Title: Events and Operations Intern - 2027 Festival Location: Washington , DC Department: Events and Operations Employment Type: Internship
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 AreThe 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 DescriptionThe 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 ResponsibilitiesParticipate 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 ExperienceThroughout 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 opportunitiesTime 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, 2026Fall Semester end date: December 2026, depending upon the intern’s scheduleSpring Semester targeted start date: Monday, January 11, 2027Spring 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 FestivalWhile some of the functions can be performed remotely, interns must be available to meet and work from the NCBF office located in Downtown DC. QualificationsCurrently enrolled in an accredited university or college as a full-time undergraduate or graduate studentExperience with operations, activity, event management, research, or project coordinationDetail oriented and organized with the ability to manage multiple projectsAbility to work with a variety of people and build teamworkAbility to take initiative and work independentlyCapable 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 preferredCompensationNational 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.
About National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC. Founded in 2000, it produces annual events that celebrate spring and the 1912 gift of cherry blossom trees. The festival highlights the friendship between the United States and Japan through arts, culture, and community programming. Most of its events are free and open to the public.
How to get in at National Cherry Blossom Festival
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