Olga Gurton
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PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
DIRECTORY
Click on the links below to quickly access each section
Packages & Venue Rates
Approved Caterers
Bumper Car Pavilion Diagram
Cuddle Up Pavilion Diagram
Spanish Ballroom Diagram
Ballroom Back Room Diagram
FAQs - Weddings
FAQs - General
Recommended Vendors
Barabara O Photography
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
WEDDING PACKAGES
Packages are valid for events held from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027*
*prices are subject to change
Peak: April - June, September & October Off Peak: July & August, November - March
Bumper Car Pavilion Packages
Rental Time 10am - 1am
A Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion
B
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion + Grassy Circle
Saturday | $5,250
Friday & Sunday* | $4,750
Saturday | $5,550
Friday & Sunday* | $5,050
For off peak months, rentals fees are reduced by $1,000 for packages A & B
Rental Time 8am - 6pm
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion + Grassy Circle
Saturday | $3,750
Friday & Sunday* | $3,250
Saturday | $4,050
Friday & Sunday* | $3,550
For off peak months, rentals fees are reduced by $500 for packages C & D
Rental Times are inclusive of deliveries, set up, event time, and clean up
* Packages are only available on weekends (Friday - Sunday) and Holiday Mondays Saturday rates will apply to Sundays prior to Holiday Mondays; Sunday rates will apply to Holiday Mondays
**NOTE: Additional hours cannot be added to packages**
Guide to our Packages (suggestions only):
Package A & C –
Package B & D –
Option 1: Ceremony in CUP; Cocktail Hour & Reception in BCP
Option 2: Cocktail Hour in CUP; Reception in BCP
Option 3: Ceremony in BCP; Cocktail Hour in CUP; Reception in BCP
Option 1: Ceremony in GC; Cocktail Hour in CUP; Reception in BCP
Option 2: Ceremony in GC; Lounge or Games in CUP; Reception in BCP
Bumper Car Pavilion?
Spanish Ballroom Package
Rental Time 10am - 1am
Spanish Ballroom w/ Carpet installed by Glen Echo Park Partnership
Carpet coverage - color Black
[Required whenever food & drinks are served and consumed on main ballroom floor]
May - September
Saturday | $8,500 + carpet coverage
Friday & Sunday* | $7,500 + carpet coverage
1/2 (5 rolls: 60 ft) - $7,000
3/4 (7 rolls: 84 ft) - $8,000
Full (9 rolls: 104 ft) - $9,000
For off peak months, venue rentals fees are reduced by $1,000
Carousel Add-On
1 hour + unlimited rides | $450
2 consecutive hours + unlimited rides | $750
Additional Times
Saturday - Sunday: 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm (outside operating hours)
Wednesday - Friday: 2:30 pm - 9:30 pm (May - August)
*If the event occurs during normal carousel operating hours (see FAQs), Renter must purchase individual carousel tickets
**The carousel must remain open to the public at all times As such, members of the public may also ride during any additional hours
***This carousel add-on may only be combined with a Bumper Car Pavilion or Spanish Ballroom rental
Additional Venues for Wedding Packages
Looking for “get ready” spaces? The Hall of Mirrors and Arcade Classrooms are options that can be added closer to your event date
Looking for a different ceremony option? Consider the Crystal Pool Lawn, located next to the playground A nice nature backdrop to your ceremony or rent a tent and make it your own, like the couple did on page 11 in our events brochure The CPL can be added to a package, not swapped If you are interested in just the CPL and BCP, please refer to the “Venue Only Rates” on pages 5 & 6
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
CORPORATE & SOCIAL PACKAGES
Packages are valid for events held from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027*
*prices are subject to change
Peak: April - June, September & October
Off Peak: July & August, November - March
Bumper Car Pavilion Packages
Rental Time 8am - 6pm
Saturday | $3,750
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion + Putt Putt Tent + Garden Area
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion + Spanish Ballroom
Friday & Sunday* | $3,250
Monday* - Thursday | $2,750
Saturday | $4,050
Friday & Sunday* | $3,550
Monday* - Thursday | $3,050
Saturday | $7,250
Friday & Sunday* | $6,750 Monday* - Thursday | $6,250
For off peak months, rentals fees are reduced by $500 for packages E, F and G
Rental Time 10am - 1am
Saturday | $5,250
Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion
H I Bumper Car Pavilion + Cuddle Up Pavilion + Putt Putt Tent + Garden Area
Friday & Sunday* | $4,750
Monday* - Thursday | $3,750
Saturday | $5,550
Friday & Sunday* | $5,050
Monday* - Thursday | $4,050
For off peak months, rentals fees are reduced by $1,000 for packages H & I
Rental Times are inclusive of deliveries, set up, event time, and clean up
* Saturday rates will apply to Sundays prior to Holiday Mondays; Sunday rates will apply to Holiday Mondays
**NOTE: Additional hours cannot be added to packages**
Spanish Ballroom Package
Rental Time 10am - 1am
Spanish Ballroom w/Carpet installed by Glen Echo Park Partnership
Carpet coverage - color Black
[Required whenever food & drinks are served and consumed on main ballroom floor]
May - September
Saturday | $8,500 + carpet fee
Friday & Sunday* | $7,500 + carpet fee
Monday* - Thursday | $6,500 + carpet fee
1/2 (5 rolls: 60ft) - $7,000
3/4 (7 rolls: 84 ft) - $8,000
Full (9 rolls: 104 ft) - $9,000
For off peak months, venue rentals fees are reduced by $1,000
Carousel Add-On
1 hour + unlimited rides | $450
2 consecutive hours + unlimited rides | $750
Additional Times
