Students and recent graduates can apply now for paid, hands-on roles in operations, marketing, partnerships, and administration 

INDIANAPOLIS (September 2, 2026) – The 500 Festival is now accepting applications for its 2027 Internship Program, offering college students a unique experience to plan, manage, and execute more than 30 community events and programs that engage more than 500,000 people annually. These full-time, paid internships provide college credit and will be filled on a rolling basis. 

Internships run January through the first week of June 2027. Positions are available across multiple departments including: 

• Business Administration
• Event Operations 
• Graphic Design 
• Marketing and Communications 
• Registration and Event Services 
• Strategic Partnerships 

Selected interns will gain valuable hands-on professional experience and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the month of May in Indianapolis. Interns will work on historic signature events, including the Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K, the Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade, Breakfast at the Brickyard, presented by CHA, and more. Throughout the program, interns will build leadership skills, connect with business and civic partners, and contribute to events that leave a lasting impact across Indiana. 

Additional benefits include: 

• Networking with 500 Festival and Foundation board members, staff, and community leaders 

• Tickets to the Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade, Indianapolis 500 Qualifications, and the 111th Running of the Indianapolis 500 

• Discounts for friends and family to 500 Festival events 

• Lifelong connections with fellow interns and volunteers 

“Our Internship Program is designed to empower the next generation of leaders by giving them real-world experience. They’ll play an important role in producing high-quality and iconic events for the Indianapolis community and beyond,” said Dave Neff, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “We’re excited to welcome the 2027 class and provide the experiences they’re seeking to launch their careers.” 

“Being part of the 500 Festival Internship Program was one of the most impactful and rewarding experiences of my college career,” said Sarah Bambrick, 2026 digital marketing intern. “I gained new marketing skills and knowledge that have continued to shape my career. I am so grateful for the relationships and experiences I gained along the way, as well as the lasting impact the 500 Festival had on me.” 

Applications are reviewed as they are received. For more information or to apply, visit 500festival.com/intern. 

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About 500 Festival | Founded in 1957, the 500 Festival is a not-for-profit organization that produces more than 40 life-enriching events and programs while celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500® and fostering a positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. One of the largest festivals in the nation, each year more than half a million people attend an event or program produced by the 500 Festival. Since its founding, the 500 Festival has contributed more than $500 million in economic value to Indianapolis. To learn more about the 500 Festival, please visit 500festival.com or follow us on Facebook, and Instagram.