Here’s how you can attend Canada’s iconic electronic music and arts festival in B.C. for free

It comes as no surprise that the Shambhala Music Festival sold out in record time last September. But if you’re still looking to enjoy this year’s festival, you’re in luck. Canada’s premier electronic music and arts festival is currently hiring its crew for the 2026 festival season, and all staff and volunteer positions get to enjoy the festival for free.

It’s an iconic summertime tradition in B.C. for a reason, and it makes for one heck of a summer job!

With hundreds of performing artists, intricate sets and decor, and a beautiful natural backdrop of the Salmo River and mountains, the festival is well worth the trek.

According to their website, paid positions work daily or nightly throughout the festival in eight to 12-hour shifts. Those who apply can specify which teams they’d prefer to join, including roles at the beverage kiosks, retail, security, finance, hospitality (back of house), kitchen, stagekeepers, ice sales, tech support, ticket gate, and more.

Applicants should also specify whether they have work experience as managers or supervisors.

Staff and volunteer roles

The 2,800 staff, volunteers, and contractors are the heart of the festival, according to organizers.

“Shambhala Crew are the backbone of our festival,” organizers say on the website. “Together, we build, maintain, and celebrate the extraordinary experience that brings thousands of people together.”

In addition to free early entry, staff members get exclusive SMF swag, access to Crew Camping spots, and a minimum of one meal per shift.

Here are just some of the staff roles you can apply for right now:

• Baristas (Night Owl)
• Bathrooms (one of the highest-paid entry-level jobs onsite)
• Cashiers
• Customer Service
• Dispatch
• Hospitality (Back of House)
• Kitchen
• Retail
• Security
• Lodging Operations

Volunteer positions include pre-show positions like farm decoration and set-up roles, and showtime roles such as ticket gate roles and fire safety.

Most volunteer positions require a time commitment of 40 hours total, typically Monday to Friday, with some weekend positions available. All roles receive three meals per day.

Volunteers who complete their 40 hours prior to July 20, 2026, are given a GA electronic ticket with waived Early Entry fees, allowing them to leave the site once they finish their shifts and enjoy the festival as a guest once gates open to the public.

Those who are passionate about returning the farm to its natural beauty can apply for post-show opportunities, which will run from July 28 to 31, 2026.

Join the 2026 waitlist

Want to try your chance on the festival’s waitlist? You can add your name and info online to stay in the loop regarding GA ticket and lodging availability.

When: July 24 to 27, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: 7790 Highway 3, Salmo
Cost: Free GA for staff and volunteer positions, otherwise sold out for 2026

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