Saturday - Sunday: 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm (outside operating hours)
Wednesday - Friday: 2:30 pm - 9:30 pm (May - August)
*If the event occurs during normal carousel operating hours (see FAQs), Renter must purchase individual carousel tickets
**The carousel must remain open to the public at all times As such, members of the public may also ride during any additional hours
***This carousel add-on may only be combined with a Bumper Car Pavilion or Spanish Ballroom rental
Additional Venues for Corporate/Social Packages
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
2027 VENUE-ONLY RATES
Rates are valid for events held from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027*
*prices are subject to change
Peak: April - June, September & October Off Peak: July & August, November - March
Bumper Car Pavilion
Rental Time
10 am to 1 am (15 hours)
8 am to 6 pm (10 hours)
Friday & Sunday* Monday* - Thursday
& Sunday* Monday* - Thursday
Spanish Ballroom
Off Peak Add’l Hours
| $250
|
| $150
| $250
| $200
| $150
Rental Time
10 am to 1 am (15 hours)
8 am to 6 pm (10 hours)
Saturday Friday & Sunday* Monday* - Thursday
Saturday Friday & Sunday*
Monday* - Thursday
Off
Add’l
| $500
|
| $400
| $500 $850 | $450 $800 | $400
Rental Times are inclusive of deliveries, set up, event time, and clean up
* Saturday rates will apply to Sundays prior to Holiday Mondays; Sunday rates will apply to Holiday Mondays
**The carousel add-on can only be combined with a Bumper Car Pavilion or Spanish Ballroom rental Pricing on page 2 or 4
***All Venues on pages 5 & 6 can still be combined with one another, however, the rental times and pricing are strictly enforced
Cuddle Up Pavilion*
*Due to its close proximity to the Bumper Car Pavilion, the availability of the Cuddle Up Pavilion may be restricted due to events scheduled in the neighboring pavilion
Ballroom Back Room
Crystal Pool Lawn
Additional Venues
Additional Fees and Services
Refundable Security Deposit
– $250 for Cuddle Up Pavilion, Ballroom Back Room & Crystal Pool Lawn – $500 for Spanish Ballroom & Bumper Car Pavilion
Projector & Screen Combo
In-House Sound System – $100; available for Spanish Ballroom & Bumper Car Pavilion – $50; separately $30
Clear Acrylic Podium – $50
Looking for corporate or off site meeting space? Consider the Ballroom Back Room or Arcade classrooms
Looking for rehearsal space for your dance or theater group? Contact our staff to discuss our options
Not seeing an option for the type of event you ’ re planning? Contact us to explore your options:
or 301-634-2229
JasmineYabPhotography CUP
StephanieDeePhotography
BarbaraOPhotography
BarbaraOPhotography
GrassyCircle
KristenGardnerPhotography
Carousel
BarbaraOPhotography KristenGardnerPhotography
JasmineYabPhotography
JasmineYabPhotography
OlgaGurtonPhotography
OlgaGurtonPhotography
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK APPROVED
CATERERS
Polly Hahn phahn@cateringbyseasonscom
Maria Palacio 7037879222 mpalacio@tctcatererscom
Martha Corcoran 3015889200 martha@corcorancatererscom
Kara Hollingsworth 2404726547 khawa@deliciousgourmetcom
Ellen Kassoff 2023318118 ellen@equinoxrestaurantcom
Bob Egan 3014280650 bob@highpointcateringcom
Sarah Miller 7038202028 info@maineventcatererscom
Sydney Morgan 2025467400 smorgan@occasionscatererscom
Nicole Whitties 301.907.3734 nwhitties@ridgewellscom
Celeste Bendetti 2025246801 celeste@rougecateringcom
Justin Dekelbaum 2402900032 skarimi2@aolcom
Geoff Barker 2406852500 geoffbarker@simplyfresheventscom
Heather Ellis 2025256455 heather@spilledmilkcateringcom
Timber Pizza Co
Erica Hoffman 2403936604 erica@timberpizzacom
Yulia Shegai 2025437878 yshegai@welldunncom
Karol Cristales 7035193500 karol@cateringcom
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
BUMPER CAR PAVILION
DETAILS
Historic structure with a vintage & rustic feel
Unique & versatile venue, from whimsy to chic
Open-air covered pavilion - 4,600 sq ft
Clear, retractable plastic sidewalls
Industrial fans, overhead radiant heaters
Speciality lights on beams
Great for weddings, mitzvahs, company picnics, celebrations of life, parties & more
Stage and sound system = Outlets - located within the grates of the floor = Outlets - located on the stage
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
CUDDLE UP PAVILION
DETAILS
Great for ceremony, cocktail hour, birthday & graduation parties
Cozy & intimate venue, with playful neon sign
Open-air covered pavilion - 1,950 sq ft
Speciality string lights
Ceiling fans
Large stage
Bleacher seating available
CEREMONY
150 - 200 guests
COCKTAIL
150 - 200 guests
SEATED
60-75 guests
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
SPANISH BALLROOM
DETAILS
Historic building with a Spanish art deco design
Original 1933 dance floor - 7,000 sq ft
Dimmable house lights
3 tier stage with grand piano and stage lighting
No HVAC - windows open, industrial fans provided
No food or drink allowed on bare floor, must be carpeted
Great for weddings, mitzvahs, galas, fundraisers, celebrations of life, proms & more
SEATED DINNER
with dancing - 300-350 guests
without dancing - 450 guests
STANDING ROOM
Cocktail - 600 guests
Dance - 870 guests
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK BALLROOM BACK ROOM
DETAILS
In-house sound system
Climate-controlled year r Maple wood floors - 1,50
Custom fixed and retract box theater style
Connected to the Spanis separate entrance
Great for adult parties, c meetings, baby showers,
STANDING
100 guests
SEATED
60-75
= retractable curtains
= Fixed curtain
PrivateRentals GLEN ECHO PARK
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WEDDINGS
Can I tour the venue(s)?
