Who can rent the Museum?
Anyone.
What kinds of events may be held at the Museum?
Wedding receptions, cocktail parties, meetings, concerts, and films are all suitable for the Museum. The Museum may not be rented for press conferences, public political programs or forums, proms, or exhibitions of art for the purpose of promoting an artist or his/her work. The Museum cannot remain open past 5 p.m. for gallery viewings; after-hours gallery viewings must be associated with a facility rental event or must take place on a Friday evening, when the Museum remains open until 9 p.m.
The Museum is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and limits the use of its facilities in view of its own needs and the appropriateness of the event in the Museum setting.
How do I book my event?
For more information, please call (207) 775-6148, ext. 3259 or send an email to facilityrentals@portlandmuseum.org. Please allow up to a week for a response to your inquiry.
Are there any restrictions on Museum events?
The Museum does not allow lit candles, ice sculptures, potted plants, glitter, confetti, balloons, bubbles, red wine or any red beverages, beets, raw red meat, or red berries. Also, in accordance with state law, smoking is prohibited on Museum grounds; please take this into consideration when planning your event.
What will the Museum Events Coordinator do at my event?
The Events Coordinator will direct caterers and other vendors and generally ensure that your event goes smoothly.
Will my guests have access to the exhibition galleries?
Yes, if you choose. There is a nominal fee for each exhibition gallery that you would like to have open.
Who will cater my event?
Select any licensed caterer that fits your budget and style. A list of suggestions is available from the Events Coordinator. If you plan to serve alcohol, whether cash bar or open bar, your caterer must hold a valid liquor license.
Will the Museum provide tables and chairs for my event?
A limited number of eight-foot rectangular banquet tables and various types of chairs are available free of charge for your event. Audiovisual equipment is available for rental.
Can I have a band or a DJ at my event? Is dancing allowed?
Yes, bands, DJs, and dancing are all permitted. If you are planning to arrange "do-it-yourself" music (using an ipod, for example) you must provide, set up, and remove all related equipment on your own.
Where do my guests enter the Museum for an after-hours event?
Guests enter the Museum through the main entrance on Free Street.
Can I decorate the Museum for my event?
Yes, as long as the decorations are free-standing (for example, floral arrangements on pedestals).
Does the Museum require event insurance?
Yes, the Museum requires an original certificate of liability insurance for all events. You may obtain this certificate through your homeowner's or renter's insurance agent or purchase separate event insurance through a provider such as WedSafe.
Where should my guests park?
There are several public parking facilities within walking distance of the Museum.