2026 RiverFest Volunteer Sign Up

It's hard to believe that we are already putting plans in place for RiverFest. To pull off a great show, we need your help! Choose a shift, invite a friend to choose one too, and join us for a wonderful, fun-filled weekend of connecting with community, all while supporting Occoquan.

There are tons of ways to be involved. We need hands helping with set up and break down, folks willing to be the "first faces of Occoquan" at the shuttle stops, vendor assistants who can relieve our hard working makers for a quick break, or creative and outgoing personalities that can help local kids explore Conservation Alley. Whatever position you choose, it makes a big difference in having a successful event!

A volunteer meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 3 at 6:30 PM at Town Hall. This meeting is a great way to meet new faces before you work with them, to be breifed on important safety procedures, and to hear any new information (as we are always evolving to make the show the best it can be, there are always changes to be updated on). The bonus is you can grab your volunteer t-shirt and a snack! We encourage you to attend.

Most shifts are 3 hours, and if you don’t see a shift that fits your schedule, feel free to reach out—we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. Please email: events@occoquanva.gov.

Thank you in advance for your time and support—we couldn’t do it without you!

All volunteers serving the Town are expected to uphold the following standards:

• Be Respectful – Treat all residents, staff, fellow volunteers, and visitors with courtesy, kindness, and professionalism.
• Be Reliable – Arrive on time, complete assigned duties, and notify your supervisor if you are unable to attend.
• Dress Appropriately – Wear attire suitable for your volunteer duties and maintain a clean, neat appearance.
• Use Social Media Responsibly – Do not post confidential information or make disparaging comments about the Town, its employees, or town residents.
• Photos - Photos may be taken during events and volunteer activities for promotion and posting on social media. Please inform your coordinator on the day you volunteer, if you do not wish to be photographed
• Maintain Confidentiality – Respect the privacy of individuals and do not share personal or sensitive information.
• Stay Safe – Follow all safety guidelines and report any hazards or incidents to your supervisor immediately.
• Avoid Conflicts of Interest – Do not use your volunteer role for personal gain or promote personal, political, or religious agendas.
• Follow Directions – Adhere to the instructions of staff and supervisors, and ask questions when unsure.
• Be a Positive Representative – Represent the Town in a positive light and contribute to a welcoming, inclusive environment.
• Report Misconduct – Promptly report any inappropriate behavior, harassment, or violations of this code to your supervisor or designated contact.

For any questions or to report any misconduct or violations of this code, please contact Town staff at events@occoquanva.gov.

Volunteers will ensure that each patron over the age of 13 that rides the shuttle pays the $10 round-trip shuttle fare upon drop off at the festival. This fare is good for both days of the festival.

Patrons will be able to prepay their shuttle fees but will need to show their digital receipt at the shuttle stop to enter the festival. Alternatively, patrons may scan the event QR code on their own devices to use credit at the gate. Cash is also accepted. No POS devices will be used at the shuttle stops.

Each patron receives a wristband allowing them into the show. The color of the wristband correlates with the shuttle stop color they will need to use. 

Shuttle Stop Locations:

Green Shuttle Stop: the end of the Footbridge by River Mill Park.

Yellow Shuttle Stop: the Rt 123 Bridge.

Purple Shuttle Stop: the corner of Washington and Commerce.

Volunteers are needed to assist vendors during the show. You could be asked to “booth sit” for breaks, vendors very much appreciate being cared for by our volunteers in this way. Volunteers will watch the booth to prevent theft and inform customers the vendor will return shortly, but will not conduct transactions on behalf of the vendor. You could also be used as a voice from vendor to town with various needs and things that need staff attention. You are also asked to ensure that food vendors have prices posted at all times.

Volunteers would be bright and bold to entice kids to get involved in crafts and activities. Young minds will explore how to be a conservationist in nature. They will have an activity passport to go from stop to stop collecting stamps. After they collect the stamps they can turn in their passports for an Occoquan sticker. Conservation Alley is located on Commerce Street.

Our Ticket Hub will be located at Mamie Davis Park and will check in people who are registered for the boat or kayak tours and direct them to the designated area to get their tour started!

Also assist with Duck Splash Ticket sales, answering questions and encouraging participation.

The last shift will also help gather rental supplies to return to Penguin Paddling.

Our volunteer coordinator will be provided with the volunteer list for the day, check in volunteers, and troubleshoot shifts as necessary.The information booth is where  patrons ask questions about the event. You will also share the many fun things happening in town all year long. This is an important role for reaching out to staff and police when necessary.

Our volunteer will set up breakfast, trouble shoot and restock as necessary, and greet vendors with a smile!

Vendor Load-in begins Friday night as we begin to bring vendors into town. Saturday morning set up continues with more loading in of vendors and helping staff set tables, tents, and chairs in River Mill Park, at locations along the streets, and at shuttle bus stops. Break down begins at 5:30pm on Sunday evening.

Thank you for your support of RiverFest! More information will come your way as we get closer to the show dates!

Do you love Occoquan as much as we do? The Town of Occoquan is building a group of passionate community members who want to volunteer and support our town. There are many volunteer opportunities beyond festivals, including event assistance, administrative tasks, and beautification efforts.

If you'd like to receive a list of our quarterly volunteer needs, simply click "yes" below to access the Occoquan Volunteer Team form.

For any questions, feel free to contact the Events Team at events@OccoquanVA.gov.