Activate Arts Alberta

Volunteer Application

Ice on Whyte is back at McIntyre Park again running from Jan 27-29, 2023! You will notice some changes. The festival runs for three days this year, with free admission, Chippers access by donation, fire pits, hot chocolate, an ice slide for children, and carving demonstrations and displays. 

The International Carving Competition portion of the festival is back and has moved to the Ice District Plaza with carvers working on their creations from Jan. 24-26, 2023, and People's Choice voting beginning on the 27th.

Our central volunteer check-in is at the Volunteer Dining Car located in the parking lot between the alley and the Walterdale Theatre. This is a winter festival so it's important to come well prepared for the weather, but don't worry, we work toward having enough volunteers to take warming breaks.  

In short, there are few changes, but it's still the magical community event we've come to love. YOU are a key component in supporting the activities, and creating a positive visitor experience – let's make some Ice on Whyte magic together!

Volunteer Opportunities

Chippers: This area is popular and the station where we need the most help. We clear way ice shavings after each participant volunteers help get participants set up at a station with tools and template and share tips for how to use them. There is often a lineup, so we monitor that and engage with patrons. After a patron finishes their creation we encourage them to add it to the sculpture garden. This area always has a knowledgeable staff member as part of the team.

Fire Pits: Volunteers on this shift are tasked with keeping the fire pits going, stocking the wood pile, and keeping the areas orderly between patron groups.

Ambassadors: We'll have a tent near the Chippers area that will serve as an info site, as well as a Chipper donation collection. There will be a rubber floor and heaters to help take the edge off the cold, but you will still need to take care to dress for the weather.

Hot Chocolate: We sell hot chocolate! This takes place in a tent that will be attached to the Ambassador tent, also with insulated flooring and heaters.

Questions? You can email me at: volunteer@iceonwhyte.ca

Sign up to volunteer here