How do I secure a room and date for booking?
A space may be held for up to two weeks. All requests must be submitted in writing. To secure a space, we ask that you sign an Agreement, and provide a deposit of 50% of the administrative fee, and Certificate of Insurance. Please refer to the Special Events Brochure for further details.

What are the rental fees? How much time do they permit?
Administrative fees are based on a three tiered pricing structure for Corporate, Non-Profit and Government entities. Our fees are based on a four hour minimum. Events longer in duration, or requiring set-up and breakdown time, are subject to an increase in the Administrative fee or direct cost fees. Events with setup requirements can assume four to five hours for load-in and space set-up, up to two or up to four hours of total guest/event time, and one hour for breakdown and load-out. For specifics, please contact our Conferences, Meeting and Events Office.

What time can events start and end?
Event hours are Monday-Saturday from 8am to 5pm. Special events, 6pm-12am.   For evening events, load-in may start at 2:30 PM, and all events must conclude by midnight. For events with production or lighting setup, load-in must occur the evening prior. All caterer or third party breakdown and load-out must be completed by 2am. Events requiring a load-in at 7pm or extending past midnight must be approved in advance of the event date, and subject to an additional facility fee.

Are personal events allowed at USIP?
Social events, except for weddings, are not permitted at USIP.

Do you offer parking? Are you located near a Metro station?
Parking is extended for events after 6pm. USIP has a private parking garage which accommodates up to 270 vehicles. Valet parking may be arranged through your CME planner to support your event. Service is managed by Atlantic Valet. A pay per driver option is also available. Your guests may also park at metered parking available along 23rd Street. We are conveniently located just 6 blocks from the Foggy Bottom Metro Station on the Blue and Orange line.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes! The use of red wine, red berries and cranberry juice is not permitted. Food and beverage is not permitted inside the Carlucci Auditorium or the Kathwari Amphitheatre. Please refer to the Special Events Brochure for complete details.

What types of decor are restricted at the United States Institute of Peace?
The following items are not permitted: helium balloons, fog, dry ice, or bubble machines; or any item which may float; the tossing of petals, glitter and confetti. Unprotected candles and open flames. Use of votives and/or enclosed candles is allowed as a LED only. No live flame. Please refer to the Special Events Brochure for complete details. Please refer to the Special Events Brochure for complete details.

Am I required to use an approved caterer for my event?
USIP maintains a list of approved caterers, from which you must choose. All food and alcohol must be provided by one of the approved caterers or vendor.

Can a restaurant or Embassy chef cater my event?
The client must first choose one of the USIP Approved Caterers, and then coordinate all efforts with the selected caterer. All service must be provided by a USIP approved caterer.

Do you have equipment that I can use or rent for my event?
Yes. Our list of in-house services can easily support your event at USIP. Please contact our Conferences, Meetings and Events Office for details on available equipment.

Is there an approved or preferred list for A/V, floral, lighting or other event vendors?
Yes. Our Approved Vendors are of the highest caliber and are well-versed in our facility policies and procedures, and are sensitive to the particularities of our event spaces. We generally require that third party vendors schedule a site visit at least 2 weeks prior to the event to discuss event policies and procedures with our Conference, Meetings and Events Office.

Do you allow entertainment, bands or live music?
Amplified music, bands, DJs, or the equivalent may be permitted on a case-by-case basis with the stipulation that volume is at all times subject to the discretion of USIP management. Sound checks may begin at 5:30 or once the building has closed.