• Ongoing opportunities that keep our story alive beyond events.

    • Herald of Shadows – Assist with digital marketing and social media.

    • Poster Phantom – Distribute flyers and posters to local venues.

    • Outreach Envoy – Represent Lowell Obscura at community events and festivals.

    • Scribe of Obscura – Provide photography, video, or live social updates.

    • Archivist – Track press coverage, photos, and participant feedback.

  • Roles that focus on welcoming and guiding our audiences.

    • Shadow Host – Greet guests, staff the info table, and answer questions.

    • Velvet Attendant – Manage check-in, tickets, coat check, and seating.

    • Crowd Weaver – Help with audience movement between spaces.

    • Lantern Bearer – Guide candlelit processions and manage lanterns/lighting.

    • Circle Guide – Welcome participants and help with seating and flow during rituals.

    • Moonlight Guardian – Maintain a calm and safe atmosphere during gatherings.

    • Grave Watcher – Ensure safe and respectful behavior at cemetery events.

    • Trail Warden – Guide groups through haunted trail experiences.

    • Shadow Guard – Provide safety support and manage entrances/exits.

  • Roles that help shape the look, sound, and storytelling of our events.

    • Scene Shaper – Assist with event setup and breakdown (décor, signage, atmosphere).

    • Stagehand of Shadows – Support sound, lighting, and performer transitions.

    • Echo Keeper – Support musicians with stage transitions and sound checks.

    • Fire Keeper – Manage candles, lanterns, or symbolic flames.

    • Snowlight Bearer – Set up lanterns, candles, or lights in ritual spaces.

    • Petal Keeper – Create floral or gothic-inspired décor.

    • Story Spirit – Perform or narrate in storytelling reenactments.

    • Epitaph Reader – Read poetry or folklore passages on lantern-lit tours.

    • Phantom Presence - A silent embodiment of the gothic spirit. Costumed volunteers drift through events, creating ambiance through visual storytelling, presence, and poise. Ideal for those who love immersive performance and becoming part of the scene.

  • Roles that focus on stories, writing, and creative facilitation.

    • Raven Scribe – Assist with open mics or literary readings.

    • Lore Keeper – Help coordinate panels, author talks, or workshops.

    • Storyteller’s Scribe – Support authors and poets during readings.

    • Oracle’s Aid – Assist tarot readers, crystal healers, or meditation leaders.

    • Ritual Steward – Assist facilitators of meditation, tarot, or ceremonial activities.

    • Crystal Keeper – Organize crystals or ritual objects.

  • Roles that support vendors, artisans, and guest purchases.

    • Market Mystic – Assist artisan/craft vendors with setup and guest flow.

    • Raven Runner – Assist vendors with supplies and quick needs.

    • Vendor Familiar – Assist vendors and beverage tables.

    • Obscura Outfitter – Run the merchandise table, selling t-shirts, stickers, and keepsakes.

  • Roles designed for immersive, thematic experiences.

    • Mask Keeper – Assist with distributing masks, costume contests, and photo ops.

    • Ballroom Familiar – Support musicians, DJs, or performers backstage.

    • Tea Keeper – Prepare and serve tea, pastries, or refreshments.

    • Lowell Obscura volunteer shirt or gothic-inspired pin

    • Complimentary ticket to an event of your choice

    • Snacks and refreshments during shifts

    • Recognition in programs and social media

    • Invitations to volunteer appreciation gatherings

Why VOLUNTEER?

Volunteering with Lowell Obscura is more than lending a hand — it’s stepping into the story.

  • Be Part of the Story – Every lantern lit, every guest welcomed, every poster hung becomes part of the narrative we’re creating together. You’re not just helping at an event — you’re helping shape a cultural movement in Lowell.

  • Celebrate Heritage – Our gatherings honor Lowell’s unique gothic landscape — its mills, canals, and cemeteries. By volunteering, you help bring history alive in new and imaginative ways.

  • Build Community – Meet artists, musicians, storytellers, and fellow seekers of the strange. Volunteers form the heart of Lowell Obscura, building friendships in shadow and light.

  • Learn and Create – Gain hands-on experience in event production, creative placemaking, and community engagement — skills you can carry forward long after the event ends.

  • Embrace the Experience – Dress the part, embrace the theme, and enjoy the atmosphere. Our volunteers are participants as much as helpers, embodying the spirit of gothic imagination.