Behind every great festival is a community of people who make it happen. Join hundreds of volunteers who help bring the Sacramento Hmong New Year to life every year — and become part of something bigger than yourself.
Volunteers are the heart of the Sacramento Hmong New Year. From the gates to the main stage, from the food court to the parking lot — none of it happens without people who show up to give their time.
When you volunteer with SHNY, you're not just helping run an event. You're helping preserve a culture, celebrate a community, and create memories for tens of thousands of attendees. You'll meet people you'd never otherwise meet, learn skills that translate to school and career, and walk away with stories that last a lifetime.
Whether you can give a single shift or commit to all three days, whether you're 14 years old or 84, whether you're Hmong yourself or simply love what this festival represents — there's a place for you here.
We staff dozens of areas across the festival. Tell us your interests on the application and we'll match you to a team — though we always welcome volunteers who are happy to go where they're needed most.
Help us build the festival from the ground up — booth assembly, signage, stage prep, and decorations. Then help break it all down on the final evening. Most physical of all roles.
Greet attendees, scan tickets, hand out programs, and answer questions. You're the first face people see — friendly, organized, and bilingual a plus (Hmong, Spanish, or English).
Stationed at the central info booth — directing attendees, helping with lost-and-found, coordinating with the medical team, and being a calm presence at the center of the action.
Support the dance, idol, and pageant competitions. Help with performer check-in, backstage flow, prop handling, and keeping the show running on time. Music or theater experience a plus.
Support our volleyball, soccer, cornhole, and break-dance tournaments. Score-keeping, court setup, water station management, bracket coordination, and athlete check-in.
Walk the grounds, share cultural context with attendees, and help newcomers understand traditions, foods, and the meaning behind the festival. Hmong heritage knowledge appreciated.
Direct vehicles, manage lot capacity, help with accessible parking, and keep traffic flowing safely. Outdoor role — high-visibility vests provided.
Help our 200+ vendors with load-in, restocking, troubleshooting, and breaks. Walk the marketplace, check in with booths, and be the bridge between vendors and event staff.
A dedicated track for high-school students earning service hours. Rotating roles, paired with adult mentors, and a great way to build leadership experience while connecting with culture.
Volunteering at SHNY isn't just about helping with an event — it's about being part of a community that shows up for itself, year after year, generation after generation.— The SHNY Volunteer Team
Volunteering is its own reward — but we believe in taking care of the people who take care of our festival.
Complimentary admission to all three days of the festival, on and off your shifts.
An exclusive SHNY 2026 volunteer shirt you'll only get from working the festival.
One meal voucher per shift, redeemable at participating food vendors across the festival.
Verified hours for school, employer, scholarship applications, or community service requirements.
An invitation to our post-festival appreciation gathering in December — food, photos, and recognition.
Volunteers who complete 12+ hours qualify for a personalized letter from the SHNY board.
Network with community leaders, local business owners, and other engaged volunteers from across the region.
Witness performances, ceremonies, and traditions from the inside — a perspective most attendees never see.
Fill out the sign-up form below. Tell us about your interests, availability, and any skills you'd like to share. Group sign-ups (clubs, churches, friend groups) are welcome — just note your group name.
Our volunteer coordinator reviews your application and reaches out with a proposed role and shift. You'll have a chance to confirm, swap, or request adjustments.
Attend a short virtual or in-person orientation (about 45 minutes) where you'll meet your team lead, learn the festival layout, and pick up any team-specific instructions.
Arrive 30 minutes before your shift. Check in at the Blue Gate, collect your shirt and meal voucher, and meet your team. Then go change the world for a few hours.
Hours are logged within 7 days. You'll receive documentation by email and an invitation to our December appreciation event.
Fill out the form below and our coordinator will be in touch within a week.
By clicking Register Now, you agree to be contacted by the SHNY volunteer team. We'll never share your information.