If you’ve ever attended the Berkshire Yoga Festival, you know the experience goes far beyond the classes.

It’s the feeling of moving through a weekend that flows effortlessly—from one session to the next, from mountaintop moments to late-night music, from quiet reflection to vibrant connection.

But behind that experience is a team helping it all come together.

We call them the Vibe Tribe—our volunteers who support everything from classroom check-in and guest services to faculty support and the vendor village. They’re often the first friendly face you see when you arrive, the ones helping sessions run smoothly, and the steady presence behind the scenes.

And while they’re supporting the festival, they’re also experiencing it in their own way.

We asked two past volunteers to share what it’s really like to be part of the Vibe Tribe.

**Meet Arleen**

Arleen came to Berkshire Yoga Festival with past volunteer experience at large-scale events like Yoga Journal conferences, already knowing how meaningful it can be to support something you believe in…

“I had volunteered in the past for different festivals… it was always a great experience, so I was excited to be a part of BYF.”

Over two years, she experienced multiple sides of the Vibe Tribe. Her first year on the classroom team involved checking participants in, helping organize the space, and supporting teachers before sessions began. The following year, she joined the concierge team, welcoming presenters and helping ensure they felt supported throughout the weekend.

What stood out most wasn’t just the work—it was the people.

“The camaraderie of all involved… everyone was so invested in making sure the festival was a success.”

Despite her responsibilities, Arlene still found time to fully experience the festival.

“Absolutely. Every session that I joined—on purpose or just because it fit my schedule—had something wonderful to offer.”

And like many attendees, some of her most memorable moments happened in the setting itself.

“I would say when an event or class was held at the top of the mountain.”

When asked who she would recommend volunteering to, her answer reflects the heart of the experience:

“Anyone who enjoys seeing a festival from behind the scenes… and the camaraderie of like-minded yogi kind of people.”

**Meet Kerrie**

For Kerrie, the decision to volunteer came from her experience attending the very first Berkshire Yoga Festival…

“My decision was inspired by the profound sense of connection and community I experienced during the festival's first year.”

She returned not just as an attendee—but as part of the team helping bring the experience to life.

Kerrie supported multiple areas across her time as a volunteer, from classroom check-in—ensuring instructors had what they needed and participants were welcomed—to helping with setup and working in the merch tent.

Like many Vibe Tribe members, she found a rhythm between contributing and participating.

“I then stayed to participate in the class while ensuring things ran smoothly… my shifts were conveniently scheduled around the classes I wanted to attend.”

What surprised her most was something deeper than logistics or access:

“I was surprised by the deep sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from being part of something larger than myself.”

She was still able to take in the full atmosphere of the festival—especially the music and energy that bring the community together.

“I particularly enjoyed the live music and performances; the atmosphere was incredibly lively and engaging.”

And when it came to standout moments, it wasn’t just the sessions:

“My favorite moment was definitely the volunteer wrap party.”

For Kerrie, the experience is best suited for those who enjoy connection and contribution:

“I would recommend it to anyone who is personable and enjoys being of service to others.”

**A Different Way to Experience the Festival**

Volunteering at the Berkshire Yoga Festival offers a unique perspective—one where you’re not just attending, but actively contributing to the experience that thousands of others are having.

It’s a chance to:

See how a festival comes together behind the scenes
Connect with a team of like-minded people
Support teachers, attendees, and the flow of the weekend
And still take part in the sessions, music, and moments that make the festival special

For many, it becomes more than just a way to attend—it becomes a meaningful part of the experience itself.