Events and Operations Intern - 2027 Festival

National Cherry Blossom Festival • Washington, WA

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Washington, DC, is seeking Events and Operations Interns to assist the Events and Operations team in executing the 2027 Festival. The organization 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. The Events and Operations Interns will contribute to the planning, coordination, and execution of a variety of National Cherry Blossom Festival signature events. 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. Each intern may also be assigned a specialized project area that aligns with organizational priorities, designed to provide meaningful ownership, strengthen professional skills, and create lasting resources for future Festival planning.

Requirements

• 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

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with Slack and Monday.com preferred

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.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree