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Festival Event Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gloucester County

Festival Coordinator

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Description Are you creative and interested in supporting event planning activities. Gloucester ... Reserves festival facilities and equipment. Provide courteous and direct customer service during ...

Gloucester County, VA

Festival Coordinator

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

... Festival. Hours will fluctuate throughout the year with more hours required leading up to events ... Handles a variety of office-based administrative tasks throughout the spectrum of event planning.

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Festival Event Planning information

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$20.5K

$75.3K

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How much do festival event planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for festival event planning in the United States is $75,268.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a festival event planner?

To become a festival event planner, gain experience in event coordination or hospitality, develop strong organizational and communication skills, and consider earning a relevant certification such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). Familiarity with event management software and budgeting is also beneficial for planning large-scale festivals.

How much money does an event planner get?

Event planners, including those specializing in festival event planning, typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the scale of events managed. Salaries can increase with certification, such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), and by working for larger organizations or handling high-profile events.

What are some common challenges faced in festival event planning roles, and how are they typically addressed?

Festival event planners often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple vendors, handling last-minute changes, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations. Managing weather-related uncertainties, crowd control, and technical logistics can also require quick decision-making and effective contingency planning. Teams usually address these challenges through thorough advance preparation, regular communication with all stakeholders, and maintaining flexible backup plans. Support from colleagues, clear delegation of responsibilities, and reliance on event management tools are key to navigating the dynamic environment of festival planning.

What event planners make the most money?

Experienced event planners who specialize in large-scale festivals, corporate events, or high-profile public celebrations tend to earn the highest salaries. Those with strong negotiation skills, industry connections, and certifications such as CMP or CSEP often command higher pay, especially when managing complex or high-budget events.

What is a Festival Event Planning job?

A Festival Event Planning job involves organizing, coordinating, and overseeing various aspects of a festival, such as logistics, budget, vendors, entertainment, permits, and safety measures. Planners work closely with clients, sponsors, and local authorities to ensure the event runs smoothly and successfully. This role requires strong organizational skills, creativity, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Is being an event planner a good career?

Festival event planning is a dynamic career that involves coordinating logistics, managing vendors, and ensuring successful execution of events. It requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure, often with irregular hours. The profession can be rewarding but also competitive and demanding, with success often dependent on experience and networking.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Festival Event Planning position, and why are they important?

To excel in Festival Event Planning, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and experience in project or event management—often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, vendor management systems, and safety regulations is crucial. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help planners build relationships and adapt to changing circumstances. These competencies are vital for seamlessly coordinating multiple event facets and delivering successful, engaging festival experiences.

More about Festival Event Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for Festival Event Planning jobs? Cities with the most Festival Event Planning job openings:
What states have the most Festival Event Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Festival Event Planning jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Festival Event Planning jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Festival Event Planning jobs are:
Festival Event Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Festival Event Planning job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,268 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Events and Operations Intern - 2027 Festival

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Internship

Posted 21 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.