NOW CLOSED! Volunteer for MardiGrass

We're looking for friendly and positive people to assist with MardiGrass

Volunteers at Nimbin MardiGrass

Thank you for your interest in being part of MardiGrass!

21 April Update: Our Volunteers registration is now CLOSED!

If everyone who has already applied comes along, we have plenty of vollies now!

If you have been a Vollie before at MardiGrass, or are desperate to do it, you can call Caroline 0467 351 731 or Michael 0472 760 236.

We’re always keen to hear from friendly and positive people who want to assist cannabis law reform. MardiGrass wishes to extend a welcome and many thanks for those volunteers who donate their time during this event. Without you it could not happen! We appreciate your interest in helping us create an amazing MardiGrass experience for all participants over the weekend.

In 2026 MardiGrass is from Friday May 1st to Sunday May 3rd, but (as always) it really kicks off many weeks earlier.

We particularly need help with site preparation. So if you have those skills, we would love to hear from you NOW! The important thing is that we need volunteers BEFORE the event.

We will be accepting volunteers to set up camp and start preparing for the protest from Monday 20th of April 2026.

Come in and introduce yourself at the Hemp Bar or the Hemp Embassy, 51 Cullen Street, upon arrival in Nimbin!

Contact Us

FAQs for Volunteers

  • Q: What is MardiGrass?
    A: MardiGrass is an annual protestival held in Nimbin, Australia, advocating for cannabis law reform.
  • Q: Can I volunteer for MardiGrass?
    A: Yes, MardiGrass is always looking for friendly and positive people to assist with the event.
  • Q: What kind of volunteers does MardiGrass need?
    A: MardiGrass needs volunteers for various jobs, including site preparation, security, waste and recycling, cleaning, tickets and information, program, crew care, and post-event pack-down.
  • Q: When does MardiGrass 2026 take place?
    A: MardiGrass 2026 is from May 1st to May 3rd, but volunteers are needed for site preparation starting from Monday April 2oth. 420 Day!
  • Q: How do I apply to be a volunteer?
    A: You can apply by filling out the 2026 MardiGrass Volunteer Registration Form online
  • Q: What kind of skills are necessary to volunteer?
    A: Speaking reasonable English and a willingness to work are necessary. Volunteers with skills in site preparation, electrical, lighting and generators, firewood, crowd control and security, first aid, traffic management, waste and recycling, cleaning, program, crew care and cooking are especially welcome.
  • Q: Can I specify my preferences for volunteering?
    A: Yes, if you have volunteered in the past and want to be part of the same team, get in touch early and list your preference. However, most positions are usually filled well before MardiGrass, so it’s recommended to apply early.
  • Q: What should I bring if I volunteer?
    A: You should bring your own camping gear, including a tent and sleeping bag, your own bowl, plate, cup, cutlery, etc., clothes for working, including enclosed footwear and a hat, warm clothes for cool nights, and be prepared for wet weather.

Volunteer Camping & Facilities

  • Free camping space is provided behind the Nimbin Hemp Embassy with outdoor showers and toilets.

  • There is a volunteer chill out space including cooking and washing up facilities where you able to prepare your own meals if needed.

  • Nimbin Laundromat is available behind the Town Hall.

  • Unless you have somewhere else to park over the weekend, volunteers in campervans or similar will be required to camp at the Nimbin Showgrounds as there is no parking on site during the event from Thursday 30th April to Monday 4th May. If you’re camping at the Nimbin Showgrounds, volunteers have two options:

    • Either pay at a reduced volunteer rate of $20 per person per night,
    • Or you volunteer to help the Nimbin Showgrounds over the Mardigrass weekend in return for free camping.

Volunteer Expectations

  • Enjoy yourself! Thank you for your energy and positive attitude!

  • Be responsible for the energy you bring to the space. Remember you are representing MardiGrass at all times.

  • Volunteer for at least 4 hours per day though extra is always appreciated.

  • Arrive at your designated work area, approximately 15 minutes prior to commencement of your tasks.

  • Carry out your volunteer tasks as requested by MardiGrass coordinators.

  • Please remain sober and alert at all times when volunteering.

  • If applicable, make arrangements for your children to be cared for while you are on duty.

  • Know your help is invaluable, and each time the Cannabis plant thinks of you, it will be with smiles in its sticky green heart.