San Diego Scottish Highland Games

Highland Games
June 20-21, 2026

Highland Games June 20-21, 2026

Volunteer Registration

2026 Volunteer spots ARE NOW OPEN!

Want to help on the day of the event? We have many opportunities for volunteers to get involved, from event setup/break down, helping at the information booth, to working at the clans area– just to name a few.

You’ll get a free t-shirt, and free admission for the day of your shift.

If registrations are not yet open, please be sure to sign up on the Newsletter below as it is just for the Volunteer News list.

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Volunteer Roles Instructions

Download or View the Instructions Cheat Sheet Here, but please read the full description below.

This is a brief overview on how to scan a ticket from TicketSpice.You will only deal with cash or card payments, and can select “no receipt”. Disregard the rest of this video, as it will not apply to you.

Role Purpose

Gatemasters are the first point of contact for guests entering the San Diego Scottish Highland Games.

Your responsibilities include:

  • Verifying admission
  • Processing ticket sales
  • Scanning prepaid tickets
  • Answering basic guest questions
  • Helping guests enter the event safely and efficiently

Most Gatemasters will be assigned to a single station during their shift. However, all volunteers should review each station’s responsibilities in case they are reassigned.

Before Your Shift

  1. Arrive at the WEST GATE Volunteer Check-In area.
  2. Check in with the Volunteer Coordinator.
  3. Receive your volunteer T-shirt and any required materials.
  4. You will be directed to your assigned station and supervisor.
  5. Review any last-minute instructions before beginning your shift.
  6. If you are unsure where to go or who to report to, ask the Volunteer Coordinator for assistance.

Accepted Forms of Admission

The following forms of admission are accepted:

TicketSpice Ticket

  • Printed ticket with barcode
  • Mobile ticket displayed on a smartphone

Authorized Event Wristband

Examples include:

  • Vendors
  • Clan Representatives
  • Approved Participants
  • Other authorized guests

Will Call List

Guests whose names appear on an approved Will Call list may be admitted according to the instructions provided by the Gate Supervisor.

Lifetime Membership Card

Guests presenting a valid Lifetime Membership Card may be admitted.

Voucher Card

Guests presenting a valid voucher card may be admitted.

If you are unsure whether a ticket, wristband, card, or credential is valid, contact a supervisor before admitting the guest.

Station 1: Prepaid Ticket Scanning

Guests who purchased tickets online through TicketSpice may present a printed ticket or a mobile ticket.

Responsibilities

  1. Ask the guest to present their TicketSpice ticket.
  2. Scan the barcode using the provided device.
  3. Confirm the ticket is accepted.
  4. Direct the guest into the event.

If a Ticket Will Not Scan

  1. Attempt a second scan.
  2. Verify the guest is presenting the correct ticket.
  3. Contact a supervisor if assistance is needed.

Station 2: Ticket Sales

Guests without tickets may purchase admission at the gate.

Responsibilities

  1. Ask how many tickets are needed.
  2. Select the appropriate ticket type in Square.
  3. Add the ticket(s) to the cart.
  4. Complete payment.
  5. Direct the guest into the event.

Important

All sales, including cash transactions, should be entered into Square whenever possible to assist with attendance tracking and financial reporting.

Station 3: Mobile Ticket Purchase Assistance

Some guests may choose to purchase tickets on their phones while waiting in line.

Responsibilities

  1. Direct guests to the posted TicketSpice QR code.
  2. Explain that tickets may be purchased online using their mobile device.
  3. Once the purchase is complete, direct the guest to the Ticket Scanning Station.

Cash Handling

  • Never count money in public view.
  • Place excess cash into the designated cash envelopes.
  • Place completed cash envelopes into the designated collection container.
  • Contact Event Security if additional change or a cash pickup is needed.
  • Never announce cash pickups over the radio.

Security

  • Security personnel are responsible for cooler checks and prohibited item inspections.
  • Security personnel manage guest re-entry procedures.
  • If a guest disputes a security decision, refer them to Security or a Gate Supervisor.
  • Do not argue with guests.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • A ticket appears invalid.
  • A barcode will not scan after multiple attempts.
  • A guest disputes admission requirements.
  • A payment issue cannot be resolved.
  • You are unsure how to process a guest.
  • A guest becomes disruptive or aggressive.
  • You are unsure whether a wristband or credential is valid.

Remember

  • Be friendly.
  • Be patient.
  • Keep lines moving.
  • When in doubt, ask for help.