Of course! Venue tours are scheduled by appointment Click here to make your appointment or contact us at rentals@glenechopark.org.
How long can I hold a date?
You can hold a date free of charge for up to 14 days
What is the booking and contract process?
Within the 14-day hold period, we require that you fill out a facility rental information form. This form will allow us to draw up your contract Once the contract is sent to you, you have two weeks to return the contract to us signed and with your first deposit We do not require a deposit until you have had a chance to review the contract If the form is not received within the 14-day hold period, your hold will automatically expire
What is your payment schedule?
Depending on when you book your event, our standard payment schedule is 25% due approximately two (2) weeks after the contract is sent to you, another 25% due four (4) months prior to your event, and the remaining 50% due six (6) weeks prior to your event Note - payment schedules may vary based on venue and initial time of booking
How can I pay?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and check You will receive an invoice from Square Credit card fees do not apply
Are there any discounts available?
There are discounts for higher-level donors Please ask the Partnership staff to see if your contribution qualifies for a discount.
What times can I rent the facility?
Please refer to the Venue Rate sheet as timeframes can vary based on packages and venues. All timeframes are inclusive of set up, the event time, and clean up Additional hours cannot be added to a package
Individual venues are also available for rent Some venues have set rental timeframes and others have minimum rental hours with additional hours based on availability Rental times for all of our spaces include the time needed for set up, event time and clean up
What is included with the facility?
Your rental fee pays for the use of the space only Any benches, fans and speciality lights already in the venue are included with the rental fee as well We do not provide any tables, chairs or other additional equipment or supplies for events, but these can be supplied by catering companies or any other rental companies Tables and chairs used in our spaces must have rubber, felt, or wooden feet in order to prevent damage A catering tent is available April - November for Bumper Car Pavilion rentals.
Do you provide event coordination services?
No, we do not offer event planning or coordinating services We highly recommend hiring a wedding or day-of coordinator for your special day to help ensure your event runs smoothly
Our Venue Manager will help guide you through your venue booking process, answer any questions during your planning stages, offer vendor recommendations, provide insight on previous events and is available for tours and event walkthroughs. On the day of your event, an Event Supervisor will be onsite throughout the entire time of your event
Will someone from the venue be there for my event?
Yes We have Event Supervisors that will be onsite throughout the entire event, from set up to clean up
Our staff is here for any venue related questions, to ensure the safety of park visitors during load in and out, enforcing any policies or rules of the venue, and troubleshooting and problem solving venue and park related situations that may arise The Event Supervisor is not an event coordinator and they are not required to assist in set up, clean up or any logistics for the event
Do I have exclusive use of the Park for my event?
No Glen Echo Park is a National Park and it must stay open to the public Public hours are 6 am to 1 am. Frequent visitors of the park are aware we have private rentals and respect rentals that occur here. To help with public awareness, we do stanchion areas off depending on the set up of the event
What catering companies do you allow?
If the event is to be catered, the caterer must be selected from among these fifteen approved caterers. These full service caterers are qualified to provide food service at the park They are familiar with the venue and can assist you with layout and equipment needed for your event. They are also aware of the rules and regulations we require to prep, cook, and serve food on site As a full service caterer, they will do everything event related (set up, food/beverage service, clean up, and trash removal) Some caterers also provide event planning services
Catering by Seasons • The Chef’s Table
Corcoran Caterers • Delicious Gourmet
Equinox Restaurant • High Point Events & Catering
Main Event Caterers • Occasions Caterers
Ridgewells Catering • Rouge Fine Catering
Signature Caterers • Simply Fresh Events
Spilled Milk Catering • Timber Pizza
Well Dunn Catering • Windows Catering Company
Praline at Glen Echo Park also provides delicious and beautiful special occasion cakes! Contact information for these caterers can be supplied upon request
If none of our approved caterers can fulfill the special dietary or cultural food needs for your event, accommodations can be made to use an outside full service caterer for an additional fee Contact us for more information
What if I want to provide my own food?
