FREQUENTLY ASKED
questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED
questions

We know there are a lot of questions you need answered when trying to pick the right venue for your special event. Here are the answers to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) you may have during your planning process! If you’re looking for a unique, turnkey wedding venue in Newport News, Virginia, we just may be the right fit for your special event.
FEES & RESERVATIONS
The rental fee is a one-and-done fee. No hidden charges.
In addition to the venue cost, you will be required to pay a security deposit of $250. This fee will be returned to you if there is no damage to the center. If post-event inspection of the Facilities by Hampton Roads Event Center Management determines there is damage in excess of the fee, the user will be responsible for the cost.
You can book up to 7 days before the event; however, the earlier you book, the better chance you have of getting the date you prefer.
Payments may be made via credit card through our website.
Absolutely! Our space is designed to accommodate your special day from start to finish.
PACKAGES & POLICIES
All payments are non refundable. We recommend cancellation insurance.
In addition to the venue cost, you will be required to pay a damage deposit of $250. The User shall be responsible for any costs in excess of the Security Deposit amount as may be assessed by the Hampton Roads Event Center Management upon post-event inspection of the Facilities.
“Acts of God” (including but not limited to; natural disasters, hurricanes, snowstorms, floods, fires, pandemics, epidemics, government law or order, national or regional emergencies etc.) that make the building inaccessible the day of the event will be rescheduled to the soonest available date. We recommend cancellation insurance.
Absolutely! Our space is designed to accommodate your special day from start to finish.
The renter will be allowed a 1-hour rehearsal at the HREC’s discretion due to the other weddings/events being held at the time. Rehearsal times will be established at least one month before the event and may not be scheduled before that time.
When you rent the space, it is all yours. No other events will take place during that time.
We recommend that all wedding and event vendors who arrive or show up to the property have general liability insurance. We recommend that, our venue be listed as additional insured on the policy. Vendors include, but are not limited to, photographers, disc jockeys, live musicians & bands, videographers, caterers, bakeries, florists, hair and makeup artists, horse & carriage, décor rentals, photo booths, and wedding coordinators/planners.
- We are proud to offer full service cleaning after your event.
- Everything brought to the facilities by the User, caterer, rental company, or guests shall be removed after and on the same day of the event to include napkins, plates, cups and silverware.
DECOR
Hampton Roads Event Center will set up all tables and chairs for your event. You can enter the space at the start of your event rental time.
We have countless layouts for you to choose from.
The room flip is the responsibility of the renter.
While we want your event to feel special and custom, we do have some restrictions in regards to decor. The following items are not permitted:
- Fog, Smoke or Haze machines
- Fire/Freestanding Candles
- Glitter/Confetti
- Pop-up Tents/Freestanding Structures with Ceilings
- Hay
- Rice
- Birdseed
- Fake Flower Petals
- Pets
Additionally, nothing may be nailed to the walls.
In-house decor, custom linens and various overlay and runner options, plus items such as chalkboards, signs, centerpieces, etc.
Hampton Roads Event Center will set up for your event as follows:
- The User is responsible for supplying information on the Hampton Roads Event Center Use Agreement form concerning the desired set up of the facilities including the number and placement of chairs and tables seven (7) days before the event.
- Unless otherwise arranged between the User and the Hampton Roads Event Center all set-up and take-down of Facility-supplied tables/chairs/etc., will be the responsibility of the Hampton Roads Event Center. In no case shall the User be allowed to re-arrange any of the interior permanent fixtures or furnishings in the facility for use outside of the Hampton Roads Event Center.
- The User is responsible for supplying such items as easels, display boards, and other equipment needed for their function. Equipment located in the facility may be used, subject to approval by the Hampton Roads Event Center.
- Set-up of furniture and equipment by the Hampton Roads Event Center will occur and be complete prior to the scheduled event.
- Any equipment or building malfunctions or damage discovered by the User or Caterer during set-up/preparations for an event shall be reported immediately to the Hampton Roads Event Center.
VIEW LAYOUT OPTIONS
Yes! View our table setting options here.
FACILITY
Our Newport News wedding and event venue offers 2,300 square feet of premium indoor space and 2400 square feet of patio space that can comfortably accommodate up to 100 guests. From corporate events and birthday parties to rehearsal dinners to an intimate wedding ceremony or a glamorous reception, we have the perfect space to make your event memorable.
There are two handicap accessible bathrooms for use in the facility.
The City of Newport News Ordinance Section 28-36 applies to our event space venue.
We have a large parking lot on site that can accommodate all guests. Please only park in designated parking areas.
Sunday -Thursday 9:00 AM -10:30 PM
Friday – Saturday 9:00 AM -11:00 PM
Hampton Roads Event Center has a 2400 square foot lighted outdoor patio for your use when you rent the space.
The room flip is the responsibility of the renter.
Yes, we are proud to be accessible to all.
The entire space can be used as a dance floor. Space is only limited by the number of guests, tables and chairs in the space.
Hampton Roads Event Center does not have a kitchen team or catering team. You must supply your own food, alcohol and ABC license for your event.
Yes!
- We are proud to offer cleaning after your event.
- Everything brought to the facilities by the User, caterer, rental company or guests shall be removed after and on the same day of the event to include all napkins, cups, plates and silverware.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
We allow alcohol in our facility but only if you obtain your own Virginia ABC 1-day Banquet License for the day of your event. Total cost for a 1-day banquet license is $55. Here is the link to apply online. Please note: The processing time for an online application for a banquet license is 10 days. (The Virginia ABC website says processing time is 60-90 days but when speaking with them they said it is actually only 10 days and the website should be updated soon) https://www.abc.virginia.gov/licenses/Get-a-License/Definitions/banquet
Alternatively, you may apply in person for an ABC License. Download our instructions and application for your ABC License.
The following restrictions apply to the Virginia ABC 1-day Banquet License
- You may serve beer, wine and mixed drinks.
- You may NOT charge for alcoholic beverages, they must be provided at no charge to guests
We do not offer bar service, but we have a spacious bar that can be used for your event. To serve alcohol at your event, you must have a Virginia ABC 1-day Banquet License. Here is the link to apply. This license allows you to serve beer, wine and mixed drinks. You may NOT charge for alcoholic beverages, they must be provided at no charge to guests.
Yes! Hampton Roads Event Center does not offer catering services. We welcome you to bring your own caterer or supply your own food and beverages. We offer a warming kitchen for your use.
Hampton Roads Event Center has a warming kitchen on site that can be used by you and your caterer.
- Refrigerator/Freezer
- Range
- Microwave Oven
- Stainless steel prep table
- Sink
- Cutting board
- Set of mixing bowls
- Knives
- Set of pots and pans
- Spatula
- Wooden spoons
- Callander
- 2 Cookie sheets
- Measuring cups
- Bottle opener
- Hot pads
- Measuring spoons
- Kosher salt
- Pepper grinder
- Cooking spray
- Dish soap
- Dish towels
- Scrub sponge top clean pans
- Lighter for chafing sternos
View the printable list here.
Hampton Roads Event Center does not have a dishwasher. All dinnerware, glassware and silverware must be provided by the renter or caterer.