Download or View the Instructions Cheat Sheet Here, but please read the full description below.

You will only deal with cash or card payments, and can select “no receipt”. Disregard the rest of this video, as it will not apply to you.

Role Purpose

Bar Servers help provide a safe, friendly, and efficient experience for guests visiting the Beer Garden.

Your responsibilities may include:

  • Checking identification and issuing wristbands
  • Processing beverage sales
  • Pouring beer and other beverages
  • Answering basic guest questions
  • Maintaining a clean and organized work area

Most Bar Servers will be assigned to a single station during their shift. However, all volunteers should review each station’s responsibilities in case they are reassigned.

Before Your Shift

  1. Arrive at the WEST GATE Volunteer Check-In area.
  2. Check in with the Volunteer Coordinator.
  3. Receive your volunteer T-shirt and any required materials.
  4. You will be directed to your assigned station and supervisor.
  5. Review any last-minute instructions before beginning your shift.
  6. If you are unsure where to go or who to report to, ask the Volunteer Coordinator for assistance.

Important Rules

Wristband Required

Guests must have a valid event wristband before purchasing or receiving alcoholic beverages.

If a guest does not have a wristband, direct them to the ID Check Station.

Maximum Two Drinks

Guests may purchase a maximum of two alcoholic beverages per transaction.

Responsible Beverage Service

Supervisors have completed California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification and will provide guidance when needed.

If you have concerns about a guest, contact a supervisor immediately.

Do not attempt to make difficult alcohol service decisions on your own.

Station 1: ID Check & Wristbands

Guests must present valid identification before receiving a wristband.

Responsibilities

  1. Verify the guest presents a valid government-issued photo ID.
  2. Confirm the guest is of legal drinking age.
  3. Securely place the wristband on the guest.
  4. Direct the guest to the ordering line.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • An ID appears altered or suspicious.
  • You are unsure whether an ID is valid.
  • A guest becomes argumentative.
  • A guest appears intoxicated.

Station 2: Cashier

Cashiers process beverage purchases using the Square Point of Sale system.

Responsibilities

  1. Confirm the guest has a wristband.
  2. Ask what beverages the guest would like to purchase.
  3. Select the appropriate items in Square.
  4. Process payment.
  5. Direct the guest to the pouring station.

Commemorative Cups

Guests may purchase a limited-edition commemorative cup as an add-on item.

Guests may:

  • Purchase a commemorative cup with their order.
  • Reuse a previously purchased commemorative cup for future pours.
  • Choose a standard cup instead.
  • Purchase additional commemorative cups if desired.

Important

Whenever possible, all sales should be entered into Square to assist with sales tracking and reporting.

Cash, debit cards, and credit cards are accepted.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • A guest’s wristband appears altered, removed, or reapplied.
  • A payment issue cannot be resolved.
  • A guest becomes argumentative.
  • A guest appears intoxicated.

Station 3: Pouring Station

Pouring Station volunteers prepare and serve beverages to guests.

Responsibilities

  1. Receive the order from the cashier.
  2. Pour the correct beverage.
  3. Serve the beverage in:
    • A standard cup, or
    • The guest’s commemorative cup.
  4. Hand the beverage to the guest.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • A guest appears intoxicated.
  • A guest does not have a wristband.
  • A guest disputes service.
  • You are unsure whether service should be provided.

Cash Handling

  • Never count money in public view.
  • Place excess cash into designated cash envelopes.
  • Place completed cash envelopes into the designated collection container.
  • Contact Event Security if additional change or a cash pickup is needed.
  • Never announce cash pickups over the radio.

Work Area Expectations

  • Keep your station neat and organized.
  • Dispose of trash as needed.
  • Keep walkways and service areas clear.
  • Notify a supervisor if supplies are running low.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • A guest appears intoxicated.
  • A wristband appears altered, removed, or reapplied.
  • You are unsure whether a guest should be served.
  • A guest becomes disruptive or aggressive.
  • A payment issue cannot be resolved.
  • You are unsure how to proceed.

Remember

  • Be friendly.
  • Be patient.
  • Keep lines moving.
  • When in doubt, ask for help.

Download or View the Instructions Cheat Sheet Here, but please read the full description below.

Role Purpose

Trash Crew helps keep the San Diego Scottish Highland Games clean, safe, and enjoyable for our guests.

Volunteers will patrol the grounds using a golf cart, monitor trash receptacles, replace full liners, and transport trash to the designated dumpster area.