If the event is not catered by an approved caterer and you would like to have drop off catering or potluck/home cooked food, a self-catering fee will apply With this option, you are responsible for setting up, cleaning up, and ensuring the venue is returned back to its original condition Food cannot be cooked on site Please contact us for more information
Can I have a food truck for my event?
Yes, food trucks are allowed However, different rules and fees apply depending on the capacity in which you would like to use them Please contact us for more information
Are there any restrictions in regards to alcohol?
Since Glen Echo Park is a National Park, you must apply for an Alcoholic Beverage Permit through the National Park Service in order to serve alcohol The Partnership will provide the application form and submit the completed form on your behalf at no fee Only beer, wine, hard seltzer (without distilled liquor), and champagne may be served; all hard liquor is prohibited and there is no exception to this rule Food must be served at an event with alcohol
You may supply the alcoholic beverages for the event or go through the caterer All alcohol must be controlled, opened and served by the caterer ’ s personnel or a certified bartending company Both service and consumption of alcohol are restricted to only the venue(s) you have rented
Can I have my wedding ceremony at the Park?
Yes There are few places to have your ceremony at Glen Echo, depending on how many people you are expecting and what you are looking for in a ceremony site The throwing of seeds, confetti or rice is prohibited but bubbles or flower petals are allowed, depending on the venue Ceremony sites are included in our wedding packages or can be rented as an additional space and have their own rental prices
Can I have my wedding rehearsal at the Park?
Yes, a wedding rehearsal is included in the rental fee Rehearsal times are subject to venue availability and must be scheduled in advance through the Venue Manager
Do I need a photography permit for my event?
A photography permit is not required as long as photos are taken on your event date. You may take photos anywhere on park grounds A permit through the National Park Service is required for any photoshoot outside of the event date If you are interested in taking photos in the Spanish Ballroom or the Carousel, a fee will apply
Do you have any get ready spaces?
We have two sizes of multipurpose rooms (single or double) available in the North Arcade building. We also have the Hall of Mirrors dance studio, which has two dressing rooms and a one-stall bathroom These locations are rented for an additional cost and can be confirmed closer to your event date Contact us for more details
Can I incorporate the park’s picnic tables in my event?
Picnic tables located in the middle of the park are for public use only. This area cannot be reserved. Alcohol is prohibited in this area Picnic tables cannot be moved from the picnic grove
Can the Carousel be open for my event?
The Carousel runs from May - September, with normal operating hours on Wednesday - Friday from 10 am - 2 pm, and Saturday - Sunday from 11 am - 5 pm If your event is scheduled during these hours, the Carousel will be running and the band organ will be playing. Bulk tickets for guests can be arranged in advance
The Carousel can also be operated for additional hours during the carousel season in conjunction with a Spanish Ballroom or Bumper Car Pavilion rental for an additional cost A minimum of one hour or a maximum of two consecutive hours can be arranged, starting no earlier than 5:30 pm and ending no later than 9:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, or 2:30 pm to 9:30 pm Wednesdays - Fridays. The Carousel Package includes the cost of rides for event attendees who ride the Carousel
The Carousel must remain open to all park visitors at all times, including any additional hours in conjunction with an event No exclusive use of the Carousel can be granted The Carousel cannot be operated outside of the Carousel’s normal operating season, but photoshoot opportunities may be arranged depending on availability.
Are there any decorating restrictions?
Since Glen Echo Park is a National Park and its buildings are historic properties, great care must be taken to protect and preserve these structures. The use of tape, command hooks, staples or nails to affix decorations or signs to the building is strictly prohibited Flammable substances and open flames are not permitted in or near ANY Park structure. Balloons are possible decorations, please contact us for more information
The ability to decorate on park grounds outside of your rented venue is very limited Decorations cannot be hung or attached to trees, light poles, or existing signage around the park Directional signage is permitted if you use a freestanding sign or yard/real estate signs with a stake size less than 3/4th of an inch
Are candles or Sternos permitted?
Because our buildings are historic, no open flames (including sternos) are allowed in or near any of the buildings As an alternative, LED candles and votives may be used
Is there a sound system in the facility?
The Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion have in-house sound systems The Ballroom and Pavilion also have a built-in stage If a house sound system is to be used, the designated person who will be operating it must be trained in advance by a member of the Partnership staff. Other spaces in the Park do not have a sound system Please contact the Venue Manager for additional information
Are there any music restrictions?
Live or DJ-provided music is permitted in the Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion All music must end by 11:30 pm for outdoor pavilions
Are there any other restrictions I should be aware of?
Since the Spanish Ballroom is an historic building, we take great care in preserving the original dance floor Because of this, the main Ballroom floor must be covered with a waterproof carpet wherever food or drink service and consumption will occur Carpet packages are available through the Partnership or we can recommend vendors that can provide this service at your own expense and arrangement
Since there is no heat in the Bumper Car Pavilion and Spanish Ballroom, can I bring in additional heaters?
