Intern Program
An INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!
Each spring, the 500 Festival hosts a group of diverse and highly motivated college interns to gain a wealth of professional experience and get a behind-the-scenes view into the month of May in Indianapolis. We are looking for the most passionate students who aren’t afraid to make an impact, have fun, and work hard. If you’re looking for a career in events, have a willingness to learn, have the flexibility to put in some long hours in April and May, and you’d like to have a blast with a class of interns, then join us this spring and help us produce the greatest month-long series of events in the world.
Mission
Are you looking to make a BIG impact in Indy? Beyond working at one of the nation’s largest, most diverse festivals, 500 Festival Interns experience a behind-the-scenes look at the Month of May in Indianapolis and assist in the planning and execution of 500 Festival events and programs while gaining valuable industry insight. Each January, the 500 Festival welcomes a team of dedicated interns to support the 500 Festival and play a critical role in the planning and execution of 50 community-based events and programs, which impact over half a million people each year. Events include the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, the AES 500 Festival Parade, and so much more!
Interns will gain leadership development skills and access to unique professional development and networking opportunities. They have the unique opportunity to participate in sessions led by business and community leaders, professional development events, and so much more. 500 Festival Interns develop professional skills, build their resumes, and network with industry professionals.
Internship Opportunities & Applications
There are a variety of internships available that begin in January and conclude at the end of May, and we invite college and graduate students from a variety of majors to apply. The 500 Festival Intern Program consists of full-time, paid opportunities. Applications opened on August 29, 2023, and positions will be filled on a rolling basis.
- Event & Program Operations Internship (4 positions available)
- Event Operations Internship
- Digital Marketing Internship
- Communications Internship
- Volunteer Program Internship
- Strategic Partnership Internship
- Customer Relations & Ticketing Internship
- Youth Programs Internship
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 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge
No relocation or housing assistance is provided.
Providing Valuable Experience for Future Professionals
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
Questions?
Email us at internprogram@500festival.com