Event Rental FAQs

Booking Your Event

Who do I contact to inquire about booking a private event at UMFA?

Contact the events coordinator or call 801.581.5643 for more information. Please, allow 1–3 business days for a reply.

Can I place a hold on a specific date for my event?

Yes. We can place up to 2 holds, based on availability and valid for 14 calendar days. No deposit is required.

You will be notified if your hold date is requested by another individual—you have first right of refusal. However, if we are unable to contact you within 24 hours we reserve the right to release the hold to a party with deposit in hand.

Can I schedule a time to see the venues in person?

Yes. With at least 24 hours notice, our event coordinator will be happy to show you the event spaces and discuss your individual needs. Appointments can be made Monday through Friday from 10 am–5 pm. Special arrangements may be made, based on availability. Contact the events coordinator or call 801.581.5643 to schedule an appointment.

Is a deposit required to book my event? If so, is it refundable?

When you are ready to book your date, our event coordinator will draft a contract for your review. A signed contract is required to book the date. a deposit (equal to half the rental fee) is required within 10 days, $600 of which is non-refundable. If the total price is less than the non-refundable $600, the entire rental fee is due at signing and is non-refundable.

Are Museum galleries open during my event for my guests to view?

Gallery access is included with your G.W. Anderson Family Great Hall rental and with all spaces rented during operation hours. For an additional fee, we can provide guest access to the galleries for other spaces rented in the evening. Please note that food and drink are not permitted in the galleries.

What time can my event begin? Is there a specific time it must end?

Evening events may not begin earlier than 5 pm, with guest departure no later than 10 pm. An additional security fee of $600/hour will be assessed if teardown extends beyond 11 pm. Morning and afternoon event reservations are subject to approval, contact the events coordinator or call 801.581.5643 to discuss your daytime request.

How much time set up time is allowed for my event?

Set up for daytime events can begin at 7:30 am. Set up for evening events can begin at 4 pm. Access for setup in your rental space depends on the start time indicated in your contract. Typically, we can work with most schedules and a one-hour-tear-down window is included in your rental fee.

Does the museum provide tables or chairs for events?

A selection of in-house event furnishings are included in your rental fee:

• 230 Chairs
• 25 Seated Round Tables (60" diameter)
• 20 8' x 30" Banquet Tables
• 10 6' x 30" Banquet Tables
• 24 Standard High Boy Tables (36" diameter) 
• Linens not required (36" diameter) 
• Sound System
• Podium
• Screen and Projector

Do you offer special discounts?

Yes. We are proud to offer discounts to non-profits and University of Utah departments. We offer discounts to clients booking 2 or more events in the same transaction and combination rates for booking 2 or more event spaces for the same date. Contact the events coordinator for pricing, information, and restrictions.

Use of Museum and Event Venues

What is included with my rental fee?

The use of on-site amenities and services available in each rental space is complimentary. This includes tables and chairs for up to 240 guests, existing A/V elements, event staff support, basic security, and custodial service. During the spring, summer, and fall months outdoor spaces are included with their adjacent indoor spaces at no additional charge.

What are some common things not included with my rental fee?

We are not able to provide the following:

• Food and beverage service
• Bartending service
• Dinnerware and décor
• Floral arrangements
• Live music and photography

The following amenities are available for an additional cost:

• On-campus parking 
• Additional or advanced A/V elements and support
• Additional party rentals such as linens, tables, or tents
• Steinway Piano
• Additional security

Is Wi-Fi available in the Museum?

Yes. The entire museum is Wi-Fi compatible through the University of Utah's internet, free of charge. Prior arrangements are not required.

Can alcohol be served at my event?

Yes. The rental contract includes an addendum outlining the University of Utah's terms for alcohol service on campus. The addendum must be agreed to and signed in advance to permit alcohol service at your event. Alcohol must be served by a licensed bartender who meets the University's requirements—all Museum-approved caterers can provide this service. Alcohol service will not be permitted without at least two-weeks' notice. Contact the events coordinator for more information.

May I choose my own vendors?

You may choose from our list of approved caterers for food and beverage service. For all other items, including wedding cakes, party rentals, live music, etc., you may select any professional provider. 

Can I serve home-prepared food at my event?

Per University of Utah regulations, all food and beverages served on University property must be prepared in a professional, licensed kitchen. We cannot allow home-prepared food, beverages, or desserts on-site. Many of our approved caterers will prepare client-requested recipes.

Are there restrictions on decorations or décor at the Museum?

Yes. We cannot allow open flames (including live candles), potted plants, balloons, birds, butterflies, loose sand, feathers, or glitter. Any similarly pervasive materials are prohibited. Nothing may be affixed to Museum surfaces including walls, windows, or floors. Contact the events coordinator to discuss specific items you would like to bring to your event.

Can school dances be held at the Museum?

School dances are not permitted at the UMFA.

Is live music allowed during my event?

Yes. The G. W. Anderson Family Great Hall acoustics are well-suited for small jazz combos, though we have accommodated music ranging from acapella groups to DJs. A Steinway grand piano is also on site and available for rental.

Will I have to make special parking arrangements for my guests?

Depending on what day of the week you hold your event and how many guests you are expecting, we can help with parking arrangements, which we will add to your final invoice. Parking is always free on Saturdays and Sundays.

Is the Museum ADA accessible?

Yes. The UMFA is ADA accessible in all regards. Visit the Accessibility page for more information.