Event Marketing Internship, Christkindlmarket Chicago 2026 (Start Date Spring/Summer 2026)

Note to applicants: The Christkindlmarket interns will need to work out of the GACC Midwest office in downtown Chicago. As such, applicants must either currently reside in the Chicago area or be available for relocation before the start date of the internship.

Compensation: $2900/monthStart Dates: We are looking for interns who can start in May or early June 2026Duration: 9-12 months, full-time

Who we are: The mission of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) is to promote and assist in the expansion of bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States. All internships offer the opportunity to gain work experience in a truly bilingual and bicultural environment, with support from colleagues that can help speed the learning curve of understanding intercultural differences and nuances.   

The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events & intercultural activities. It brings a cherished German and European tradition with international flair and local charm to Chicago. Chicago's Christkindlmarket was first conceptualized in 1995.

Responsibilities:

• Support all aspects of organizing one of the world's largest holiday markets outside of Germany on-site and virtually
• Event marketing activities such as influencer marketing, filming and editing of videos, social media assistance, graphic design
• Assist with activities related to event planning and coordination, mainly conceptualization and execution of special events, sponsor activations, influencer tours and performing important administrative tasks
• On-site market support during the months of November and December, including interacting with visitors, assisting with the support of  vendor and sponsor needs, and helping to prepare the venue for special events, like tastings and parades
• Interact with visitors and customers in person and virtually

Requirements:

• Recent graduate, ideally with first work experience
• High-level proficiency in the English language, German language skills are of advantage
• Knowledge of Canva and Adobe Illustrator/InDesign are of advantage
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Power Point)
• Newsletter writing and basic website maintenance knowledge of advantage
• Strong research, communication, and organizational skills (verbal and written)
• Strong interest in full-cycle event planning and behind the scenes logistics
• Customer service skills

Why join German American Events LLC (GAE)?

Our organization strives to provide our interns with an environment that allows them to succeed in every aspect of their role. Our interns have the opportunity to gain the ability to put new things into practice and network and meet key members in our extensive membership base while learning more about German-American business efforts happening day in and day out.

With a beautiful, state-of-the-art office space in the heart of the city overlooking Millennium Park, interns are able to easily navigate throughout Downtown Chicago and experience the rich culture the city has to offer – such as complimentary German lessons offered by the Goethe Institute specifically for our employees. Within our office building, all GAE team members have access to the fitness center with free classes being offered regularly as well as general community events as planned by the building staff.