In Black Rock City, Arctica refers to the city’s official depots (nicknamed igloos) where participants can purchase ice, making it one of the only commercial transactions allowed on the playa.
Beat the heat at Arctica
Arctica’s approximately 1,000 volunteers are some of the happiest on playa, keeping cool out of the sun. We need around 60 participants per day to distribute ice.
Enthusiasm is the main skill you need to successfully volunteer with Arctica!
There is a place for everyone at Arctica
- Ice Slinger: You need to be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 45 lbs of ice from the truck to the counter. There’s a trick to making it easy, but don’t start with a bad back.
- Ice Pusher: You need to be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 45 lbs of ice and being in a very cold truck for 3 hours (with breaks of course). Gloves are highly recommended! Also, you’ll learn to work a pallet jack like a pro.
- Cashier: We prefer that these positions go to volunteers who have cash handling/register experience or are willing to volunteer for 3 or more shifts throughout the week.
- Greeter: You need to be willing to talk to everyone! You will be educating them on their ice options and prices so that they are ready with their order and cash when you send them to the next register.
- Line Barker: You need to be comfortable using a bullhorn. You’ll be helping folks figure out what to do (and not do) as they arrive at the igloo and join the queue.
- Bike Parking: You need to be comfortable using a bullhorn. You’ll direct folks on where to park their bikes so they stay out of the road, and ask them to move if necessary. Art cars & vehicles may be redirected to the Large Order Outpost.
We’ll be here all week
Shifts are scheduled every day of the event. Plan to be at Arctica for four-hours on an average shift. You can choose from shifts at four locations.
- Center Camp Plaza
- Plaza at 3:00 & G
- Plaza at 9:00 & G
- Large Order Outpost – 6:15 & K
You’ll get to cool off while keeping the life force flowing to hot, dusty Black Rock citizens! The music is pumping, and the ice must flow! We can’t wait to chill with you!
To get involved fill out the Volunteer Questionnaire and check the box next to Arctica (Ice Sales). If you have more questions, contact our volunteer coordinator via ice-volunteers@burningman.org.
Have you heard? Arctica shifts are great for groups!
Theme camps (or other groups) can sign up to cover a full shift. It’s a fun and rewarding group activity! Send an email to ice-volunteers@burningman.org to learn more.