Manchester Histories Festival 2026 | Volunteer With Us

We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join us in bringing this year's edition of Manchester Histories Festival to life. Taking place 4–6 June 2026, the festival will once again animate Manchester Central Library and surrounding spaces with ideas, stories, creativity, and conversation. 

As we approach Manchester Histories Festival 2026, we’re opening applications to join this year’s volunteer team. This is your chance to get involved in one of Greater Manchester’s most distinctive cultural celebrations, meet new people, gain experience, and play an important role in helping audiences, artists, and participants feel welcomed and supported throughout the festival.

We’re looking for volunteers to support a range of roles, including:

  • Event Assistant 
  • Welcome Desk 
  • Artist Liaison 
  • Operations Support
  • Evaluation 

Whether you enjoy meeting people, helping things run smoothly behind the scenes, or being part of a busy and inspiring event environment, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re looking for people who are friendly, reliable, proactive, and welcoming, with an interest in history, culture, heritage, events or community activity. You don’t need to have volunteering experience to apply for these roles—what matters most is your enthusiasm, your willingness to help, and your commitment to being part of the team.

Volunteering with Manchester Histories Festival is a fantastic opportunity to:

  • Be a part of a major cultural event
  • Build confidence and experience
  • Meet artists, audiences, and fellow volunteers
  • Support the sharing of Greater Manchester’s stories and histories
  • Contribute to a festival that celebrates people, place, and civic pride

HOW TO APPLY

To express your interest, please email abigail@manchesterhistories.co.uk by Friday 1st May 2026 with a short note explaining:

  • Why you’d like to volunteer with Manchester Histories Festival 2026
  • Which role(s) interest you most
  • Your availability across 4–6 June 2026
  • Any relevant experience, skills or access requirements you’d like us to know about

As we have a limited number of 25 volunteer places available, we may not be able to offer a role to everyone who applies. We’ll be putting together a balanced volunteer team across the festival, taking into account people’s interests, availability, and the needs of the event.

We may invite some applicants for a short informal chat before confirming places. All selected volunteers will be invited to attend an induction session before the festival, where we’ll share more information about the event, the different roles, what to expect on the day, and everything you need to feel prepared and confident.

Come and be part of Manchester Histories Festival 2026 — and help us create an inspiring, welcoming, and memorable experience for all.