Internship Opportunites
Join the Des Moines Arts Festival staff in the carefully detailed preparation and execution of the award-winning Festival. This is a fun-packed position that builds a diverse set of new skills and experiences!
We're looking for college students who are detail-oriented, adaptable and efficient in a fast-paced environment, and who want to dip their toes in the festival and event industry! Learn more about DMAF by checking out our 2025 final report.
​
We’re seeking two graphic design interns and one event management intern to join our team in 2026. Internships begin part-time in February (about 12 hours/week, hybrid, with flexibility for school schedules), then transition to full-time, in-office May–July—with great summer hours in July! Interns receive a monthly stipend. Applications are open through November 21, 2025.
Graphic Design Internship Information
Event Management Internship Information
Heath Wheeldon
Graphic Design Intern, 2023
I loved my time at Des Moines Arts Festival because of the professional opportunities to create physical products for a massive audience, and the people that were able to help me along the way professionally and personally. I’m very grateful for my time there, I learned an immense amount of valuable knowledge.
Zoey Lohse
Waukee Intern, 2023
This experience deepened my appreciation for the arts and helped grow my skills in event planning and management immensely. I was able to connect with many industry leaders while also making wonderful friendships with all of the other interns and Event Management Team!
Colby Schwantes
Programs Intern, 2024
I enjoyed my internship at the Des Moines Arts Festival due to its real world application into my major. It helped grow my communication and time management skills while working on time sensitive projects. Overall, a great environment with even greater people!
Julia Smith
Programs Intern, 2024
My internship with the Des Moines Arts Festival allowed me to develop a greater understanding of my interests within the event planning and non-profit sphere. I gained confidence in my ability to communicate in professional settings, navigate unexpected events during the festival, and successfully balance a variety of tasks. The amazing DMAF team and group of interns made this experience even better!