The Bumper Car Pavilion has electric infrared heat panels that can help to heat parts of the space Additionally, the Bumper Car Pavilion has clear plastic sides that can be lowered to enclose the space Several of our vendors are able to provide auxiliary heating and cooling solutions for the Pavilion – ask us for more info! Large floor fans are in the Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion. Additional heating and cooling may be possible in the Spanish Ballroom with prior approval from NPS
How is parking at Glen Echo Park handled?
Parking is free at Glen Echo Park We have a large main lot off of Oxford Road that your guests may use Unfortunately, overnight parking is not allowed The parking lot located beneath the main “Glen Echo Park” sign requires a permit 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is limited parking available in the small parking lot off of MacArthur Blvd, which is permit-only seven days a week until 4:00 pm There are handicap parking spaces in all of these lots.
Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion rentals are allowed to hire a valet service for their event Golf carts are prohibited
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking and vaping is not allowed in any of our buildings or structures Smoking is permitted outside any of our buildings or structures, and there are receptacles in the park for safe cigarette disposal
Where are the restrooms located?
The main restrooms for the Bumper Car Pavilion are located in the comfort station, the red brick building next to the Carousel The Spanish Ballroom has restrooms located in the building
Do I need liability insurance for my event?
We do not require liability insurance for Bumper Car Pavilion events. You are welcome to get insurance at your own discretion Liability insurance is required for all Spanish Ballroom events.
What happens if the Park is closed due to inclement weather or power outage? If the Park must close for reasons related to severe inclement weather (snow, ice, hurricane), unsafe site conditions, power outages, or other unforeseeable circumstances, you will be allowed to reschedule the event based on availability, or receive a partial refund The Partnership will not be responsible for fees or costs incurred related to caterers, bands or other vendors due to rescheduling or cancellation
What is the cancellation policy?
Per our standard cancellation policy, if you cancel your event at least six (6) months prior to your event, you will be refunded the full amount of your payment less a $250 processing fee If you cancel your event at least four (4) months prior to your event, you will be refunded the full amount of your payment less a $500 processing fee If notification is received less than four (4) months prior to the date of the event, all rental fees collected to date will be forfeited, but you will receive a credit against the rental fee forfeiture if the venue is subsequently rented on the same date Please note that this cancellation policy may vary depending on the amount of time between your contract signing and event date
I love Glen Echo Park! What are my rental fees going towards?
All rental fees go back into the preservation of the park, upkeep of the venues and support of our public programs
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK GENERAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I tour the venue(s)?
Of course! Venue tours are scheduled by appointment Click here to make your appointment or contact us at rentals@glenechopark.org.
How long can I hold a date?
You can hold a date free of charge for up to 14 days.
What is the booking and contract process?
Within the 14-day hold period, we require that you fill out a facility rental information form. This form will allow us to draw up your contract Once the contract is sent to you, you have two weeks to return the contract to us signed and with your first deposit We do not require a deposit until you have had a chance to review the contract If the form is not received within the 14-day hold period, your hold will automatically expire
What is your payment schedule?
Depending on when you book your event, our standard payment schedule is 25% due approximately two (2) weeks after the contract is sent to you, another 25% due four (4) months prior to your event, and the remaining 50% due six (6) weeks prior to your event Note - payment schedules may vary based on venue and initial time of booking
How can I pay?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and check You will receive an invoice from Square Credit card fees do not apply
Are there any discounts available?
There are discounts for higher-level donors Please ask the Partnership staff to see if your contribution qualifies for a discount. We do offer a 10% discount for 501 (3)(c) nonprofit organizations.
What times can I rent the facility?
Please refer to the Venue Rate sheet as timeframes can vary based on packages and venues. All timeframes are inclusive of set up, the event time, and clean up Additional hours cannot be added to a package
Individual venues are also available for rent Some venues have set rental timeframes and others have minimum rental hours with additional hours based on availability Rental times for all of our spaces include the time needed for set up, event time and clean up
What is included with the facility?
Your rental fee pays for the use of the space only Any benches, fans and speciality lights already in the venue are included with the rental fee as well We do not provide any tables, chairs or other additional equipment or supplies for events, but these can be supplied by catering companies or any other rental companies Tables and chairs used in our spaces must have rubber, felt, or wooden feet in order to prevent damage A catering tent is available April - November for Bumper Car Pavilion rentals.
Do you provide event coordination services?
No, we do not offer event planning or coordinating services Depending on your event, we highly recommend hiring an event coordinator for your event to ensure your event runs smoothly Our Venue Manager will help guide you through your venue booking process, answer any questions, offer vendor recommendations, provide insight on previous events and is available for tours and event walkthroughs On the day of your event, an Event Supervisor that will be onsite throughout the entire time of your event
Will someone from the venue be there for my event?
Yes We have Event Supervisors that will be onsite throughout the entire event, from set up to clean up Our staff is here for any venue related questions, to ensure the safety of park visitors during load in and out, enforcing any policies or rules of the venue, and troubleshooting and problem solving venue and park related situations that may arise The Event Supervisor is not an event coordinator and they are not required to assist in set up, clean up or any logistics for the event
Do I have exclusive use of the Park for my event?
No Glen Echo Park is a National Park and it must stay open to the public Public hours are 6 am to 1 am Frequent visitors of the park are aware we have private rentals and respect rentals that occur here To help with public awareness, we do stanchion areas off depending on the set up of the event
What catering companies do you allow?
