Hosted Event Policies

The National Portrait Gallery invites individuals and organizations to support the museum’s mission and have the opportunity to celebrate a special occasion at the museum. These events could include:

  • Fundraising galas for organizations with 501(C)(3) tax-exempt status
  • Private corporate receptions and dinners
  • Personal social events for adults, including wedding receptions, memorials, anniversary celebrations, and birthday parties

The dedicated special events team at the National Portrait Gallery will be pleased to provide you with a list of vendors whose expertise and familiarity with the venue will help make your event successful. Vendor selections must be approved by the Portrait Gallery.

View and download our event guidelines:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have an in-house caterer?
The National Portrait Gallery does not have an in-house caterer. Your Special Events Coordinator is happy to provide you with a list of preferred caterers and vendors approved for your event.

When can I start my event?
The museum is open to the public from 11:30am to 7:00pm. Special events can begin at 7:00pm when the museum closes to the public.

What are the load-in and set-up times?
Your vendors are permitted to load-in and set items such as staging and lighting from 7:00am to 11:00am. Your vendors can return at 3:00pm to finish set up around the public.

Do you host weddings or birthday parties?
We can host special events of a personal nature to include wedding receptions or birthday parties for adults, however, all social events require an approved event planner prior to contracting the space.

Can you host my organization’s fundraiser?
Fundraising events for organizations with 501(C)(3) tax-exempt status are permitted. Ticket sales on-site are not permitted.

Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed in the museum during public hours (11:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.) as long as the equipment is hand-held and no tripods are used.