Large-scale volunteer drive to staff two days of free community concerts
Luton Borough Council is inviting residents to become Festival Makers for two major concerts at Stockwood Park on 12 and 13 September 2026, part of the town’s official Luton 150 anniversary programme. Organisers say the events — billed as Party in the Park and Proms in the Park — are expected to draw thousands of visitors and will require a substantial volunteer workforce to run safely and smoothly.
Roles, training and incentives for volunteers
The council has published a range of roles available to residents with no prior experience required. Volunteering opportunities include:
- Event stewards and marshals to help manage crowds and movement;
- Welcome and information volunteers to assist visitors on arrival;
- Wayfinding and activity support to guide guests and support programmed activities;
- Accessibility support to assist visitors with additional needs;
- Set-up and take-down crews to help prepare and clear event infrastructure.
All volunteers will receive training and briefings covering customer service and event safety, together with guidance specific to their assigned duties. The council emphasises that no previous event experience is necessary and that training will be provided.
Benefits and local context
As a thank-you, volunteers will receive free tickets for the concerts. The council highlights additional non-monetary benefits including the chance to gain new skills, build confidence and play an active role in a significant civic celebration.
The Festival Makers programme builds on the volunteer team that supported BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in 2024, when more than 280 Festival Makers helped welcome and guide visitors to the town. Feedback from that event is cited by organisers as evidence that a visible, well-briefed volunteer presence can shape visitors’ experience and promote community pride.
What this means for Luton residents
For local people, the volunteer drive presents both practical and civic opportunities. Practically, residents can access short-term roles that may add to their CVs or provide experience in event operations. Civic-wise, the scheme aims to involve communities directly in marking Luton’s 150th anniversary, encouraging a visible local presence at events expected to attract audiences from outside the borough.
| Event | Date | Location | Volunteer incentive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Party in the Park | 12 September 2026 | Stockwood Park | Free tickets + training |
| Proms in the Park | 13 September 2026 | Stockwood Park | Free tickets + training |
The council is also encouraging those who volunteered at previous large-scale events in Luton to rejoin the programme, underlining an effort to retain local experience and continuity in event delivery.
Residents interested in volunteering should contact Luton Borough Council for role descriptions, training dates and application details. With thousands expected at Stockwood Park over the two days, organisers say that a strong volunteer team will be central to ensuring the concerts run efficiently and safely.
