Volunteer at the Winterhaven Festival of Lights

Be a part of the magic that brings joy to over 200,000 people each year.

The Winterhaven Festival of Lights is a Southern Arizona tradition built on community spirit and neighborly generosity—and we couldn’t do it without the support of volunteers like you. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, lending a hand at Winterhaven is one of the most rewarding ways to give back this holiday season.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering at Winterhaven means more than helping with logistics—it means becoming a part of a legacy. As a completely volunteer-run, nonprofit celebration, every shift filled helps us raise funds for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, keep the event free and open to all, and ensure a safe, joyful experience for thousands of visitors.

Volunteer Online at: https://saaca.formstack.com/forms/2025_winterhaven_festival_of_lights_volunteer_registration

Volunteer Dates & Opportunities

Key Shifts Include:

Lighting String Testing Party
Saturday, November 22 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Cox Communications Setup Day
Saturday, December 6 | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Nightly Info & First Aid Tent
December 13–27 | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Choose your date!)

Festival Teardown & Cleanup
Saturday, January 10, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Volunteer Signup

Shifts

Select One or More shifts you are interested in serving
Light Stringing Party
Job Description: Help untangle, test, and organize light strands to prepare for setup day. Volunteers will assist with plugging in lights, checking for dead bulbs, labeling functioning strands, and helping sort materials for installation. Light snacks and coffee provided. Indoor and outdoor work.
Cox Communications Lighting Setup Day
Job Description: Assist the setup crew with light hanging, sign placement, carrying décor, and general neighborhood preparation. You may be assigned to teams with ladder safety duties or as runners for supplies. Some moderate lifting required. Great for groups and service teams.
Information & First Aid Tent
Location: Middle Island, Winterhaven Neighborhood Job Description: Volunteers will staff the official Information & First Aid Tent. Responsibilities include handing out maps, answering questions, assisting with QR code donation stations, and responding to lost and found inquiries. Basic first aid support (non-medical) may include water, bandages, and radioing security if needed. First Aid/CPR training is preferred but not required. You will be supported by a team lead on-site.
Festival Teardown Day
Job Description: Help us take down banners, signs, lights, and décor. Volunteers will assist with packing supplies, collecting signage, cleaning up the neighborhood, and helping restore yards and festival staging areas. Gloves and closed-toe shoes recommended. Light lifting required.