If the event is to be catered, the caterer must be selected from among these fifteen approved caterers These full service caterers are qualified to provide food service at the park They are familiar with the venue and can assist you with layout and equipment needed for your event They are also aware of the rules and regulations we require to prep, cook, and serve food on site As a full service caterer, they will do everything event related (set up, food/beverage service, clean up, and trash removal) Some caterers also provide event planning services
Catering by Seasons • The Chef’s Table
Corcoran Caterers • Delicious Gourmet
Equinox Restaurant • High Point Events & Catering
Main Event Caterers • Occasions Caterers
Ridgewells Catering • Rouge Fine Catering
Signature Caterers • Simply Fresh Events
Spilled Milk Catering • Timber Pizza
Well Dunn Catering • Windows Catering Company
Praline at Glen Echo Park also provides delicious and beautiful special occasion cakes! Contact information for these caterers can be supplied upon request
If none of our approved caterers can fulfill the special dietary or cultural food needs for your event, accommodations can be made to use an outside full service caterer for an additional fee Contact us for more information
What if I want to provide my own food?
If the event is not catered by an approved caterer and renter would like to have drop off catering or potluck, a self-catering fee will apply With this option, renter is responsible for setting up, cleaning up, and ensuring the venue is returned back to its original condition Please contact us for more information
Can I have a food truck for my event?
Yes, food trucks are allowed However, different rules and fees apply depending on the capacity in which you would like to use them Please contact us for more information
Are there any restrictions in regards to alcohol?
Since Glen Echo Park is a National Park, you must apply for an Alcoholic Beverage Permit through the National Park Service in order to serve alcohol The Partnership will provide the application form and submit the completed form on your behalf at no fee Only beer, wine, hard seltzer (without distilled liquor), and champagne may be served; all hard liquor is prohibited and there is no exception to this rule Food must be served at an event with alcohol A security fee of $17 per hour may apply depending on the venue
You may supply the alcoholic beverages for the event or go through the caterer All alcohol must be controlled, opened and served by the caterer ’ s personnel or a certified bartending company Both service and consumption of alcohol are restricted to only the venue(s) you have rented
Do I need a photography permit for my event?
A photography permit is not required as long as photos are taken on your event date You may take photos anywhere on park grounds A National Park Service permit is required for any photoshoots outside of the event date If you are interested in taking photos in the Spanish Ballroom or the Carousel, a fee will apply
Do you have any smaller indoor rooms?
We have two available rooms to rent in the North Arcade building: the single room can hold up to 30 people, and the double room can hold up to 60 people These rooms are rented at an additional cost
Can I incorporate the park’s picnic tables in my event?
Picnic tables located in the middle of the park are for public use only This area cannot be reserved Alcohol is prohibited in this area Picnic tables cannot be moved from the picnic grove
Can the Carousel be open for my event?
The Carousel runs from May - September, with normal operating hours on Wednesday - Friday from 10 am - 2 pm, and Saturday - Sunday from 11 am - 5 pm If your event is scheduled during these hours, the Carousel will be running and the band organ will be playing Bulk tickets for guests can be arranged in advance
The Carousel can also be operated for additional hours during the carousel season in conjunction with a Spanish Ballroom or Bumper Car Pavilion rental for an additional cost A minimum of one hour or a maximum of two consecutive hours can be arranged for, starting no earlier than 5:30 pm and ending no later than 9:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, or 2:30 pm to 9:30 pm Wednesdays - Fridays. The Carousel Package includes the cost of rides for event attendees who ride the Carousel
The Carousel must remain open to all park visitors at all times, including any additional hours in conjunction with an event No exclusive use of the Carousel can be granted The Carousel cannot be operated outside of the carousel’s normal operating season, but photoshoot opportunities may be arranged depending on availability
Are there any decorating restrictions?
Since Glen Echo Park is a National Park and its buildings are historic properties, great care must be taken to protect and preserve these structures. The use of tape, command hooks, staples or nails to affix decorations or signs to the building is strictly prohibited Flammable substances and open flames are not permitted in or near ANY Park structure Balloons are possible decorations, please contact us for more information
The ability to decorate on park grounds outside of your rented venue is very limited Decorations can not be hung or attached to trees, light poles, or existing signage around the park Directional signage is permitted if renter uses a freestanding sign or yard/real estate signs with a stake size less than 3/4th of an inch
Are candles or Sternos permitted?
Because our buildings are historic, no open flames (including sternos) are allowed in or near any of the buildings As an alternative, LED candles and votives may be used
Is there a sound system in the facility?
The Spanish Ballroom, Bumper Car Pavilion and Ballroom Back Room have in-house sound systems. The Ballroom and Pavilion also have a built-in stage If a house sound system is to be used, the designated person who will be operating it must be trained in advance by a member of the Partnership staff Other spaces in the Park do not have a sound system Please contact the Venue Manager for additional information
Are there any music restrictions?
Live or DJ-provided music is permitted in the Spanish Ballroom, Bumper Car Pavilion and Ballroom Back Room All music must end by 11:30 pm for outdoor pavilions.
Are there any other restrictions I should be aware of?