Before Your Shift

  1. Arrive at the WEST GATE Volunteer Check-In area.
  2. Check in with the Volunteer Coordinator.
  3. Receive your volunteer T-shirt and any required materials.
  4. You will be directed to your assigned station and supervisor.
  5. Review any last-minute instructions before beginning your shift.
  6. If you are unsure where to go or who to report to, ask the Volunteer Coordinator for assistance.

Equipment Provided

You will be provided with:

  • A golf cart
  • Replacement trash bag liners
  • Instructions for dumpster locations

Responsibilities

  1. Patrol the event grounds using your assigned golf cart.
  2. Monitor trash receptacles throughout the venue.
  3. When a trash bag is full:
    • Remove the full bag.
    • Tie the bag securely.
    • Place the bag on the rear of the golf cart.
  4. Install a new trash liner in the receptacle.
  5. Continue your route and monitor additional trash stations.
  6. Transport collected trash bags to the designated dumpster area near the EAST GATE.
  7. Dispose of all collected trash in the dumpsters.
  8. Continue patrolling throughout your shift.

Safety

  • Drive golf carts slowly and carefully around guests.
  • Yield to pedestrians at all times.
  • Slow down or stop when traveling through crowded areas.
  • When approaching guests from behind, politely announce your presence. For example: “On your left” or “Golf cart coming through.”
  • Do not overload the golf cart.
  • Use proper lifting techniques when handling full trash bags.
  • Ask for assistance if a bag is too heavy to lift safely.
  • Do not offer rides to guests.
  • Do not allow unauthorized individuals to ride on the golf cart.
  • Do not allow unauthorized individuals to operate the golf cart.
  • Park the golf cart in a safe location when loading or unloading trash.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • You are unsure where the dumpsters are located.
  • You run low on replacement liners.
  • A trash receptacle is damaged.
  • A golf cart is not operating properly.
  • You discover a safety concern on the grounds.
  • You need assistance lifting or transporting trash.

End of Shift

  1. Complete your final trash collection route.
  2. Dispose of any remaining trash bags in the designated dumpsters.
  3. Return the golf cart to the designated parking location.
  4. Remove any personal belongings from the cart.
  5. Return the golf cart keys to your supervisor.
  6. Report any equipment damage, maintenance concerns, or supply shortages before leaving.

Remember

  • Keep the grounds looking clean and welcoming.
  • Replace liners before bins overflow whenever possible.
  • Drive safely.
  • When in doubt, ask for help.

Download or View the Instructions Cheat Sheet Here, but please read the full description below.

Role Purpose

Sheepdog Competitor Check-In volunteers welcome competitors and help ensure that registered handlers and dogs are properly checked in for the Sheepdog Trials.

This role serves as the first point of contact for competitors arriving at the Sheepdog Trials area.

Before Your Shift

  1. Arrive at the WEST GATE Volunteer Check-In area.
  2. Check in with the Volunteer Coordinator.
  3. Receive your volunteer T-shirt and any required materials.
  4. You will be directed to your assigned station and supervisor.
  5. Review any last-minute instructions before beginning your shift.
  6. If you are unsure where to go or who to report to, ask the Volunteer Coordinator for assistance.

Responsibilities

  1. Greet arriving competitors.
  2. Ask for the handler’s name and dog name(s).
  3. Locate the competitor on the provided competitor list.
  4. Confirm the handler and dog(s) are registered participants.
  5. Check them in according to the instructions provided by the Sheepdog Trials supervisor.
  6. Direct competitors to the appropriate Sheepdog Trials area.
  7. Answer basic questions or direct competitors to the Sheepdog Trials supervisor for assistance.

Important

Only registered competitors and their dogs may be admitted through the Sheepdog Competitor Check-In area.

Family members, friends, spectators, and other guests must enter through the general admission gates and purchase admission if required.

If you are unsure whether someone should be admitted, contact the Sheepdog Trials supervisor before allowing entry.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • A competitor cannot be found on the competitor list.
  • A competitor disputes their registration status.
  • You are unsure whether a person should be admitted.
  • A guest becomes argumentative or disruptive.
  • You have questions about competition procedures.

Remember

  • Be friendly and welcoming.
  • Verify names carefully.
  • When in doubt, ask for help.

Download or View the Instructions Cheat Sheet Here, but please read the full description below.

Role Purpose

Setup & Breakdown Crew helps transform the event site into the San Diego Scottish Highland Games before the festival and return the venue to its original condition afterward.

