Producing a film festival is a PEOPLE business—including hosts and guests of the festival. In our dealings with people, we tend to encounter two interesting trends.

Filmgoers can easily rattle off their favorite films, directors, and actors and they love to play film critic. They like to be the first in their social circle to see a new movie and share their opinion of an up-and-coming talent. Talking about movies with family and friends is as much fun as going to the movies.

But when it comes to film festivals, people want a little guidance. They want to understand how it all works. They’re not sure how to connect with the festival experience. All too often they assume it’s just for the artistic crowd or students pursuing film degrees.

One of the best ways to “fest” is to volunteer. You just sign up, and you’re a festival insider. You can volunteer as a greeter, ticket taker, or merchandise sales person, and there are other opportunities for involvement. If you have skill as a photographer, or a videographer, a media specialist, or an event stager, we’d love to meet you! We are looking for people qualified to serve as guides and transporters for our visiting filmmakers. The list goes on.

From April 5th through the 8th, there are a host of volunteer activities to connect with—from Local Filmmakers Day to the Opening Gala, Film Screenings and Panel Discussions, Mixers, the Youth Film Festival, the “Best Of” screenings, and the closing PJIFF Awards Ceremony. Check us out at www.pjiff.org to see what speaks to you! Email our Volunteer team at volunteer@pjiff.org.

See you there!!!

Top photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash