The event of your dreams awaits at the East Texas Arboretum!  ​

Looking for a venue for a 
​Birthday Party, Graduation Party,  Quinceañera, or Shower? 
​
Affordable indoor and outdoor rental spaces are available.  We have multiple outdoor pavilions for rent, along with indoor spaces accommodating up to 100 guests.

Contact us to book your complimentary walk-through today,
and read our FAQ below for more information.

​Book your Wedding or Event Today!

Download Our Wedding Packet Here

Download our Event Packet Here

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is due at the time of booking?

• In order to secure your reservation, a 50% non-refundable deposit is due. The amount is based on the rental fee(s) for the location you choose.

Are there any other fees associated with the venue cost?

• We are a non-profit so we do not charge tax and do not have admin fees or service charges.
• If your event goes beyond your contracted rental time, you will incur an overtime charge of $150 per hour to cover staffing fees.
• Chairs and tables are available for rental at an additional cost. The set up and take down of chairs and tables are not included in services. 

What kind of payment options do you have available?

• Payments may be made by credit card, cash, or check.
• Checks may be made out and mailed to:

             East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society
             PO Box 2231
             Athens, TX 75751

When is the final payment due?

• Final venue payments are due 30 days prior to scheduled event.
• Any additional add-ons or rentals must be arranged no later than 30 days before your event.

How do I book?

• Once you are ready to book, call the office at (903) 675-5630 or email [email protected]. We will gather information, prepare your contract, collect your deposit, and secure your date.

Does the Arboretum have any scheduled or expected construction projects going on that might affect the venue space during the event?

• In most cases, maintenance and/or construction are planned in advance. If needed, we will notify a client that their event may be affected by this.
• Fountains and water features on the property are all subject to mechanical breakdown at any given time. ETABS will not refund for gardens whose fountains or water features are unusable due to repair or maintenance needs. A comparable relocation may be considered if needed and available.

Do you offer a rain plan?

• Subject to availability of space.
• The East Texas Arboretum is unable to provide a rain back up for ceremony only locations.

Do any of the locations come with a tent?

• All outdoor locations come as they are. 

Do my guests need tickets to come in?

• No. Guests simply check in under your event name in the main office.

Can I extend my setup and/or teardown time for my event?

• Yes, subject to availability.
• If after hours, the cost would be $100 for each additional hour.

Do you have a noise ordinance policy?

• All outdoor evening amplified music must end at 9:00pm as required by City of Athens Ordinance.
• Amplified music may be played inside only until 11pm in the Woman’s building.
• All events must end by 11pm.
• Daytime garden events must use non-amplified music.

Do you provide time for a rehearsal?

• These would be included additional rentals and can be added to your venue contract.

Can I store/drop off items for my event a couple days before my event or pick them up the day after my event?

• Unfortunately we are unable to store items in our venues overnight. All items must be brought in during your venue rental time.

What kind of items can I use for my send off?

• Since we are a botanical garden, bird seed, rice, paper confetti and other non-natural items cannot be used for decoration or used for tossing at the send off. We do allow bubbles.

Do you allow candles?

• No. Any element including a flame not matter how small is not allowed at the Arboretum.

What if our party needs to cancel?

• Cancellation within 30 days prior to your event will lose your deposit.
• Cancellation within 2 weeks of your event will forfeit all funds already paid to the venue rental. Setup and staffing fees are refundable.
• If ETABS has to cancel your event, a full refund will be provided if a reschedule is not available.

Do you allow alcohol at events?

• Alcohol is permitted with prior approval from the Arboretum.
• Certain conditions apply per TABC rules and regulations.
• Security is required at all events serving alcohol. The cost is $55 per hour and provided by Athens Police Department. ​