Volunteers may assist with a variety of tasks throughout the grounds and should be prepared for light to moderate physical activity, lifting, carrying, walking, bending, and working outdoors.

Before Your Shift

  1. Arrive at the WEST GATE Volunteer Check-In area.
  2. Check in with the Volunteer Coordinator.
  3. Receive your volunteer T-shirt and any required materials.
  4. You will be directed to your assigned station and supervisor.
  5. Review any last-minute instructions before beginning your shift.
  6. If you are unsure where to go or who to report to, ask the Volunteer Coordinator for assistance.

Setup Responsibilities

Tasks may include:

  • Unloading equipment and supplies.
  • Distributing supplies throughout the venue.
  • Hanging banners, flags, and directional signage.
  • Setting up tables and chairs.
  • Setting up canopies and pop-up tents.
  • Preparing hospitality and seminar areas.
  • Setting up water stations and water containers.
  • Placing trash receptacles and liners throughout the grounds.
  • Setting up photo backdrops and display items.
  • Distributing supplies to designated areas, including food service and beverage areas.
  • Assisting supervisors with other event setup tasks as needed.

Assignments may vary throughout the day depending on event needs.

Safety

  • Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
  • Use proper lifting techniques.
  • Ask for assistance when lifting heavy or awkward items.
  • Stay hydrated throughout your shift.
  • Be aware of vehicles, equipment, and other volunteers working nearby.
  • Follow instructions provided by your supervisor.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • You are unsure where an item should be placed.
  • You need assistance moving equipment.
  • You discover damaged equipment.
  • You identify a safety concern.
  • You run out of assigned tasks.

Breakdown Responsibilities

At the conclusion of the event, volunteers will assist with returning the venue to its original condition.

In general, breakdown is the reverse of setup.

Tasks may include:

  • Removing banners, flags, and signage.
  • Taking down canopies and tents.
  • Folding and stacking tables and chairs.
  • Collecting supplies and equipment from around the venue.
  • Removing trash receptacles and liners.
  • Packing materials for transport or storage.
  • Loading equipment for return to storage.
  • Assisting supervisors with final venue cleanup.

Assignments may vary throughout the day depending on event needs.

Remember

  • Be flexible.
  • Be safe.
  • Ask questions when unsure.
  • Many hands make light work.

Download or View the Instructions Cheat Sheet Here, but please read the full description below.

Role Purpose

Storage Crew helps transport equipment and supplies between the event storage location and the festival grounds.

This role involves loading, unloading, organizing, lifting, carrying, and transporting equipment used throughout the San Diego Scottish Highland Games.

Volunteers should be prepared for moderate physical activity and working outdoors.

Before Your Shift

  1. Report to the designated meeting location provided by the Volunteer Coordinator.
  2. Check in with your supervisor.
  3. Receive any required instructions, safety information, and assignments.
  4. Review loading and unloading procedures before beginning work.
  5. Ask questions if you are unsure about any task or destination.

Thursday: Load-Out & Transport

Volunteers may assist with:

  • Organizing equipment and supplies for transport.
  • Loading trucks and trailers.
  • Securing items for safe transportation.
  • Unloading equipment at the event site.
  • Moving equipment to designated staging areas.
  • Assisting supervisors with other transportation and logistics tasks.

Assignments may vary depending on event needs.

Monday: Return to Storage

Volunteers may assist with:

  • Collecting equipment and supplies from staging areas.
  • Loading trucks and trailers.
  • Returning equipment to the storage location.
  • Unloading trucks.
  • Organizing equipment inside the storage facility.
  • Assisting supervisors with final cleanup and storage tasks.

Assignments may vary depending on event needs.

Safety

  • Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
  • Use proper lifting techniques.
  • Ask for assistance when lifting heavy or awkward items.
  • Stay hydrated throughout your shift.
  • Keep walkways clear while loading and unloading.
  • Be aware of vehicles, trailers, and moving equipment.
  • Follow all instructions provided by your supervisor.
  • Do not ride on trailers, truck beds, or equipment.
  • Report damaged equipment or safety concerns immediately.

Contact a Supervisor If:

  • You are unsure where an item should be placed.
  • You need assistance moving equipment.
  • You discover damaged equipment.
  • You identify a safety concern.
  • You are unsure whether an item should be loaded or unloaded.
  • You run out of assigned tasks.

Remember

  • Work safely.
  • Lift with your legs, not your back.
  • Stay organized.
  • Ask questions when unsure.
  • Many hands make light work.
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