Event Management Internship
2026 Des Moines Arts Festival
Event Management Internship
Application closes November 21, 2025
Festival Dates: June 26-28, 2026
Location: Des Moines, IA
Duration: starting mid-February, 12 hours/week through spring semester (hybrid option), full time starting end of semester through July 24 (in office).
Positions Available: One
About Us:
The Des Moines Arts Festival is a 501c3 non-profit organization that produces an annual arts and culture festival in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The Festival is one of the world's most prestigious and admired festivals with an annual attendance exceeding 200,000 guests. The Festival includes an international juried art fair, two stages with national touring and local musicians, food vendors, the Student Art Exhibition, the Community Outreach Program, Interrobang Film Festival, and a plethora of interactive act activities…all free of charge!
Our Mission: Impact Lives through the Arts
Job Summary:
The Des Moines Arts Festival is looking for a motivated and energetic intern to support the planning and execution of programs that bring the Festival to life. In this hands-on role, you’ll receive valuable experience in logistics, operations, and guest engagement. In addition to the distinguished experience (and stellar addition to your resume!), interns receive a monthly stipend.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct research and manage data for various festival components
- Assist in the management and on-site execution of festival programs (specifically entertainment, food vendors, and Community Outreach Program).
- Communicate effectively with entertainment, vendors, and non-profits via email & phone regarding applications, contracts, COI, marketing materials, deadline reminders, signage, financial tracking, on-site information, etc.
- Participate in manual labor tasks, including load in and load out of festival materials
- Assist in compiling information for post-festival reports
Qualifications:
- Strong work ethic with the ability to think proactively to seek solutions to challenges
- Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task
- Strong time management skills
- Motivated self-starter capable of working independently
- Adaptable and efficient in a fast-paced environment
- Team player with a positive attitude and coachable demeanor
- Willingness to learn and use new technology platforms
Interested in joining the team? Please submit your cover letter and resume online: https://www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/internships