Carnival Volunteer Positions
2025/2026 Season
For the 2025–2026 season, each family is required to complete one volunteer commitment per registered skater. This applies to all skaters enrolled in CanSkate, Intro to StarSkate (ITS), and StarSkate programs.
PLEASE NOTE: Families who have already signed up for a shift at our Casino event on March 8th and 9th have fulfilled their volunteer commitment for the season, and are not required to sign up again. However, additional help is always appreciated if you are willing and available.
This document provides an overview of each volunteer role. After sign-up, detailed instructions specific to your position will be sent by email. Please watch for this information and reach out with any questions once received.
Position Descriptions
50/50 Squares Sales
We need someone outgoing to sell 50/50 squares before the show, during breaks, and at intermission. Circulate with the grid, record names in available squares, collect payment, and keep funds organized and secure. Submit all money and the completed grid to the Treasurer prior to the finale. Lottery license arrangements will be coordinated with the Board.
Snack Bags for Skaters
Coordinate and assemble one peanut-free snack bag for each skater participating in Carnival (final numbers will be provided). Snacks are typically obtained through donations or local sponsorships. A DFSC donation request letter will be provided for use when approaching businesses. Creativity and community connections are welcome.
Completed snack bags must be delivered to the arena on Carnival Day between 12:00–1:30 PM for distribution to Group Parents.
Decorating Crew Leader
Oversee overall Carnival décor for the arena and ice, based on the approved theme set by the coaches and Board. This role focuses on the event’s visual atmosphere, not props for individual skating numbers.
Develop a décor plan, source or purchase materials within the approved budget, and coordinate Decorating Helpers. Typical décor includes large title lettering on the board curtains and themed elements placed around the arena.
Assign tasks for advance preparation and lead set-up on Carnival day. Retain receipts and submit expenses together for reimbursement. Work closely with the Carnival Rep throughout the process.
Decorating Helpers & Clean-Up Crew
Work under the Decorating Crew Leader to help prepare décor in advance, typically during Monday CanSkate sessions in the weeks leading up to Carnival. Tasks may include cutting, assembling, or organizing materials.
Assist with arena set-up on Carnival Day from 12:00–2:00 PM, including hanging curtains and placing decorations. Remain after the show to help take down decorations, remove carpets, and check dressing rooms and hallways for items left behind. Clean-up is a shared effort with additional volunteers and Board members.
Group Parent (1 per skating group)
Attend Dress Rehearsal (Wednesday, March 18th – arrive approx. 3:30 PM) and Carnival (Saturday, March 21st – arrive approx. 1:30 PM). You will be assigned a dressing room and are responsible for supervising all skaters in your group.
At Dress Rehearsal, assist with costumes, ensure skaters are ready for photos and rehearsal, and return all costume pieces to the Costume Coordinator afterward.
On Carnival Day, help skaters get dressed, keep your group together in the designated bleacher area, and ensure they are ready when called to the ice. Skaters must remain with you until the finale is complete. After the show, return all costumes to the Costume Coordinator.
This role requires strong organization and attentiveness. Group Parents work together and with the Ice Captain, coaches, and Carnival Rep to keep the event running smoothly.
A Vulnerable Sector Check is required for this position.
M.C. for Carnival
Serve as announcer for the Carnival, OR arrange for a family or community member to take on the role; coordination is your responsibility.
The M.C. will introduce each skating act using the provided script. Wording may be adjusted slightly for natural delivery and speaking style, but the core content must remain consistent.
Attendance at Dress Rehearsal on Wednesday, March 18th is required to review the script, receive microphone/equipment guidance, and run through the order of events. The M.C. will serve as announcer for the full duration of Carnival on Saturday, March 21st.
Music Player
Play music for both Dress Rehearsal on Wednesday, March 18th and Carnival on Saturday, March 21st. Plan to arrive early (approximately 3:45 PM on Wednesday and 1:30 PM on Saturday) to set up the club laptop and arena microphone and ensure all equipment is functioning properly.
Operate music throughout each event, following the established skate order and coach direction. Training and clear instructions will be provided in advance, and support will be available if needed.
Curtain Washing & Folding
Wash all Carnival curtains following the event. This is a significant task and involves multiple washing machine loads, as only a few panels fit per load.
Once clean and fully dry, curtains must be carefully folded and stored in a specific numbered order to ensure smooth set-up next season. The panels are long and easier to manage in a larger space, such as an open room or long hallway. An extra set of hands is recommended for folding.
Step-by-step instructions will be provided.
Commitment to the Policy
By signing this policy during registration, members accepted and agreed to the terms and acknowledge their responsibility in fulfilling the volunteer commitment required by the Didsbury Figure Skating Club for the 2025–2026 season.