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Festival Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Privia Health

Endocrinology Physician Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$103K - $139K/yr

Endocrinology Physician Assistant We are currently looking for an Endocrinology nurse practitioner ... including festivals, museums, theaters, year-round markets, outdoor recreation, and five ...

Jako Enterprises LLC

Assistant Manager

Greenbelt, MD

$18.85 - $24.50/hr

SNIPES Assistant Manager Full Time Hourly Salary $18.85-$24.50 per hour We live sneakers ... We dive deep into subcultures, sponsor some of the biggest hip-hop festivals, events, and sports ...

Snipes

Assistant Manager

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

SNIPES Assistant Manager We live sneakers, streetwear, and neighborhood culture! All Day! Every Day ... We dive deep into subcultures, sponsor some of the biggest hip-hop festivals, events, and sports ...

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Festival Assistant information

What is a festival assistant?

Festival Assistants are support staff who help organize and manage various aspects of festivals, including logistics, setup, ticketing, guest services, and on-site coordination. They work closely with event managers and vendors to ensure the festival runs smoothly and that attendees have a positive experience. Responsibilities can range from administrative tasks to hands-on work before, during, and after the event. Festival Assistants often need strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work flexible hours.

What are some common challenges festival assistants face during large events, and how can they prepare for them?

Festival Assistants often encounter fast-paced environments, last-minute changes, and the need to coordinate with multiple teams simultaneously. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, maintain flexibility, and stay proactive in communication with supervisors and other staff. Familiarizing yourself with the event layout, schedule, and emergency procedures can also help you respond quickly to issues as they arise and support the event's smooth operation.

What is the difference between Festival Assistant vs Event Coordinator?

AspectFestival AssistantEvent Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer experience in event workBachelor's degree in event management, hospitality, or related field
Work EnvironmentFestivals, outdoor venues, temporary setupsVarious events, including conferences, weddings, corporate events
Employer & Industry UsageEvent companies, festivals, nonprofit organizationsEvent planning firms, corporate clients, venues
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in festivalsPlanning and managing events

Festival Assistants typically support festival operations, focusing on setup, guest assistance, and logistics. Event Coordinators have broader responsibilities, including planning, organizing, and overseeing entire events. While Festival Assistants often require minimal formal credentials, Event Coordinators usually hold relevant degrees and experience. Both roles are essential in the event industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a festival assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Festival Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in event coordination or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, ticketing systems, and communication tools is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, flexibility, and a proactive attitude help you manage diverse tasks and interact effectively with attendees, vendors, and team members. These skills ensure smooth event operations and create a positive experience for both participants and organizers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Festival jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Festival jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Festival Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Festival Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
Festival Assistant jobs near you

Events and Operations Intern - 2027 Festival

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Internship

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Washington, DC, seeks Events and Operations Interns to assist the Events and Operations team in executing the 2027 Festival.


Who We Are

The National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. is dedicated to promoting the beauty of nature and international friendship through year-round programs, events, and educational initiatives that enhance our environment, showcase arts, culture, and build community spirit.

Internship Description

The Events and Operations Intern(s) contribute to the planning, coordination, and execution of a variety of National Cherry Blossom Festival signature events, including the Launch Event & Artwork Reveal, Opening Ceremony, Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza®, National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®, and BloomFest at the Tidal Basin.

Working alongside the Festival's Events and Operations team, interns will gain hands-on experience in event production, logistics, vendor coordination, and project management while supporting planning efforts leading up to the 2027 National Cherry Blossom Festival.

In addition to assisting with Festival-wide planning and operations, each intern may be assigned a specialized project area that aligns with organizational priorities. These projects are designed to provide interns with meaningful ownership, strengthen professional skills, and create lasting resources that support future Festival planning.


General Responsibilities

  • Participate in programming, production, and planning meetings with Festival staff, vendors, partners, and stakeholders.

  • Assist with planning and onsite coordination for the National Cherry Blossom Festival Launch Event (Fall 2026) and support preparations for the 2027 National Cherry Blossom Festival signature events, including Opening Ceremony, Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza®, National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®, and BloomFest.

  • Assist with vendor outreach, research, estimates, contract administration, and resource coordination.

  • Research and develop vendor resources, maintain contact information, compare pricing and services, and contribute to the Festival's preferred vendor database.

  • Assist with performer, participant, sponsor, and vendor application management.

  • Help develop production schedules, run-of-show documents, event planning materials, operational checklists, and other event documentation.

  • Support performer, participant, and VIP hospitality planning and logistics.

  • Assist with venue logistics, operational planning, site visits, and partner coordination.

  • Conduct research on entertainment, production, audience engagement, and sponsorship activation opportunities to support Festival programming.

  • Assist with evaluating guest experience, attendee flow, and event activation opportunities, and develop recommendations that enhance Festival experiences.

  • Support inventory management by organizing, labeling, and tracking Festival assets, including décor, signage, equipment, tents, banners, radios, and supplies; assist with maintaining inventory records and storage systems.

  • Assist with developing and maintaining operational resources, including inventory databases, vendor directories, event planning templates, and other organizational tools that support future Festival planning.

  • Provide onsite event support during meetings, site visits, and Festival events, including event setup, load-in/load-out, logistics, and production assistance.

  • Perform general administrative and operational support as assigned.


Internship Experience

Throughout the semester, interns will have opportunities to:
  • Gain practical experience in nonprofit event management and large-scale festival production.
  • Work alongside experienced event professionals and community partners.
  • Participate in planning meetings, venue walkthroughs, and production discussions.
  • Develop project management, logistics, communication, and operational planning skills.
  • Complete a portfolio-quality project that provides lasting value to the Festival and demonstrates professional experience for future career opportunities


Time Requirements: The Festival seeks interns who are available for both Fall AND Spring semesters to get the most value and experience during this internship. Interns who can commit to only one semester, either Fall or Spring, are also welcome to apply. Event execution support is subject to the intern’s availability and discretion. Interns are asked to commit to at least one full semester supporting the Festival.


Schedule:

Fall Semester targeted start date: Monday, September 14, 2026

Fall Semester end date: December 2026, depending upon the intern’s schedule


Spring Semester targeted start date: Monday, January 11, 2027

Spring Semester end date: May 2027, depending upon the intern’s schedule.

The 2027 National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from March 20 – April 11, 2027.


15-20 hours per week between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM. Hours and schedule to be determined in consultation with the Senior Event Manager.

Attendance and participation onsite at Festival events; some nights and weekends during the Festival

While some of the functions can be performed remotely, interns must be available to meet and work from the NCBF office located in Downtown DC.

Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled in an accredited university or college as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student
  • Experience with operations, activity, event management, research, or project coordination
  • Detail oriented and organized with the ability to manage multiple projects
  • Ability to work with a variety of people and build teamwork
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently
  • Capable of doing physical labor (lifting boxes, various event set-up duties, etc.)
  • Comfortable working in both office and outdoor settings (rain, cold, mud, sun, wind, etc.)
  • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace required; familiarity with Slack and Monday.com preferred


Compensation

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. internships are unpaid, but college credit may be offered depending upon the educational institution’s guidelines and requirements. A monthly stipend is available for interns to defray the cost of commuting to the office.