FORT MCMURRAY–WinterPLAY is calling on residents to step behind the scenes this February, with several volunteer and fundraising opportunities available throughout the five‑day festival running February 20 to 24.
Community groups supporting a local non-profit can apply for paid fundraising shifts, earning $700 for every four-hour block worked by a team of seven. Volunteers may be asked to help keep the event grounds clean, monitor the community bonfire, supervise ice slides and sculptures, assist with horse‑drawn carriage rides and fireworks, or help run the welcome tent and pancake breakfast. Applications for these opportunities are open until February 9.
Local organizations also have a chance to get involved inside the WinterCHALET, where vendors are invited to set up snack, BBQ or café-style food stations. Up to three vendors per day will be selected to serve items like popcorn, hotdogs, muffins or coffee to festivalgoers. Interested commercial or social‑profit groups can apply until February 9, with successful applicants notified by February 12.
WinterPLAY is also seeking referees for the Shootout on the Snye pond hockey tournament, which runs the evening of February 20 through February 22. Referees will earn $25 per 35‑minute game, with duties including player verification, timekeeping and scorekeeping.
As preparations ramp up, access to the Snye will remain restricted until February 28. Residents needing access to the Clearwater River can use the Tom Weber or Raphael Cree boat launches.
WinterPLAY returns February 20 to 24 with favourites like pond hockey, horse‑drawn carriage rides, ice slides and a fireworks show. Information and applications for all volunteer roles can be found at rmwb.ca/WinterPLAY.
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