Since the Spanish Ballroom is an historic building, we take great care in preserving the original dance floor Because of this, the main ballroom floor must be covered with a waterproof carpet wherever food or drink service and consumption will occur Carpet packages are available through the Partnership or we can recommend vendors that can provide this service at the renter's own expense and arrangement
Since there is no heat in the Bumper Car Pavilion and Spanish Ballroom, can I bring in additional heaters?
The Bumper Car Pavilion has electric infrared heat panels that can help to heat parts of the space Additionally, the Bumper Car Pavilion has clear plastic sides that can be lowered to enclose the space Several of our vendors are able to provide auxiliary heating and cooling solutions for the Pavilion – ask us for more info! Large floor fans are in the Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion Additional heating and cooling may be possible in the Spanish Ballroom with prior approval from the National Park Service
How is parking at Glen Echo Park handled?
Parking is free at Glen Echo Park We have a large main lot off of Oxford Road that your guests may use Unfortunately, overnight parking is not allowed The parking lot located beneath the main “Glen Echo Park” sign requires a permit 24 hours a day, seven days a week There is limited parking available in the small parking lot off of MacArthur Blvd, which is permit-only seven days a week until 4:00 pm There are handicap parking spaces in all of these lots.
Spanish Ballroom and Bumper Car Pavilion rentals are allowed to hire a valet service for their event Golf carts are prohibited
Depending on the size and timing of your event, parking attendants may be required with an additional fee in order to ensure park visitors and event attendees can be accommodated in the main parking lot
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking and vaping is not allowed in any of our buildings or structures Smoking is permitted outside any of our buildings or structures, and there are receptacles in the park for safe cigarette disposal
Where are the restrooms located?
The main restrooms for the Bumper Car Pavilion are located in the comfort station, the red brick building next to the Carousel The Spanish Ballroom has restrooms located in the building
Do I need liability insurance for my event?
We do not require liability insurance for Bumper Car Pavilion events. You are welcome to get insurance at your own discretion Liability insurance is required for all Spanish Ballroom events.
What happens if the Park is closed due to inclement weather or power outage?
If the Park must close for reasons related to severe inclement weather (snow, ice, hurricane), unsafe site conditions, power outages, or other unforeseeable circumstances, the renter will be allowed to reschedule the event based on availability, or receive a partial refund The Partnership will not be responsible for fees or costs incurred related to caterers, bands or other vendors due to rescheduling or cancellation
What is the cancellation policy?
Per our standard cancellation policy, if you cancel your event at least six (6) months prior to your event, you will be refunded the full amount of your payment less a $250 processing fee If you cancel your event at least four (4) months prior to your event, you will be refunded the full amount of your payment less a $500 processing fee If notification is received less than four (4) months prior to the date of the event, all rental fees collected to date will be forfeited, but you will receive a credit against the rental fee forfeiture if the venue is subsequently rented on the same date Please note that this cancellation policy may vary based on the time between your contract signing and event date
I love Glen Echo Park! What are my rental fees going towards?
All rental fees go back into the preservation of the park, upkeep of the venues and support of our public programs
PrivateRentals
GLEN ECHO PARK
RECOMMENDED VENDORS
Over the years, our team at Glen Echo Park has identified a number of vendors who have gone above and beyond in their service and product offerings to make each moment and step in the event planning and production process memorable and efficient. While your options are certainly not limited to this list, please see below for a few of the businesses we highly recommend, and who are familiar with working at Glen Echo Park!
Event Planners / Coordinators
The Coordinated Collective wwwthecoordinatedcollectivecom
Dantus & Co Events dantusandcocom
Capitol Romance wwwcapitolromancecom
Pride in Planning wwwpnplanningcom
Glorious Weddings & Events gloriousweddingsco
Remembered Events wwwrmredeventscom
Weddings By Kristy wwwweddingsbykristycom
Bellwether Events bellwethereventscom
Eventfully wwweventfullynet
Ali Weitzman Events wwwawe13com
