Get Involved!

The “OMATSURI – Calgary Japanese Festival” wouldn’t exist without our dedicated and hardworking team of volunteers. We are currently recruiting volunteers (18+) for our 2026 Festival to be held on July17th & 18th at Max Bell Centre and hope you will consider joining our team.

We welcome all volunteers regardless of background and invite you to “Get Involved” with this annual celebration of Japanese culture.

Without the help of generous, community minded people such as yourself, we would not be able to put on this terrific event each year. We greatly appreciate all that you do and hope you enjoy your experience!

Event Details:

• Location:  Max Bell Centre (1001 Barlow Trail S.E. Calgary, AB)
• Date: Friday, July 17th, 2026   5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Date: Saturday, July 18th, 2026   10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Volunteer Information:

We understand circumstances may arise which could prevent you from fulfilling your volunteer responsibilities. If such a situation should occur, we would appreciate as much notice as possible.

Volunteer Orientation will be held on Thursday, July 16th @ 7:00 PM at Max Bell Centre.  Please do your best to attend this session as we will be providing valuable information for our teams.  Mandatory waivers must be signed and volunteer T-shirts will be distributed that evening.

Volunteer Shifts may vary according to your teams need.

The event will go on rain or shine.  Please dress appropriately for the weather as the event has an outside venue.

Please arrive a few minutes early for your shift, if you are unable to start your shift at the specified time, please talk to your group leader to make alternate arrangements.

All volunteers must sign a Release of Liability and Waiver of Claim form prior to starting any work for “Omatsuri”.

Kids’ zone volunteers will be asked to complete the Police information and Vulnerable sector check. Information and Fee reimbursement will be coordinated with the team leader.

Volunteers are given free entrance for both festival days, a t-shirt and refreshment on the day of the event.  The festival shall not be held responsible for any lost or stolen items, please leave your valuables at home.

Due to ALCB regulations, Volunteers are prohibited from purchasing or partaking in the consumption of alcohol during the festival, even if your shift is over.

Please sign up via this link if you would like to apply for the volunteer