Private Events

Enjoy your next memorable event in the beautiful, natural settings of Rutgers Gardens. Whether you are looking to get married in a tranquil garden or celebrate a special occasion, our unique venue offers an enchanting backdrop that you and your guests will always remember.

Renting the Rutgers Gardens facility for private events is a privilege extended only to Rutgers Gardens members and Rutgers University departments. If you are not already a Rutgers Gardens member, a new membership can be processed at the time of your rental reservation. You are welcome to visit Rutgers Gardens during our operating hours to explore the venue and decide if it’s right for your event.

Space within Rutgers Gardens will be available to rent from May 12, 2025, through November 2, 2025.

All events require a $500.00 nonrefundable deposit to reserve a date. An additional $500.00 refundable security deposit is also required. Clients and their vendors must provide proof of insurance to Rutgers Gardens 60 days in advance of the event. Parking is limited to 70 vehicles at any event. Parking attendants can be provided to assist your guests.

Wedding ceremonies in our outdoor gardens

Choose from the Art Rudolph Sun and Shade Garden, which can accommodate up to 150 people, or the Roy H. DeBoer Evergreen Garden, which can accommodate up to 150 people, for an unforgettable outdoor wedding ceremony.

Morning ceremonies may be scheduled between 9:00am and 12:00pm. 

Afternoon ceremonies may be scheduled during the following times:

• Between 1:00pm and 6:00pm (May 12th through October 14th)
• Between 1:00pm and 4:00pm (October 15th through November 2nd)

Rental fees for wedding ceremonies include:

• Use of either the Sun and Shade Garden or the Evergreen Garden.
• Use of the Log Cabin and Alumni Pavilion in case of inclement weather (must be scheduled 72 hours in advance).
• Seating for up to 50 guests. Additional seating will incur a setup fee of $2.00 per chair.
• One rehearsal session in advance of the ceremony date. A rehearsal request must be made at least two weeks in advance. Rehearsals may only be held Tuesdays through Fridays.

If you are interested in having your wedding ceremony and a reception at Rutgers Gardens, please review the Private Events and Receptions details below.

Private events and receptions at the Log Cabin and Alumni Pavilion

Private Events and Receptions may be held at the Log Cabin and Alumni Pavilion during the following times only:

• Wedding receptions between 1:00pm and 6:00pm* 
• Private events (non-wedding) between 1:00pm and 5:00pm*

*Due to limited daylight, all events must end by 4:00pm October 15th through November 2nd

Rental fees for Private Events and Receptions include:

• Use of the Log Cabin and Alumni Pavilion during the contracted time.

Full-service catering and event staffing are provided by our approved caterers. Please contact The Food Architects and Twin Oaks Caterers directly for information on food selections and pricing. If our experienced caterers are unable to meet your dietary needs, please contact our office at 848-932-7000 to discuss alternative options.

Rutgers University Departments may contact the Rutgers Gardens office for rental information by calling 848-932-7000.

Please complete the VENUE RENTAL REQUEST FORM with all required information. Our staff will contact you within 7-10 business days to review and begin processing your reservation request.

If you have any questions, please contact Rutgers Gardens via email at rugardens@sebs.rutgers.edu or call 848-932-7000. Thank you for considering Rutgers Gardens for your special event!