Frequently Asked Questions about Events at Oakland Cemetery
How can I book my event?
Contact our Private Events team through this Inquiry Form link. A team member will reach out and work with you to plan your event.
Can I hire my own vendors? Do I have to use preferred vendors?
HOF has an Approved Vendor list that makes it easy for you to plan your event. These vendors work with HOF regularly and are familiar with our unique spaces and requirements. Should you want to use your own vendors, there is a $500 fee. Your vendors must sign our Private Event Guidelines and are responsible for following all HOF rules and regulations.
Where can I have my ceremony?
Oakland Cemetery features 48 acres of beautiful Victorian gardens and unique spaces. HOF’s events team will work with you to find the right space for your event. Due to ongoing restoration, some areas of the cemetery may be off limits and are not for event use.
Where can I have my reception or event?
Opening in 2023 after a six-month restoration, Oakland Cemetery’s Historic Bell Tower is a unique location for your reception or event. With a capacity of 98, the newly restored Bell Tower features two floors of event space, two outdoor balconies overlooking the cemetery, a covered porte cochere, and front porch. The entire building is accessible.
What are the restrictions on décor, flowers, candles, etc.?
Oakland Cemetery is an important cultural and historic site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Therefore, the protection of the grounds, gardens, monuments, hardscapes, and artifacts is of the utmost priority. The Lessee is responsible for all decorations and special effects for the event within the following guidelines:
- Unless specifically approved by the HOF, all decorations and signs must be freestanding and cannot be hung on the walls of any buildings or on monuments.
- Flames must be approved as part of the event plan and are to be contained. The flame must be below the top of the glass container.
- Pyrotechnics, confetti cannons, artificial petals or rice are not permitted.
- Unless specifically approved by the HOF, items cannot block any streets or paths.
- Unless prearranged, all items must be removed from the premises immediately following the event.
- Touch-up painting of decor items is not permitted on the property. The building of decor items onsite must be pre-approved.
Can I have my rehearsal at Oakland Cemetery?
Yes, our team can work with you to arrange the rehearsal. The Bell Tower may be rented for a rehearsal dinner or reception.
Is there a wedding suite or someplace for the wedding party to gather?
What is the parking situation?
HOF offers free, non-secured parking spaces for events, both inside Oakland Cemetery and in a small lot adjacent to the main gate on a space-available basis. The entire parking lot can be reserved by the Lessee for a fee. Lot reservations must be arranged and paid in full thirty (30) days prior to the event date. A parking lot attendant is included in any parking lot rental unless otherwise specified.
Can we or our guests drive into the cemetery?
Driving and parking on the grounds is permitted for passenger vehicles on a limited basis and must be approved by HOF event staff. Parking should be reserved for lessees, guests with mobility issues, and approved vendors. All vehicles must remain on the designated roadway areas. A golf cart is available for rent for transporting guests with mobility issues, shuttling guests from outdoor venues to the restrooms, and transportation for wedding parties to the ceremony site.
Are Oakland Cemetery and the Bell Tower ADA accessible?
Oakland Cemetery is a historic site with asphalt, brick, and stone paths. Some lots require the use of steps. Some paths can be uneven and are unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers. HOF’s event team can work with you and your guests to find suitable paths and locations.
The Bell Tower is ADA accessible and includes an exterior ramp entrance and elevator.
What about rain or inclement weather?
Except for events held in the Oakland Bell Tower, all Oakland events are scheduled outside and should include alternate plans for inclement weather. A Rain Plan is required for all outdoor events. No refunds are made for events because of weather conditions.
What is the alcohol policy?
All private events must abide by City of Atlanta guidelines for parks, which allow alcoholic beverages only with a special permit or prior authorization from HOF. Guests must provide a licensed and insured bartender for any event serving alcohol.
What are capacity limits?
The Historic Bell Tower can accommodate 98 people. HOF’s events team can work with you on floor plans to ensure a special event. Capacities for outdoor ceremonies are …
Can I have my own wedding planner?
Yes, you may have a planner. HOF event staff do not provide planning services outside of normal event rental operational needs.
What about restrooms?
For outdoor-only events, HOF requires that at least one portable toilet be rented for parties of 150 or more. The Historic Bell Tower has accessible restrooms on both levels.
What about security?
General security officers will be on duty from setup through breakdown. These general security costs are included in the rental fee. Off-duty police officers are required for events with an expected attendance of 150 or more and/or where there is amplified music.