How many people can the event space accommodate?
Our max capacity using both levels is 100 guest. 40 downstairs, 60 upstairs seated.
We have just over 2,000 square ft of event space, split between 2 floors.
You and your guest always have access to the full building, we never host multiple parties at once.
What is required to secure my event date?
We ask that you come in for a Venue Tour to discuss details of your event and make sure our space works for you.
For Social Events, Rehersal Dinners, & Showers, a 50% no-refundable deposit is required to secure your event date. The remaining half is required 7 days before your event.
For Weddings, a 25% non refundable retainer the remaining balance will be split into two payments. One 90 days before your date and the last one 30 days before your date.
Liability Insurance
We do require a one day customizable insurance policy be purchased by the client for Weddings. This provided protection for both you and The Jail. You may use your own insurance carrier or we can recommend on . These types of policies typically cost less than $200 and provided labially protection for accidents, damages, etc.
Can I have alcohol at my event?
Yes, you may serve alcohol at your event as long as the following policies are followed:
Beer and wine are permitted, but must be included in your Rental Agreement Contract.
If you would like to serve liquor or a signature cocktail, you must obtain written permission from our owners and secure a Limited Special Occasion Permit from the NC ABC Commission.
A licensed and insured bartender must serve all alcohol. You may hire a mobile bar service that can provide a certificate of insurance, or you can hire a bartender from our team.
All bars must close no later than 30 minutes before your event’s end time.
Let us know if you have any questions—we’re happy to help!
How Does the Event Time Block Work?
Our business model is based on time in our space, so your booked time block must include setup, event time, and cleanup. For social events, we have a 4-hour minimum rental. Most families find that a 5-hour time block works best—allowing 2 hours for setup, 2.5 hours for the event, and 30 minutes for cleanup. Need more time? Let’s chat and customize a schedule that works for you!
What types of events do you allow?
At The Historic Dallas Jail, we specialize in intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, and bridal showers, creating unforgettable celebrations in our one-of-a-kind venue. But weddings aren’t all we do! We welcome all types of events, from milestone birthdays and anniversaries to corporate gatherings and holiday parties. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner with close friends or a lively social event, our space offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience.
Is the space ADA compliant and handicap accessible?
Our downstairs main level is fully handicap accessible, with a ramp located on the left side of the building near the parking lot. Handicap parking spaces are available in the adjacent lot, and we have ADA-compliant restrooms on this level. However, please note that our upstairs is only accessible by stairs, as we do not have an elevator. Let us know how we can assist in making your event as comfortable as possible for all guests!
What are the parking accommodations?
There is a free public parking lot available to the immediate left of The Historic Dallas Jail.
Who will be on site for my event?
A team member (or members) from The Historic Dallas Jail will be on-site during your event to answer any venue-related questions and address any concerns. The number of staff and their specific responsibilities will depend on the package you choose. We’ll go over all the details during the planning process to ensure everything runs smoothly and you have the support you need for your celebration!
Décor Guidelines & Vendor Insurance Requirements
We have just a few guidelines to keep our historic space in great shape!
Candles must be in glass containers.
Confetti (including confetti inside balloons) is not allowed.
Nothing can be hung on the walls.
If you have a specific décor vision, let our team know—we’re happy to help with logistics and installation ideas to bring it all to life!
Vendor Insurance Requirement:
Any vendor or individual setting up a free-standing installation (including DJs, decorators, balloons, photo booths, photographers, florists, and other vendors) must provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) at least 7 days prior to the event. Failure to provide a COI will result in the vendor not being allowed to set up.
Are children allowed?
Yes! We welcome guests of all ages at The Historic Dallas Jail. While our venue is a beautiful space for celebrations, it is not designed for running or playing. We kindly ask that children be supervised by an adult at all times, as our staff is not responsible for childcare. For event planning purposes, we consider anyone under 18 a child. Children may not be dropped off or left unattended at the venue. If alcohol is served at your event, it is the host's responsibility to ensure all legal drinking age requirements are followed.
Are There Any Restrictions on Food and Catering?
All food served at your event must come from a licensed and inspected kitchen. If you are bringing in a caterer, we require a Certificate of Insurance from them.
We’re happy to provide a list of recommended catering options to make your planning easier. Please note that homemade food is not permitted at our venue.
Our kitchenette space has a refrigerator, sink, dish washer, and prep table. We have no way to heat up anything at the venue.
What does “Clean Up” Entail?
Once your event is over, we keep cleanup simple! We just ask that all trash is placed in the designated trash cans and any dishes are left in the kitchen. At the end of your time block, all food should be removed from the kitchen, presents loaded into cars, and décor packed up. No need to worry about linens or floors—our team takes care of those for you!
Event Booking Policy
We are thrilled to host your special event at The Historic Dallas Jail! To ensure we can accommodate all our clients, we follow the booking schedule below:
Weddings – Can be booked at any time.
Rehearsal Dinners – Available for booking up to 6 months before the event date.
Showers (Bridal & Baby Showers) – Available for booking up to 4 months before the event date.
Social Events (Birthdays, Anniversaries, etc.) – Available for booking up to 3 months before the event date.