thank you for your interest in volunteering.

This page is currently focused on helping volunteers to prepare for World of Coffee Brussels 2026. We’ll update it between events as a handy guide for your experience.

Key Volunteer Requirements & Expectations

We recommend arriving 20 minutes before each shift. This ensures time for: 

  • Picking up your entry badge at the Reception desks, check-in at the Volunteer Lounge, receiving your volunteer shirt 

  • Locating your assigned station

Know where to go! You can view and print the show floor map for this event here!

World of Coffee Brussels is held at the Brussels EXPO, Place de Belgique 1, 1020, Laeken, Belgium. You can find all information about transportation, disabled access and parking here.

Orientation & Volunteer Events

Online Volunteer Orientation – May 2026

You will receive an official email invitation from SCA with details and a link to the online orientation session held in May 2026. Attendance is strongly encouraged to help you prepare, find your way around the event and get your questions answered.

Onsite Volunteer Reception

Volunteers will also receive an invitation to a special onsite Volunteer Reception during the event — a chance to meet fellow volunteers, event staff, SCA leadership members and community members.

Your volunteer shifts and schedule

You will find a link to your volunteer profile in your volunteer signup confirmation email. Please keep this mail and use the “Profile” link to add, cancel and self-manage your shifts. Volunteer shifts are available at a first come, first serve basis.

What to Bring as a Volunteer

To stay comfortable and prepared:

✔ Bring your own lunch: Food onsite can be expensive or lines may be long — packing lunch saves money and time.

✔ Bring any needed medication: Keep daily or emergency medications with you in your day-bag.

✔ Wear only closed-toe, comfortable shoes: You may be standing, walking, or moving equipment. Closed-toe shoes are required for many volunteer roles.

✔ Other essentials to bring:

  • Water bottle

  • Portable phone charger

  • Snacks

  • Lightweight backpack/day-bag

Health & Safety

  • Stay hydrated (especially during long shifts)

  • Take scheduled breaks

  • Let coordinators know immediately if you feel unwell

  • Follow all onsite safety guidelines

Volunteer Lounge – Location

The Volunteer Lounge is the place for all things volunteer during World of Coffee Brussels. Here you can:

  • Check in for every volunteer shift – so we know you’ve arrived

  • Receive your unique volunteer shirt

  • Take a break! 

Please note: while we may have some light snacks available (along with coffee) at the Volunteer Lounge, we do not supply a lunch / meals.

  • Please make sure to bring your own lunch, as onsite food outlets may not offer options for specific dietary requirements/allergies.

  • We have one unique volunteer T-shirt available per volunteer per event.

  • No-shows or late cancellations (after June 1, 2026) may result in a charge for your volunteer entry badge.

Disclaimer: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is not affiliated with, does not endorse, and is not responsible for any third-party lodging, restaurant, transportation, or pricing information in this fact sheet. All external recommendations are for informational and volunteer convenience only and may change at any time. Volunteers should verify prices, availability, and locations independently.