Tenting 101 | A Classic Party Rental

Tented events offer a unique and customizable experience while protecting your guests from unpredictable weather. Whether you are planning a wedding, backyard celebration, or large-scale festival, a tent allows you to create a space that feels completely your own.

Unlike traditional venues, tents act as a blank canvas. From draping and flooring to lighting and lounge areas, every detail can be tailored to your vision.

No matter the occasion, there is a tent solution to fit your needs. Here is a breakdown of the three main types of tents and how they differ:

Frame Tents

Frame tents are one of the most versatile and widely used options. They are supported by an internal framework made of aluminum or steel, which means there are no center poles. This creates a completely open interior.

Because they do not rely on stakes for structure, frame tents can be installed in a variety of locations including concrete, asphalt, and tighter spaces near buildings. When staking is not possible, they can be secured using weighted ballasts.

Best for:

Events in confined spaces or near structures
Installations on hard surfaces
Ceremonies or layouts that require unobstructed views

Key advantages:

Open floor plan with no center poles
Flexible layout and design options
Can be installed where staking is not possible

Note: Weighting a tent is a great alternative when staking is not an option, but it can increase costs and requires additional planning.

Pole and Century Tents

Pole tents, also known as Century tents, are a popular choice for larger events and are known for their high peaks and elegant silhouette.

These tents are supported by stakes around the perimeter and center poles inside the structure. The tension created by the stakes gives the tent its signature shape.

40-foot wide pole tents typically have a single row of center poles
60-foot wide Century tents feature double rows of center poles

Because they must be staked into the ground, pole tents are best suited for grass or areas where staking is permitted. They cannot be installed using weights.

Best for:

Large weddings and events
Open outdoor spaces such as lawns or fields
Clients prioritizing aesthetics and cost efficiency

Key advantages:

More economical than other tent types
Visually striking with high peaks
Available in larger sizes for higher guest counts

ClearSpan Tents

ClearSpan tents are the most durable and structurally robust option. They are designed to handle long-term installations and more extreme weather conditions.

Built with a rigid frame and no interior poles, they provide a completely open interior while offering a more permanent feel. These tents are ideal when you need a weather-tight solution that can accommodate complex event builds.

Best for:

Long-term or multi-day events
Events requiring advanced lighting, AV, or rigging
Situations where weather protection is critical

Key advantages:

Engineered to withstand wind and rain
No interior obstructions
Supports intricate lighting and production setups
Highly customizable interior options

Additional Considerations

When planning a tented event, keep these key factors in mind:

Permits and regulations: Some areas require permits for larger tent installations
Surface type: Grass, concrete, or asphalt will impact tent selection and installation
Weather planning: Sidewalls, heaters, fans, or flooring may be needed depending on the season
Lighting and power: Tents often require additional power sources
Timeline: Installation and breakdown may require multiple days depending on the structure

When to Book Your Tent

Tents are in high demand, especially during spring, summer, and fall. We recommend reaching out as early as possible since many dates book months in advance.

Let’s Bring Your Event to Life

Choosing the right tent is the foundation of a successful outdoor event. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step, from selecting the right structure to designing a fully customized environment.