Title: Graphic Design Intern Location: Washington , DC Department: Marketing & Communications Employment Type: Internship
Description: National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Washington, DC, seeks two energetic, creative, and passionate Marketing & Communications Graphic Design Interns to assist the 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 Marketing & Communications Graphic Design Intern will contribute to the communication, marketing, and branding strategy of various National Cherry Blossom Festival programs and events for the 2027 Festival. Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:Work closely with the Marketing and Communications team and other departments to understand project objectives, gather requirements, and deliver high-quality designs within established deadlines.Assist in concept creation for a variety of campaigns using the Festival’s unique brandingApply principles of design to create and implement visual assets, including advertisements, event signage and collateral, digital invitations, and banners, etc.Develop PowerPoint presentations for special campaigns, events, and initiatives within project timelinesSupport and update essential production boards via Monday.com, a project management platformOrganize and maintain the Festival’s photo galleryAssist with onsite team-related roles at in-person events as neededOther design requirements and responsibilities as necessaryThe Festival welcomes interns who wish to focus on a particular specialty (e.g., photography, design, video, social media, website, media monitoring, and campaign tracking). Depending on the area(s) of interest and level of expertise, the work can be structured to offer a valuable hands-on learning experience.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, 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.September - December 2026:10 to 15 hours per week between the hours of 10 AM and 5:30 PM - Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday (Tuesday and Friday remote as needed).Evening availability to execute the Festival Launch event (late October 2026).Start and end dates are flexible to align with semester schedules and internship academic credit requirements.Hours, schedule, and work format (must be primarily onsite with minimal remote option) are determined in consultation with the Marketing and Communications team and based on student availability.January – May 2027:10 to 15 hours per week between the hours of 10 AM and 5:30 PM - Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday (Tuesday and Friday remote as needed).Start and end dates are flexible to align with semester schedules and internship academic credit requirements.Hours, schedule, and work format (must be primarily onsite with minimal remote options) are determined in consultation with the Marketing and Communications team and based on student availability.Evening and weekend availability to execute key Festival weekly programs and events during peak months (March 2027 – April 2027). QualificationsCurrently enrolled in an accredited university or college as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student. Recent graduates may also be considered.Candidates must be studying graphic design or a similar degree and provide a portfolio showcasing creativity through brand design, layout, typography, and current trendsProficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign; Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPointPassion for community engagement, the arts, and/or international friendshipStrong attention to detail and organized with the ability to multi-taskExcellent written and verbal communications skills (knowledge of AP Style preferred)Able to work independently and complete multiple projects in a timely mannerAbility to collaborate with a variety of people in an exciting, fast-paced environmentPreferred, but not required: Prior experience in photography/videography plus Adobe Premiere Pro editing, and experience in CanvaCompensationNational 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.Please include a PDF file of your portfolio using the application form and/or include a link to your website portfolio on your CV/resume.
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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