Private Event Rentals

Mechanics’ Hall is a landmark building in the heart of the Arts District in Portland, Maine. We are celebrated for our historic library and performance space, a cultural hub offering diverse, inspiring and accessible programs and events. Occasionally, we are able to rent our space out for private events & celebrations. Please read below for further descriptions of our spaces before filling out a rental form

We regret that Mechanics’ Hall is unavailable for: fundraising events, events for minors (including proms, children’s birthday parties, confirmations, bar/bat mitzvahs) and religious programs.

Full Building Private Event Rental

Book our entire historic venue for an unforgettable experience and invite your guests to explore multiple levels of our landmark building. All proceed directly support the historic restoration of Mechanics’ Hall. 

  • Locations: Ballroom, Library, Classroom, Boardroom, and Catering Prep Kitchen
  • Timeframe: 9 hours, including vendor set-up and break-down. Additional hours can be reserved at an hourly rate.
  • Capacity: For full building event rentals Mechanics’ Hall has a 175-person capacity. This includes caterers and vendors.
  • Ideal for: Events that include cocktail receptions, luncheons/dinners, dancing.
Rental Inquiry

Library Private Event Rental

Our 2nd floor library, the 8th oldest membership library in the United States, offers historic book stacks, antique lighting, and a unique atmosphere for your private event. All rental proceeds directly support our historic library

  • Locations: Library and-adjacent board room (board room for non-food related use only.)
  • Timeframe: 6 hours, including library/vendor set-up and break-down. Additional hours can be reserved at an hourly rate.
  • Capacity: up to 75 guests
  • Ideal for: cocktail party with small reception/celebration
Rental Inquiry

Ballroom Only Private Event Rental

Designed by famed Maine architect John Calvin Stevens, the Mechanics’ Hall Ballroom was closed to the public for nearly half a century; however, recent restoration and renovations have made this beautiful and elegant space once again available for public use. With its high ceilings and arched sunlit windows, The Ballroom at Mechanics’ Hall is an unforgettable place for any occasion. All proceeds directly support the historic restoration of Mechanics’ Hall.

  • Locations: Ballroom and Catering Prep Kitchen
  • Timeframe: 9 hours, including vendor set-up and break-down. Additional hours can be reserved at an hourly rate.
  • Capacity: The Mechanics’ Hall Ballroom has a 175 person capacity. This includes caterers and vendors.
  • Ideal for: Dinner/Luncheon receptions with music and/or dance, conferences, lectures.
Rental Inquiry

Boardroom Private Event Rental

Wood paneled walls, a roll top desk, antique safe, and large gathering table make the Mechanics Hall Boardroom the ideal place to meet one on one with clients, host mini board retreats, take meetings and more. All proceeds directly support the historic preservation of Mechanics’ Hall

  • Locations: Boardroom
  • Timeframe: 3 hours, including vendor set-up and break-down. Additional hours can be reserved at an hourly rate.
  • Capacity: up to 10 guests
  • Ideal for: Board meetings & small business meetings.
Rental Inquiry

Classroom Private Event Rental

This historic classroom hosted free mechanical drawing classesuntil the late 1980’s. Today, with its classic chalkboard, tin ceilingsand bright open floor plan, The Classroom is perfect for lectures,educational programs, workshops and more. All proceeds directly support the historic preservation Mechanics’ Hall. 

  • Locations: Classroom
  • Timeframe: 6 hours, including vendor set-up and break-down.Additional hours can be reserved at an hourly rate.
  • Capacity: up to 50 guests
  • Ideal for: Meetings, multimedia presentations, lectures, small conferences.
Rental Inquiry
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