National Intern Day, observed annually on July 30, is a holiday dedicated to recognizing and celebrating interns, the future leaders of the world. Created and launched by the company WayUp in 2017, the day serves as an opportunity for thousands of employers to commemorate and thank their hardworking interns. The holiday has brought national attention to the challenges and inequalities faced by entry-level candidates, inspiring investments into internship programs and interns themselves. National Intern Day also marks the release of WayUp's annual coveted 100 Top Internship Programs List, which showcases employers who have gone above and beyond for their interns. The #1 spot on this list is awarded to the organization that stands out most when it comes to prioritizing their internship program, intern development and engagement, and workplace growth. Additional awards include the Public Service Award for programs fostering meaningful engagement that benefits the public good, and an award recognizing the employer that best creates opportunities for interns to become confident, well-prepared early career professionals.
For employers and teams planning to celebrate, the day represents a golden opportunity to give the ultimate shoutout to a vital part of the team: interns. These career-driven professionals are present-day difference makers who bring energy, curiosity, and a much-needed good vibe to companies. They boost morale with committed excellence, show up with hot takes in meetings, and drop occasional genius ideas that merit recognition. Celebrating interns can boost team morale and show appreciation for their hard work. Nowadays, many summer interns do more than fetch coffee; some of these young professionals can pull as much weight as any full-time employee. That’s why National Intern Day is so important—as long as it is celebrated the right way. When interns feel appreciated, they are more likely to stay engaged, share new ideas, and view the company as a place they want to grow long-term. According to a Gallup study, employees who feel appreciated are 4.6 times more likely to perform their best work, which is a mindset that begins well before their first full-time role. Furthermore, 60% of interns are offered full-time positions after completing their internships, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). However, stats for internal mobility would be higher if more companies treated intern recognition as more than an afterthought. Interns represent future employees, brand advocates, and leaders in training. When companies compliment, praise, and recognize them, they reinforce a culture that values people from day one.
Virtual Intern Appreciation Day Ideas
National Intern Day is just as important, if not more, for remote interns who may be missing hallway high-fives, team lunches, and in-person positive energy. With creativity and good intentions, companies can plan a virtual Intern Appreciation Day that feels personal, fun, and inclusive. Practical virtual National Intern Day ideas can make interns feel special.
One popular idea is to host a Virtual Happy Hour. This gives interns a chance to let loose and socialize beyond their screens. This can be an event that doubles as an online mixology class, hosted by an award-winning mixologist. Groups can learn to make a couple of delicious cocktails, with kits with fresh ingredients delivered directly to their door. Games, icebreakers, and trivia create space for laughter, casual conversation, and connection with coworkers in all company corners.
Another thoughtful approach is to send Personalized Care Packages. There’s something special about receiving unexpected, fun mail. Employers can create intern-specific boxes with snacks, company-custom swag (such as mugs, socks, and notebooks), and a handwritten, personalized note of appreciation. It is recommended to skip cookie-cutter language and make it personal by mentioning something each intern contributed while working with the business, highlighting and praising their efforts.
A Virtual Project Showcase is another excellent way to give interns the spotlight. This involves a short, structured presentation where interns walk through a project, an idea, or a takeaway from their internship. This will make interns feel valued and appreciated while giving them something fun to remember their internship experience by.
National Intern Day Gift Ideas
There are numerous gift ideas to consider for National Intern Day. A Digital Group Card is an awesome gift that is easy to make, heartfelt, and inclusive. These eCards make employee recognition simple by enabling everyone to leave heartfelt messages from their own devices, then automatically delivering the eCard on the special day. Everyone on the lucky intern’s team can add personal well wishes, photos, and/or videos to the card—all of which will make them feel appreciated.
Companies can also celebrate by giving interns a novelty item or two. Think custom bobbleheads or quirky stress balls. These gifts are fun and can lighten the mood for a National Intern Day Celebration. They are also great for social media channels. Encouraging interns to share their new swag online can help build company culture, aid recruitment operations, and provide a good laugh for everyone.
Engraved items are another option. There’s nothing funny about engraved items—until you inscribe a humorous message. For instance, you might give the folks in your internship program a glass water bottle that says, “Stay hydrated, stay sharp!” Or a personalized pen that says “World’s Best Intern.” These gifts are silly, but also useful, which makes them a great option for National Intern Day.
National Intern Day Party Ideas
Celebrating with a party or event can be a memorable way to honor interns. One idea is to plan a funny event instead of giving a funny gift. Office Olympics fit the bill. Have each of your interns compete in events like paperclip pick-up, pencil sharpener races, or coffee mug stacking—things that fit their internship roles. Then give out gag prizes to the winners. This gives interns a chance to enjoy themselves and not have to work for a few hours.
Conclusion
National Intern Day, established by WayUp in 2017 and celebrated annually on July 30, provides a dedicated platform for employers to recognize the contributions of interns. The day is accompanied by the release of WayUp's 100 Top Internship Programs List, highlighting organizations that excel in intern development and engagement. Effective celebration strategies range from virtual events like mixology classes and project showcases to tangible gifts such as digital cards, novelty items, and engraved products. The focus is on making appreciation personal and meaningful, which can improve intern morale, engagement, and potential for future full-time employment. By investing in thoughtful recognition, companies reinforce a culture that values early-career professionals and their future leadership.