Cantrip is one of the bands performing at the Chandler Center for the Arts' New World Festival. More than 100 volunteers are needed to help at the annual event. (Courtesy photograph)
Cantrip is one of the bands performing at the Chandler Center for the Arts' New World Festival. More than 100 volunteers are needed to help at the annual event. (Courtesy photograph)

Randolph — On Sunday, Sept. 2 the streets in downtown Randolph will come alive with music from dozens of acts, brought together thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers.

The New World Festival highlights music from New England, Canada and Great Britain, with about 70 musical groups performing over the course of the day. To run the festival, the Chandler Center for the Arts needs about 150 volunteers to help with all facets of the event, from set up the day before, to ticket sales and monitoring the stage entrances, said Yasi Zeichner, volunteer coordinator for the festival.

In exchange for three hours of work, music lovers get free admission to the festival, which normally costs $44. 

“Volunteering is a wonderful chance to be part of a community effort in helping this festival take place,” Zeichner said.

The festival runs from noon until 11 p.m., with shows on five stages and a variety of other forms of entertainment, all of which requires volunteer hours to set up. 

“The New World Festival is an incredible extravaganza of music from Celtic and French Canadian traditions,” Zeichner said. “Not only are there numerous concerts, the festival also features music workshops, a dance tent for social dances, a family area with kids activities, and food and drink provided by local chefs and breweries.”

Zeichner is specifically looking for someone to help coordinate trash and recycling efforts throughout the day. However, she stressed that there are plenty of volunteer opportunities available for all skill sets — even at the last minute. 

“We need over 100 volunteers to make this festival happen, so even if it’s the day before the festival, and you think no more volunteers are necessary, think again,” she said. “There is nearly always something for an extra volunteer to do.”

Editor’s note: People who are interesting in volunteering should contact Zeichner at nwfvolunteer@chandler-arts.org or by calling 802-485-9242 during the evenings. More information about the festival is available at www.newworldfestival.com.