Glow Weddings & Events wwwglowweddingsandeventscom
Events by Raw Design wwweventsbyrawdesigncom
Pop Color Events popcoloreventscom
ARJ Productions arjproductionsnet
G&N Events wwwgandneventscom
Entertainment
DJ Curly Sue wwwdjcurleysuecom
DJ Maskell wwwdjmaskellcom
Bialek’s Music & Entertainment bialeksmusiccom
Lucy Black Entertainment lucyblackentertainmentcom
Electric Events wwwelectriceventsdccom
Unique Dreams uniquedreamsnet
NYX Entertainment & Events nyxeventscom
Kelton Higgins wwwkeltonhigginscom
Luv’dup DJs wwwluvdupdjscom
Snap Entertainment snapentertainmentnet
Washington Talent Agency washingtontalentcom
Double E Entertainment ee-entertainmentcom
Bryan George Music wwwbgmdcdjcom
Crush Funk Band crushfunkbrasscom
Dan Goldman Events dangoldmaneventscom
Decor
Posh Drapes poshdrapescom
Plush Decorations plushdecorationscom
Sweet Gifts Balloons + Events sweetgiftsdmvcom
Decor
Posh Drapes poshdrapescom
Plush Decorations plushdecorationscom
Sweet Gifts Balloons + Events sweetgiftsdmvcom
Cakes by Christa cakesbychristacom
Bakery
Praline Bakery & Bistro wwwpraline-bakerycom/pastries
Mobile Bartenders
P2 Events psquaredbareventscom
Mixin Mimi Mixology mixinmimicom
MJ Valet mjvaletcom
Recommended Vendors
Vintage Views vintageviewsbarcom
Greene Olives greeneolivescom
Transportation CharterUP wwwcharterupcom/shuttles/private-shuttle-buses
Photography
Matt Mendelsohn wwwmattmendelsohncom
Darcy Troutman wwwdarcytroutmanphotographycom
Aimee Custis aimeecustiscom
Anna Lowe annalowephotocom
Ica Images wwwicaimagescom
Stephanie Dee Photography stephdeephotocom
Carl Elixir Photography wwwcarlelixirphotographycom
Mason Photography adammasoncom
Samia's Studios wwwsamiasstudioscom
Barbara O Photography wwwbarbaraophotographycom
Santa Ana Photography santaanaphotoscom
Hunter Scott Imagery wwwhunterscottimagerycom
Damon Bowe Photography wwwdamonbowephotocom
Bakerture wwwbakerturecom
Bobby Bandz Productions wwwbobbybandzcom
Butterfly Photography wwwbutterflyphotographycentercom/home
Bee Two Sweet Photography wwwbeetwosweetcom
Erika Nizborski Photography wwwerikanizborskicom
Wendy Hickok Photography hickokphotographycom
Orrie Gaines Photography wwworriegainesphotographycom
Gurton Photography gurtonphotographycom
Roman Grinev Photography romangrinevcom
Paper Bird Photography paperbirdphotographycom
She Loves Me DC shelovesmecom
York Flowers yorkflowerscom
Stem & Thistle wwwstemandthistlefloralcom
Growing Wild growingwildfloralcom
DaVinci Florist davincifloristcom
Floral
Petalos DC petalosdccom
Mountain Mama Florals mountainmamafloralscom
Little Acre Flowers wwwlittleacreflowerscom
Ash to Oak Floristry ashtooakcom
Bethesda Florist bethesdafloristcom
Poppy Flowers poppyflowerscom
Party Rental Companies
Curated Events DC curatedeventscom/dc
DC Rental dcrentalcom
876 Events & Rentals 876eventsandrentalscom
Ampa Events ampaeventscom
Pretty Little Wedding Co prettylittleweddingcocom
Sammy’s Rentals wwwsammysrentalcom
Party Rental LTD partyrentalltdcom
Select Event Group selecteventgroupcom
Elite Tents & Events wwwelitetentsandeventscom
Honeywood Rentals honeywoodrentalscom
Dalissa Events & Party Rentals dalissaeventscom
Allied Event Solutions wwwalliedpartyrentalscom
Specialty Rentals
27 Studios www27studiosavcom
Something Vintage wwwsomethingvintagerentalscom
The Marigold Bus & Booth marigoldbusandboothcom
4Wall 4wallcom
Pike Productions pikeproductionsdccom
Talk of the Town wwwtotteventscom
AirPac wwwairpacinccom/homepage
Frost DC wwwfrostdccom
Astro Jump wwwastrojumpdccom
Axis Portable Air axisaircom
Ultimate Fun Games wwwmyultimatefuncom/home
Hair/Makeup
Infinity Artistry infinityartistrycom
Styled for Elegance wwwstyledforelegancecom
Conceptual Beauty conceptualbeautycom/indexhtml
Jennifer Thorpe Beauty jenniferthorpebeautycom
Carla Pressley wwwcarlapressleycom
SINCERELY, ME BEAUTY INC wwwsincerelymebeautyinccom
Mimi B Tran makeupbymimitrancom
Strange Artisty By Kristin Mastrangelo wwwkristinelizabethmuacom
Invitations
Doolittle Wedding wwwdoolittleweddingcom
Mermade Magic Custom Studio wwwmermademagicart
Fingers in Ink wwwfingersininkcom
Bridget Goldsmith Stationery + Design bridgetgoldsmithcom
J Jackson Design jjackson-designcom
Bridal Shops Near Us
Lovely lovelybridecom
Fairytale Brides ON A SHOESTRING wwwfairytalebridesorg
Grace Loves Lace graceloveslacecom
Ellie's Bridal Boutique wwwelliesbridalcom
CARINE'S BRIDAL ATELIER carinesbridalcom
Modern Trousseau Washington DC wwwmoderntrousseaucom/flagshipstores/dc
Hotels Near Us
Bethesda Marriott
wwwmarriottcom/en-us/hotels/ wasbt-bethesdamarriott/overview/
Hyatt Regency Bethesda wwwhyattcom/en-US/hotel/ maryland/hyatt-regency-bethesda
AC Hotel Bethesda Downtown wwwmarriottcom/en-us/hotels/ wasba-ac-hotel-bethesda-downtown/overview/
Marriott Bethesda Downtown At Marriott HQ wwwmarriottcom/en-us/hotels/wasbd-marriott -bethesda-downtown-at-marriott-hq/overview/