Volunteer at Istok
Be the Heart of the Festival
Istok Retreat Festival is built by people who care deeply — about community, wellbeing, and the magic that happens when humans gather intentionally. Join us as a volunteer and help create something truly special.
Why Volunteer
More than helping out — it's a calling
Volunteering at Istok means becoming part of the team that makes healing, creativity, and connection possible. You give your time; we welcome you into a meaningful, supportive community.
Full Festival Access
Volunteers receive festival access while helping create the atmosphere, flow, and care that make the weekend possible for everyone attending.
Deep Community
Work alongside a warm, international team of like-minded people and become part of the heart of the festival.
Meaningful Experience
Gain hands-on experience in event support, guest care, setup and breakdown, and holding space in a wellbeing-led environment.
Volunteer Roles
Find your place in the team
Current volunteer roles include entrance support, setup and breakdown, zone hosting for spaces like the sauna, sound circle and women’s circles, plus general festival support.
Entrance
Support arrivals, check people in, and help create a calm and welcoming first impression.
Front of HouseSetup & Breakdown
Help prepare the festival site before opening and support pack-down once the event finishes.
Hands-OnZone Hosting
Hold and support dedicated spaces such as the sauna, sound circle, women’s circles, and other festival zones.
Space HoldingGeneral Festival Support
Float where needed, help guests, and support the smooth running of the festival across the weekend.
Flexible RoleImportant to Know
Before you apply
We want everyone to arrive feeling informed, supported, and excited for the experience ahead. Here are a few practical details to help you prepare well and enjoy the festival more fully.
- Bring your own tent
Volunteers camp on site, so please bring your own tent and everything you need to stay comfortably for the weekend.
- Food options on site
There will be food stalls on site, and an outdoor kitchen will also be available for volunteers to use.
- Facilities for your stay
Hot showers and toilets will be available on site throughout the festival.
- Volunteer essentials
You’ll receive a branded staff T-shirt, and teas plus light snacks will be available in certain zones during the festival.
How It Works
Four simple steps to joining the team
Apply
Complete the volunteer application form online.
We Review
Your team reviews applications and matches people to the most suitable support roles.
Get the Details
Successful volunteers receive the next steps, role information, and any briefing notes.
Arrive Prepared
Bring your tent, organise your own food, and arrive ready to support the festival.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What food options are available for volunteers?
There will be food stalls on site, and volunteers will also have access to an outdoor kitchen they can use. Teas and light snacks will be available in certain zones as well.
Where do volunteers stay?
Volunteers camp on site and need to bring their own tent and camping setup. Hot showers and toilets will be available for everyone staying on site.
What do volunteers receive?
Volunteers receive festival access, a branded staff T-shirt, and support on site including access to showers, toilets, and tea and light snacks in certain zones.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted through the official Google Form linked on this page. It’s a simple way for us to gather all the key details and match volunteers to the right roles.
Apply Now
Ready to join the Istok volunteer team?
Use the official volunteer application form to submit your details. It includes fields for full name, email, phone number, and T-shirt size.
The official form is titled “ISTOK Retreat Festival – Volunteer Application” and notes that volunteers help with entrance, setup and breakdown, zone hosting, and general festival support, and that accommodation and food are not provided.[page:1]
This button links directly to your live Google Form.[page:1]