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Downtown Event Center

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1. Is the Downtown Event Center and Plaza open and accepting rentals?

The plaza is open to the public; the center is open by appointment only. Fill out our online interest form on our website and/or book a tour and staff will be in contact with you. We are accepting rentals with event dates beginning late November/December 2021. Our website will be updated periodically regarding when we will begin accepting rental applications.

2. What are the available hours to rent the event space? Is there a minimum?

Sunday-Thursday, 8am-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 8am-12am. All events are to end by midnight, including time for cleanup.  We do require a minimum booking anywhere between 3-6 hours, depending on the space you book.

3. How many people can the venue accommodate?

We can accommodate anywhere from 100-800 guests.  The capacity depends on each room rented, type of event, and layout style you choose.  

4. Can I tour the facility before I decide to book?

Event Center tours are recommended prior to booking. You can schedule a tour/consultation online.  You will need to visit at least once during the reservation process to verify certain documents.

5. How do I book the center for my event? Can I pay over the phone? What type of events are allowed?

It would be our pleasure to give you a tour of our venue. Just give us a call and we will set up a time and date convenient for you. Please call us at 510-742-7510. You can also submit a request online at www.fremont.gov/DTEC or via email at DTEC@fremont.gov. You will need to visit at least once during the reservation process to verify certain documents.

6. Will the site be shared with other renters?

Yes, there may be a possibility that the building will be shared with other renters if you book an individual room. A discounted bundle package is available if you rent the entire event center, giving you exclusive access. The plaza space is a public space or can be added on to your rental.

7. What is the rental fee and what does it include? When are deposits and fees due?

The rental fee varies on the type of event you have and what day of the week you hold your event. The rental fee includes the rental of the space, tables and chairs.  A refundable cleaning and damage deposit is also required.  All fees, including deposits, are due at the time of your rental application submittal. Payment plans are being considered soon.

8. Are the rental rates daily or hourly?

The rental fees listed online and in our brochure are hourly rates.

9. Can I make changes to my event? What if I need to cancel my event? What is the cancellation/refund policy?

Yes, you can make changes to your event with written notice submitted and approved by Event Center staff.  You must submit written notice of cancellation at least ten (10) days prior to your event date. Fees for uses canceled thirty (30) or more days in advance will be refunded, less 10%; 10-29 days, less 30%; less than ten (10) days, no refund.

10. Are there any other fees such as event insurance, alcohol permit, security guard?

Security is not required, but may require a second Event Center staff.  General Liability Insurance is required for events with 50 or more people or serving alcohol (as well as alcohol liability insurance).

11. What amenities does the venue offer? Do you provide AV equipment and sound systems?

Our venue offers state of the art built in AV equipment throughout our building, equipped with projectors, display monitors, mics, lapels, conferencing capabilities, tables and chairs, bars, cocktail tables, dance floors, and a catering prep kitchen.  Based on your AV needs, additional fees may apply.

12. Do we set up our own tables and chairs?

At the Downtown Event Center, staff provides the set-up and takedown for your event. Room floorplans will be provided to determine how you would like your event layout to be organized.

13. Do you allow decorations? Do you provide linens?

Once decorations are approved by staff, you are welcome to decorate the room(s) to fit your needs with items that can be easily removed without harm to the venue. No nails, staples, tapes or glues that leave a sticky residue. Nothing of a permanent nature and you are responsible to remove any decorations you place. We do not provide linens, but you are more than welcome to bring your own.

14. Are there adequate kitchen facilities?

When you book the State room, a catering prep kitchen equipped with refrigerator, freezer, microwave, heated holding cabinet, sinks, dishwasher, and spacious countertops is available for your use; although no cooking is allowed on the premises.  If you book one of the other rooms and the catering kitchen Is available, it may be added to your reservation at an additional fee.

15. How do I get my deposit refund?

If you leave the facility in the same condition you received it (no damages and clean) and all regulations and guidelines were followed, you will receive your entire deposit refund within 2-4 weeks following your event.

16. Can I serve alcohol at my event?

Yes, you can serve alcohol to guests 21 years old and over guests – beer, wine, sparkling wine, sake – for no more than 4 hours and serving must end one (1) hour prior to the end of your event.  Approved permit and insurance documents are required.  Serving of distilled spirits are allowed with a licensed and certified caterer.

17. Can I have a DJ or band?

Yes, however amplified music must be turned down in volume at 10:00 p.m. and all perimeter outdoor doors must be closed; music must be turned off by 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.  Sunday through Thursday, amplified music must be turned off by 10:00 p.m.

18. Can you recommend or suggest resources such as caterers, DJ’s, florists, event planners?

We do not have a preferred vendor list. You are required to confirm that vendors have appropriate licenses, permits and insurances. 

Any caterers using our catering kitchen must go through a training and sign off on an acknowledgement and waiver prior to the event date. Any caterers serving/selling distilled spirits may also be required to show additional license, permits, and insurance.

19. Is there adequate parking and ADA accessible?

An 80 car parking lot is adjacent to the center and there is plenty of street parking as well. There are adequate ADA approved parking spaces and the building is ADA approved.