Carnival is powered by people like you

Dumfries & Galloway Carnival is powered by people. Every January, hundreds of volunteers, businesses, artists, schools and community groups come together to create a spectacular weekend of creativity, light and celebration. Whether you can spare an hour, a day or a week, your time can help bring Carnival to life.

Pledge your support now
Packed Dumfries town square at night, overhead view showing thousands of people at the Carnival

Every volunteer who gives a day helps create unforgettable moments like these — children lighting up with joy, creativity filling the streets, and a whole community coming together to celebrate.

Children in colourful carnival costumes with inflatable stars, full of joy at the Carnival
Overhead night shot of crowd with giant inflatable astronaut showing the massive scale of Dumfries & Galloway Carnival
Volunteer in Big Burns Supper top arranging cups from overhead, showing the behind-the-scenes work that makes Carnival happen

From making sure guests are welcomed and refreshed, to building sets and running logistics — Carnival volunteers are the engine behind everything you see. Whatever your skills, there’s a meaningful role waiting for you.

Give a Day to Carnival

Could you donate just one day of your time? We’re inviting individuals, businesses and community groups across Dumfries & Galloway to pledge a day to help build Carnival. From stewarding and making lanterns to welcoming visitors and supporting creative workshops, there’s a role for everyone.

Tell us when you’re free, what you enjoy, and we’ll match you with opportunities that fit your skills, interests and availability.

Fill in our form here:

Pledge your day now

Who can get involved?

Carnival belongs to everyone in Dumfries & Galloway. However you’re connected to the region, there’s a way for you to get stuck in.

EMPLOYEE

Join our volunteer crew, make new friends and learn new skills. Whether you’re 16 or 86, we’ll find a role that suits you.

Business

Rally your team for a staff volunteering day, support behind the scenes, or help with specialist skills like logistics, marketing or hospitality.

GROUPS

Bring your club, faith group, neighbourhood project or charity to Carnival. Host an activity, lead a section of the parade or support accessibility.

Schools

Get your pupils involved in creative workshops, lantern making and performances that celebrate the energy and imagination of young people.

Children in alien costumes with an inflatable robot in Dumfries town square

Artists & Creatives

Share your creativity through workshops, performances, installations or mentoring emerging artists as part of the Carnival programme.

Performer carrying a giant red lips costume prop, captured in blurred motion full of playful energy
Volunteer pinning Big Burns Supper bunting to a brick wall, decorating the venue ahead of the Carnival

Together, we light up winter

Every volunteer, every idea and every act of kindness adds another spark to Dumfries & Galloway Carnival. By giving a day, you help create moments of joy, connection and celebration that brighten the darkest months of the year.

Pledge a Day