WHAT IS SH’BUILD? Sh’Build is the pre-festival team that transforms the Lookout Arts Quarry into a vibrant gathering space for hundreds of artists, performers, and attendees. From trails and tents to art installations and infrastructure, it’s a creative and laborious adventure.
WHAT IS SH’STRIKE? Sh’Strike is the post-festival team that lovingly restores the land. You’ll help take down structures, collect hay bales from the derby, and gather trash and lost & found items. It’s the art of leaving no trace — and we take it seriously.
KEY 2025 DATES
- Sh'Build Buckstop Orientation August 24th 10 am @ the Kitchen terrace
- Sh’Build: August 25–27. Volunteer Orientation August 25th 10 am @ the Kitchen terrace
- Overtime: August 28
- Sh’Strike: August 28 & September 1–2. Volunteer Orientation August 28th 10 am @ the Kitchen terrace
- Note: These are invitation-only worksites.
VOLUNTEER PERKS
- 3 Full Days = 1 Festival Pass + meals while working.
- 1 Overtime Day = 1 Festival Parking Pass or 5 Festival Meal Tickets.
- Festival Wristbands distributed at Thursday dinner – No box office lines on Friday!
Kitchen and Meals
- Meals and beverages are provided during Sh'Build but not during the festival so please plan ahead and bring food for yourself.
- Dish shifts are assigned and required.
- We’ve recorded your allergies and common dietary restrictions from your application the kitchen will accommodate you to its best ability.
- Bring extra food if you have specialized dietary needs or want snacks
What to bring
- A full mess kit — the kitchen does not provide cups, plates, bowls, forks etc.
- Refillable water bottles — one for water, one for electrolyte blends that we will provide.
- Food-storage containers — leftovers abound and make great late night snacks.
- Gloves, safety glasses, and boots or closed-toe shoes.
- Long sleeves, pants, and clothing layers (hot days, cool nights).
- Sun hat, bandana, mineral-based sunscreen, and towels.
- Swimwear — nudity is allowed only in the quarry area (on the dock or while swimming).
- No synthetic sunscreen in the Quarry please.
- Rain gear — it’s the PNW we work through the rain.
- Specialized tools (power tools, saws, etc.) if available.
- If bringing tools, mark with tape and your name.
CAMPING & FACILITIES
- Free camping — first come, first served.
- You may arrive the evening (after 7 pm) before orientation and set up your campsite.
- Quiet & family zones available.
- Porta-potties on site.
- Designated fire pits only (burn ban dependent).
- Camp stoves allowed.
- Cell service is unreliable — plan ahead.
- Electricity is limited – bring batteries and charging packs.
- A phone charging station will be provided.
- Filtered water available at designated stations – bring large containers for your camp.
TEAMS & PROJECTS
- Teams are assigned each morning during the meeting. If a task isn’t a good fit, request to switch teams during the next meal break.
- Daily teams: landscaping, construction, campground, tents & infrastructure, rigging and hand-painted signs.
- Dish shifts (30-60 min) will be assigned in advance and will occur after each meal.
- Artists and stage designers may also request help on special projects throughout the week.
SAFETY GUIDELINES
- No solo ladder climbs or forest work alone
- Buckstops carry radios and first aid kits
- Allergic to bees or wasps? Request a bee-free zone
- Power tools: No use while intoxicated — period. Violations mean removal from the job site and loss of volunteer hours
CHILDREN & PETS
- Children are our future and are welcome onsite, but we do not provide childcare. Plan accordingly. Contact the coordinator with any questions.
- No pets allowed.
- Leashed service dogs are welcome.
- Dogs are not allowed to swim in the quarry.
TRANSPORTATION & PARKING
- Festival parking passes are not included and supplies are limited — carpool when possible.
- Coordinate rides on the Sh’Bang! Facebook page
- Sh'Build parking is in the lot near the pirate ship and ends on Thursday. Vehicles will be moved off-site or to festival parking by the end of the day. You must purchase a festival parking pass to keep your vehicle on-site during the festival.
COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS
Code of Conduct: We strive for an inclusive, loving, and welcoming space. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated — including racism, ableism, sexism, queerphobia, transphobia, fatphobia, xenophobia, religious intolerance, ageism, and classism. Be an ally: speak up, listen deeply, own your impact, and stay open to feedback.
Accountability: We have an incident reporting system in place for all volunteers. Reports are handled with care and may lead to a collaborative conflict resolution process when appropriate. Our leadership team is trained in de-escalation, peer mediation, and conflict resolution. You can bring concerns to any Buckstop or coordinator
Consent Culture: Ask before touching or entering someone’s space. Always get permission before taking someone’s photo, unless you have been hired by the festival. Consent must be enthusiastic, informed, and sober. No = no. Maybe = no or not right now. Consent may be withdrawn at any time.