Employment Acknowledgment & Participation Agreement
1. Employment Status
I understand that most roles at Twinkle & Tinsel Holiday Festival are seasonal employment positions. Certain specialized roles may be classified as independent contractor positions pursuant to a separate written agreement where applicable.
If I am engaged as an independent contractor under a separate agreement, I understand that I may be responsible for my own taxes, insurance, and business obligations in accordance with applicable federal and New York law.
2. At-Will Employment
If I am hired as an employee, I understand that my employment is at-will. This means that either I or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice and with or without cause, subject to applicable law.
3. Equal Opportunity Employment
Twinkle & Tinsel Holiday Festival is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected classification under federal or New York law.
4. Work Authorization
I certify that I am legally authorized to work in the United States and will provide documentation as required by law if hired.
5. Conduct & Professional Expectations
I agree to follow all operational rules, safety procedures, and behavioral expectations.
These include but are not limited to:
No possession or use of illegal drugs or alcohol while working or on company property
No harassment, discrimination, or abusive conduct toward guests or staff
Maintaining a friendly, welcoming, and family-appropriate demeanor at all times
Representing the event in a positive and professional manner
Complying with all safety instructions and staff direction
Violation may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
6. Guest Interaction Policy
For the safety and comfort of guests:
Employees and performers may not physically touch guests, including children, unless specifically authorized (e.g., Santa photos or approved interactions)
All guest interactions must remain appropriate, respectful, and family-friendly
7. Acknowledgment of Work Environment & Assumption of Risk
I understand that holiday event operations may involve:
Outdoor environments and weather conditions
Cold temperatures
Decorative lighting, including string lights and display lighting
Crowds, lines, and high guest volume
Walking and standing for extended periods
I acknowledge that these conditions carry inherent risks such as slips, trips, or minor physical strain.
I voluntarily assume the ordinary risks associated with these activities. Nothing in this section waives rights under applicable New York labor or workers’ compensation laws.
8. Workplace Injury & Safety
Employees are expected to immediately report any workplace injury or unsafe condition.
Any work-related injury will be handled in accordance with applicable laws including the New York Workers’ Compensation Law.
9. Guest Experience & Service Expectations
Employees in guest-facing roles must:
Provide a positive, welcoming, and helpful experience
Assist with directions, questions, and general guest needs.
Maintain professionalism in all interactions
Failure to meet guest service expectations may result in disciplinary action.
10. Safety & Operational Guidelines
Employees agree that they will not:
Engage in unsafe behavior that could harm guests or staff
Block walkways, exits, or emergency access points
Create unsafe crowd conditions or disruptions
All employees must follow emergency procedures and instructions from management.
11. Costume, Character & Appearance Standards
Employees in character or themed roles (Santa, elves, etc.) agree to:
Remain in character when required
Maintain a clean, appropriate, and professional appearance
Follow all costume and presentation guidelines
12. Equipment & Property Use
Employees agree to use all equipment, decorations, and materials safely and as directed.
Employees may not:
Modify decorations or equipment without approval
Use any item in a way that could cause damage or injury
Bring unauthorized items onto the property
13. Employee Responsibility for Misconduct
Employees understand that failure to follow safety rules or policies may create risk.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, employees may be held personally responsible for damages resulting from intentional misconduct or actions outside their assigned duties.
14. Indemnification for Unauthorized Conduct
To the extent permitted under New York law, employees agree to indemnify and hold harmless Twinkle & Tinsel Holiday Festival and its affiliates from claims arising from intentional misconduct or violations of company policy.
This does not apply to actions performed in accordance with training or job duties.
15. Media Release
I grant Twinkle & Tinsel Holiday Festival and its affiliates the right to photograph, film, or record me while participating in event activities.
I authorize use of these materials for promotional, marketing, or advertising purposes without additional compensation.
16. Social Media & Public Representation
Employees understand they may be photographed or recorded by guests.
Employees agree to represent the event professionally both on-site and online and may not:
Share confidential or behind-the-scenes information
Post guest incidents publicly
Represent themselves as speaking on behalf of the event without authorization
17. Personal Property
I understand that I am responsible for my personal belongings while on property. The event is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
18. Background Verification
I authorize verification of my application information as permitted by law. Certain roles may require background checks.
19. Dispute Resolution
Any dispute should first be addressed through good-faith discussion or mediation prior to formal legal action, to the extent permitted by law.
20. Electronic Signature
By submitting this application electronically, I acknowledge that my electronic signature has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.
21. Acknowledgment
By submitting this application or accepting employment, I confirm that I:
Have read and understand this agreement
Agree to follow all policies and procedures
Understand the seasonal nature of the position
Confirm that my information is accurate
If under 18, I understand that parental/guardian consent may be required.