft up-close as well as fighter jets soaring through the skies. By volunteering at Airshow London Skydrive, you’ll be able to meet other aviation geeks as well as seasoned pilots and learn all about the lates and greatest in aviation technology! Volunteers will also acquire on-the-job experience as well as job-specific training once selected.

Interested in aviation? Click Here to apply to be a volunteer!


4. MS Bike – Gimli Manitoba

MS Bike is the largest fundraising cycling series in North America and it’s taking place this year in Manitoba from August 26th – 27th. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness as well as fundraise to help end multiple sclerosis. The event has already raised over $84,000 and is on track to raise even more! Because it’s such a large event, lots of volunteers are required to ensure it runs smoothly. Volunteer roles include site setup, check in, rest stop volunteer, route signage and food preparation. Volunteers will be able to gain valuable experience and skills, as well as earn a reference letter!

Live in Manitoba and want to help raise money to end multiple sclerosis? Click Here to apply to be a volunteer!


5. TAIWANfest (Vancouver, BC)

TAIWANfest has become one of the largest bilingual festivals in Canada, and it’s back again this year in Vancouver from September 2nd – 4th! The festival offers a wide range of activities such as special performances, exhibitions, and films. This year’s theme is all about exploring Taiwan’s Dutch colonial past and how it has shaped its identity and cultural traditions. Volunteer positions include event volunteer, stage manager, festival emcee and more!

Live in Vancouver and love Asian culture? Click Here to apply to be a volunteer!


6. Toronto International Buskerfest

The Toronto International Buskerfest is the largest street performer festival in North America and it’s back again this year with 100+ street performers doing mind-bending acts, performing music and much more to support Epilepsy Toronto. From September 1st – 4th, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best music and performances from street performers around the world while supporting a great cause! Volunteer positions include gate ambassadors, festival guides, epilepsy educators and much more!

Love street performances and want to support a great cause? Click Here to apply to be a volunteer!


Want to look for volunteer opportunities but don’t know where to start? Sign-up today with Volunteer Success and start looking for your next summer volunteer opportunity today! If you have any other questions, we’re here to help! Contact us at support@volunteersuccess.com


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