Working for Hay Festival

The festival is put together by hundreds of people, from building the site and producing the events to welcoming our guests and spreading the word. We're currently looking for Operations and Gardening Crew and volunteer stewards for Hay Festival 2026

Hay Festival 2026 - Operations Crew

We are currently recruiting for x2 positions in the Hay Festival Operations team to assist on the install of the Hay Festival.

We are looking for general labourers, no specific skills or knowledge required.

Applicants must be reliable, fit, outgoing and prepared to work as part of a team to undertake a diverse range of tasks as allocated, including

  • Assisting the Operations team on the final stages of the install of the festival
  • Building and setting out furniture 
  • Installing signage around the site
  • Setting up kitchen areas 

Working days will be 14th to 16th May and 18th - 21st May (inclusive)

Candidates must be prepared to work in all weather conditions (PPE provided) and ready to assist with tasks as needed.. A clean driving license and experience of driving a Luton van would be preferable. Good time-keeping necessary.

Pay rate: £12.80 per hour. Applicants will need to have their own accommodation and transport

For further information or to apply please send a current CV to Hannah on hannah@hayfestival.org  or call 01497 822 620

Hay Festival 2026 - Gardening Crew

We are currently recruiting for x 2 positions in the Hay Festival gardening team.  We are looking for general labourers, no specific gardening knowledge required. 

Applicants must be reliable, fit, outgoing and prepared to work as part of a team to undertake a diverse range of tasks as allocated, including:

  • Transporting and unloading a large amount of outdoor furniture 
  • Transportation of various plants and plant installations 
  • Ensuring the successful distribution and installations of a large number of plants and plant installations under the guidance of the lead garden designer 

Working days:

  • 13th, 14th, 15th May
  • 18th, 19th, 20th May
  • 1st & 2nd June

Candidates must be prepared to work in all weather conditions (PPE provided) and ready to assist with tasks as needed.. A clean driving license and experience of driving a Luton van would be preferable. Good time-keeping necessary

Pay rate: £12.80 per hour. Applicants will need to have their own accommodation and transport

For further information or to apply please send a current CV to Hannah on hannah@hayfestival.org  or call 01497 822 620

Hay Festival Stewards - 2026

Stewards are a vital part of Hay Festival. They greet all of our visitors warmly and enthusiastically, look after the safety of our audiences and support, guide and ensure that the festival runs smoothly throughout 11 very busy days.For more information and to apply please see the Stewards page