2024: What Size Tent Do I Need + Tent Size Calculator
Trying to figure out what size tent you need for an event is akin to solving equations in high school algebra class – it is a pain. Well, it was a pain before you stumbled across this blog! To make event planning easier than ever, we’ve created this tent size calculator which will quickly calculate the tent size you will need for your event!
To give you a head start, we’ve also compiled a few handy charts and essential guidelines. These tools are here to ensure that your event planning journey is smooth and stress-free. So, let’s dive in and make your event a success!
What size tent rentals do I need and how much will it cost?
Event Tent Sizes |
Square Feet |
# of Guests Ceremony/Theatre Style |
# of Guests at Round Tables |
Approximate Cost to Rent |
---|---|---|---|---|
10×10 | 100 | 15 | 10 people at 1 tables | $50 – $150 |
20×20 | 400 | 68 | 40 people at 4 tables | $280 – $350 |
20×30 | 600 | 90 | 60 people at 6 tables | $400 – $550 |
20×40 | 800 | 100 | 80 people at 8 tables | $520 – $650 |
20×50 | 1000 | 150 | 100 people at 10 tables | $600 – $700 |
30×60 | 1800 | 245 | 180 people at 18 tables | $900 – $1400 |
40×60 | 2400 | 342 | 240 people at 24 tables | $1600 – $1850 |
40×100 | 4000 | 600 | 400 people at 40 tables | $3000 – $3500 |
Sq. Ft. Needed for Rented Items
Item | Square Feet Needed Each |
---|---|
48″ Round Table (seats 6-8) | 80 |
60″ Round Table (seats 10) | 100 |
72″ Round Table (seats 12) | 120 |
6′ Rectangle Banquet Table (seats 8) | 80 |
8′ Rectangle Banquet Table (seats 10) | 90 |
Buffet Table | 100 |
Bar | 100 |
Dance Floor | 2-4 per guest |
DJ Area | 100 |
If figuring out the size wasn’t enough, you will also need to figure out the style of tent you want! Let’s go over the different types of tents that can be rented for parties and events.
Types of Tents for Parties and Events
Type | Description |
---|---|
Pole | Secured with stakes, these tents aren’t suitable for concrete or asphalt surfaces. Their design features poles that create elegant peaks and dips, adding a touch of sophistication to your event. |
Frame | These free-standing tents can be set up on any surface, offering versatility for your event location. With no interior poles, you enjoy unobstructed space, making planning and decorating a breeze. |
Marquee | This hybrid tent combines the best of both worlds: it offers the elegant peaks of a pole tent while boasting the free-standing flexibility of a frame tent. |
Frame Structure | This tent features wider openings and taller ceilings compared to standard frame tents, enhancing its spacious feel. It’s capable of supporting more weight, perfect for robust setups. With tightly fitting sections and walls, it’s the ideal choice for effectively utilizing heating and air-conditioning, ensuring comfort in any weather. |
Check out this blog for inspiration. It shows pictures of several different types of tents – all gorgeous!
Recently, I planned a 150-person wedding.
While planning the event, we had to ensure that there was enough square footage for guests’ tables, buffet tables, a bar, and a dance floor. To stay within budget, we decided to go with the pole tent (this is usually the most affordable choice).
Here is how the math worked out:
- 1000 square feet for the guest tables
- 100 square feet for the buffet table
- 100 square feet for the bar
- 300 square feet for the dance floor
- 100 square feet for the DJ
Total: 1,600 sqft
With these numbers in mind, we rented a 30 x 60 tent, which accommodates 1,800 sqft. Since we went with a pole tent, the cost of the rental was $750. However, if we went with a frame tent, the rental would have cost $1,100.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tent do I need for 50 guests?
If you are seating guests ceremony style (not at tables), you will need a 10×30 tent. This size will also work if guests will be standing around cocktail tables.
If your guests will be sitting at tables, you will need a 20×30 tent. Add more square feet if you have other things that need to go under the tent, such as a bar, buffet line, or stage.
What size tent do I need for 100 guests?
If you are seating guests ceremony style (not at tables), you will need a 20×40 tent. This size will also work if guests will be standing around cocktail tables.
If the guests will be seated at tables, you will need a 20×50 tent. Add more square feet if you have other things that must go under the tent, such as a bar, buffet line, or stage.
What size tent do I need for 150 guests?
If you are seating guests ceremony style (not at tables), you will need a 20×50 tent. This size will also work if guests will be standing around cocktail tables.
If the guests will be seated at tables, you will need a 30×60 tent. Add more square feet if you have other things that must go under the tent, such as a bar, buffet line, or stage.
What size tent do I need for 250 guests?
If you are seating guests ceremony style (not at tables), you will need a 30×60 tent. This size will also work if guests will be standing around cocktail tables.
If the guests will be seated at tables, you will need a 40×60 tent. Add more square feet if you have other things that need to go under the tent, such as a bar, buffet line, or stage.
Here are some other, related blogs that you might find helpful:
Table Sizes and Seating: How Many People Will Fit?!?
What Size Linen Fits My Table?
How much does it cost to rent table place settings?
Calculating Dance Floor Size + Average prices in Austin
Hopefully this gives you a good starting point. If you have questions, email us at info@reventals.com.
Contact Us For Help Planning Your Event