500 Festival Internship Program

500 Festival Internship Program

An Internship Experience of a Lifetime!

Each spring, the 500 Festival welcomes a diverse and highly motivated group of college students to take part in our Internship Program – an immersive opportunity to gain hands-on professional experience while getting an inside look at the electrifying Month of May in Indianapolis.

The 500 Festival Internship Program is a unique and sought-after program for students who are eager to immerse themselves in the world of events and experience the excitement of May in Indianapolis. Interns gain valuable professional experience and a behind-the-scenes view of what it takes to produce the world’s most exceptional month-long series of events, including the 500 Festival Parade, the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, and community celebrations throughout the Month of May.

We are seeking dedicated and enthusiastic students who are eager to make a significant impact, enjoy their work, and are willing to put in the effort to succeed. This program is ideal for students who aspire to pursue a career in events, are open to learning, and can commit to long hours during the busy months of April and May. Interns should be excited about joining a vibrant and collaborative intern group and ready to roll up their sleeves.

Positions for Spring 2026 have been filled.

Applications for Spring 2027 internships will open in Fall 2026.

Intern Program Benefits

  • Full-time internships eligible for college credit

  • First-hand view and involvement in the production of world-class events and programs

  • Full-time interns will earn a weekly stipend paid at the end of each month

  • Opportunity to collaborate with community leaders and volunteers

  • 500 Festival branded apparel

  • Two tickets to the AES 500 Festival Parade

  • Two tickets to the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge

    Please note: No relocation or housing assistance is provided.

 

Have questions about our internship programs?  Email us at info@500festival.com

Providing Valuable Experience For Future Professionals

Providing Valuable Experience For Future Professionals
“I have a new-found confidence in myself and my ability to take on a job in events in the future. I also feel like I know more about the event industry and the logistics and small details that go unnoticed but are pertinent to the event as a whole.”
“I loved being an intern at the 500 Festival because of the quick pace and the number of responsibilities I had. I loved the workplace and being able to collaborate with many different departments as well. My favorite part of the entire experience was getting to know my fellow interns and being hands-on in many different projects!”
“Interning at the 500 Festival gave me hands on experience and taught me so many skills that I took with me to further my career in the event industry! Everyone there was willing to help and show us the ropes! This was the best learning experience. It’s a great environment and neat opportunity to work so closely with the community!”
“By putting your sweat into these life-enriching events, you will leave your footprint on the city of Indianapolis and create unforgettable memories. I’ve never worked harder, but I’ve also never had more fun than I did with the 500 Festival and the other interns who became life-long friends.”
“The 500 Festival will really prepare you for the professional world. You’ll grow your network, build relationships with staff and other interns, and have once-in-a-lifetime experiences.”