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How much do festival internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for festival internship in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a festival internship?

Festival internships are temporary positions that allow students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience working at festivals. Interns may assist with event planning, marketing, logistics, vendor coordination, social media, and on-site operations. These roles provide valuable insights into the event industry, opportunities to network with professionals, and practical skills that can boost a resume. Internships can be paid or unpaid and typically last for the duration of the festival season or specific events.

What is the difference between Festival Internship vs Festival Coordinator?

AspectFestival InternshipFestival Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically students or entry-level applicants, some relevant courseworkExperience in event management, often with a degree or prior coordination experience
Work EnvironmentSupportive, learning-focused, temporary roles during festivalsLeadership role, overseeing planning and execution of festival activities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by festivals for staffing and trainingUsed by event companies and festivals for managing event operations

Festival internships are entry-level positions aimed at gaining experience in festival operations, often filled by students or those new to the industry. Festival coordinators hold more responsibility, managing planning, logistics, and team coordination. While internships focus on learning and support, coordinators lead the event execution. Both roles are essential in the festival industry but differ significantly in scope and experience requirements.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a festival intern?

To thrive as a Festival Intern, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask, often supported by coursework or experience in event management or hospitality. Familiarity with event planning software, basic office tools, and sometimes ticketing or registration platforms is helpful. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top candidates in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure smooth event operations, enhance attendee experience, and support the festival team in achieving successful outcomes.

What are the typical responsibilities of a festival intern?

Festival interns are often entrusted with a variety of tasks such as assisting with event setup, managing attendee registration, coordinating with vendors, and supporting on-site logistics. They may also help with social media updates, guest services, and backstage operations. By handling these responsibilities, interns play a crucial role in ensuring the festival runs smoothly and that both participants and visitors have a positive experience. This hands-on involvement provides valuable exposure to event planning, teamwork, and problem-solving in a dynamic environment.
More about Festival Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Festival Internship jobs? Cities with the most Festival Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Festival jobs? The most popular types of Festival jobs are:
What states have the most Festival Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Festival Internship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Festival Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Festival Internship jobs are:
Festival Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Festival Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 63% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Events and Operations Intern - 2027 Festival

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Internship

Re-posted yesterday

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.