500 Festival Event and Program Operations Internship, Spring 2026
January 13 – May 28, 2026
Supervisor: Program & Event Manager
Are you looking to make a BIG impact in the city of Indianapolis? The 500 Festival is looking for 12 interns to help produce the greatest series of programs and events! 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.
- Hours Requirement: Internship positions are considered full-time, with 40 hours per week requested. In-office work hours are generally 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Must be willing to work long hours and an irregular schedule, which will include weekends, evenings, and every weekend in May.
- Compensation: Intern will earn a weekly stipend of $400. Stipend will be paid at the end of each month. No relocation or housing assistance is provided.
The 500 Festival is a not-for-profit organization that was created in 1957 to produce events and programs that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and foster a positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. Today, the 500 Festival has grown to become one of the nation’s largest and most respected festivals, engaging more than half a million people throughout its events and programs each year. Events include the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, the 500 Festival Parade, and so many more!
Responsibilities:
- Assist with coordination of the 500 Festival Indy Mini Expo and the 500 Festival JPMorganChase Kids’ Day
- Assist with recruitment, management and organization of Indy Mini Expo and Kids’ Day vendors and exhibitors.
- Call and email prospective vendors to sell booth spaces for the Indy Mini Expo and Kids’ Day, including cold outreach and follow-up communication
- Learn about and participate in event set up, tear down, and production of all 500 Festival events and programs (consists of early morning and late nights, weekends, and every weekend throughout the month of May).
- Assist with committee meetings and meeting minutes for Kids’ Day
- Support the development and implementation of event timelines, checklists, and production schedules
- Coordinate with internal departments (marketing, registration, strategic partnerships, etc.) to ensure event needs are met
- Communicate with vendors, suppliers, and service providers to confirm event logistics and deliverables
- Help manage event inventory, supplies, and equipment, including preparation, transportation, and on-site setup
- Assist with recruitment, training, scheduling, and management of event volunteers and committee members
- Assist with drafting event materials, such as operations manuals, maps, and run-of-show documents
- Provide general administrative support to the Operations team and supervisors as needed
Requirements:
- Training and/or experience in meeting/event planning, recreation, youth programming, special events or a related field is recommended.
- Possess strong written/verbal communication skills.
- Are a team player with exceptional organizational and computer skills.
- Are self-motivated and takes initiative; can manage and balance multiple projects/tasks at one time.
- Have strong attention to detail.
- Demonstrate a high level of enthusiasm.
- Possess a willingness to learn and adjust/adapt to changing deadlines.
- Must have the stamina to work long hours and must be willing to work an irregular schedule, which will include weekends and evenings.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
Application Process:
- Candidates with directly relevant skills and background are encouraged to apply with a cover letter and resume.
- Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis as applications are received.
- Interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams or in-person. The format will be determined by the supervisor and based on location and availability.
- We may also consider your application for other positions as part of our recruitment process.
Benefits:
- Experience a behind-the-scenes look at the Month of May in Indianapolis.
- Hands-on industry experience.
- 500 Festival branded apparel.
- Two tickets to the 500 Festival Parade.
- Two tickets to the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500, presented by Gainbridge.
