Volunteers wanted for Luton’s biggest birthday celebration

People across Luton are being encouraged to sign up as volunteers for one of the town’s biggest-ever celebrations, with organisers seeking enthusiastic residents to help bring the two concerts to life at Stockwood Park this September. 

Organised as part of Luton 150, the events will take place on 12 and 13 September 2026 and are expected to attract thousands of visitors celebrating the town’s 150th anniversary. Volunteers, known as Luton Rising Festival Makers, will play a key role in welcoming visitors, supporting activities and ensuring the events run smoothly. 

A range of volunteer roles are available, including event stewards and marshals, welcome and information volunteers, wayfinding and activity support, accessibility support roles, and set-up and take-down crews. 

No previous experience is required, and all volunteers will receive training and briefings, including guidance on customer service, event safety and their specific responsibilities. Organisers are also encouraging previous event volunteers to sign up and be part of this landmark celebration. 

As a thank you for their support, volunteers will receive free tickets to the events, as well as the opportunity to gain new skills, build confidence and be part of a memorable community occasion.

The Luton Rising Festival Makers programme builds on the success of the volunteer team created for BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in 2024. More than 280 Festival Makers supported visitors throughout the event, helping to welcome thousands of music fans to the town and playing a vital role in the festival's success.

Feedback from the event showed that volunteers valued the opportunity to showcase Luton in a positive light, while visitors praised the warm welcome they received. The programme helped create a sense of community pride and demonstrated the important role volunteers play in delivering major events.

Councillor Basit Mahmood, portfolio holder for inclusive growth and town centre regeneration, said: “As we celebrate Luton’s 150th anniversary, we’re looking for another team of enthusiastic volunteers to help create a welcoming atmosphere, support visitors and play an important role in this historic celebration. Becoming a Festival Maker is a chance to gain new skills, meet new people and be part of an unforgettable moment in our town’s history.”

Councillor Javeria Hussain, vice-chair of Luton Rising, said: “We saw first-hand at BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in 2024 how our Luton Rising Festival Makers helped create an outstanding experience for visitors and became fantastic ambassadors for our town. More than 280 volunteers played a vital role in welcoming festival-goers to Luton, and the feedback we received highlighted the pride they felt in showcasing the town in a positive light. The warmth, enthusiasm and community spirit they brought helped make the event such a success.”

Training sessions will take place during August and early September ahead of the events, with support provided throughout the volunteering experience. 

Anyone interested in becoming a Luton Rising Festival Maker can register their interest via the Step Forward Luton website.