
Summer Internship for the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival In New York
Description: The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York is an annual sporting and multicultural event held each August on Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens. Celebrating the fifth month of the lunar calendar, the festival showcases traditional Chinese food, performances, and races featuring over 120 dragon boat teams from across North America, making it one of the largest dragon boat festivals in the U.S.
The festival began in 1990, originally organized by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office. It has since become an independent non-profit, growing our fleet of dragon boats from four teak wood boats to over 30 fiberglass boats, all approved by the International Dragon Boat Federation. 2025 marks the 35th Anniversary of the festival.
Events include the NY Championship Race, the U.S. Dragon Boat Open Championship Race, an opening parade, and a range of races for youth, women, sponsors, media, and charities. Additionally, a vibrant arts and entertainment program will feature multicultural performances, folk art demonstrations, and a food court offering a diverse menu. And as always, Free Admission, Rain or Shine!
Administrative / Executive Duties - Festival Logistics (Event Planning/Project Management) - Press/Media (PR & Marketing) - VIP Relations (Event Planning)
Duties and Responsibilities - Project planning and cost analysis - Collaborate with multiple entities including sponsors, participants, vendors, and NYC municipal organizations/elected officials leading up to the festival as well as during the festival. - Assist with creation, editing and promotion of marketing materials - Work in fast paced, deadline-driven environment - Understanding unique needs and challenges of non-profit organizations.
Qualifications - Strong verbal and written communication - Effective time management and organizational skills - Ability to leverage interpersonal skills to work in a team environment - Proficient using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) - Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and manage unforeseen challenges. - 18 years of age and authorized to work in the US without sponsorship - Available to work in New York City from May/June through Mid-August, with increasing hours leading to the festival. Preferred Qualifications: - Previous Customer Service Experience - Demonstrated Problem Solving and Analytical skills - Ability to operate and thrive in an ambiguous environment - Fluent or conversational ability to speak/understand Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese)