Nothing says “Ireland” like St. Patrick’s Day. But instead of just watching the parade, get involved!  Head to Dublin March 14-18 where you can actually volunteer to help out at the parades and assist the Irish bands. This week’s voluntourism spotlight show you how to have an insider’s experience of Ireland’s national holiday. Find out more in this weekend’s broadcast of Peter Greenberg Worldwide and check back every Wednesday for more voluntourism opportunities.

First started in 1996 as a single-day event, the St. Patrick’s Festival has grown to a five-day celebration of Irish pride and culture that draws more than a million visitors from across the globe.  The festival features music, street performances, traditional Irish dancing, craft beers, and much more.  In order to keep everything running smoothly the festival needs plenty of volunteers.

If Ireland has been on your travel to-do list, this is an opportunity that you don’t want to miss, not only will you experience the fun and excitement of the St. Patrick’s festival, but you will also get to do it from an insider’s perspective.  The festival is currently seeking volunteers to lend a hand as production assistants, hospitality assistants, performance facilitators, and stewards, as well as those who are fluent Irish speakers.  Those interested in getting involved just need to  fill out a short sign-up form on the festival website.

By Steven Knight for PeterGreenberg.com