Green Room

The Green Room

Host to more than 200 functions and 40,000 guests each year, The Green Room is a beautiful example of Beaux Arts architecture, known for its distinctive color, soaring ceiling and russet tiled loggia.

It is located on the second floor the Veterans Building, in the heart of San Francisco’s Civic Center.

The Green Room — perfect for dinners, lectures and receptions — also provides an ideal location for events held in conjunction with performances in the Herbst Theatre and War Memorial Opera House.

Five 24-lamp chandeliers, a wide-open floor, built-in wet bar, and floor-to-ceiling windows that lead to an outdoor loggia overlooking San Francisco City Hall, make The Green Room a beautiful and flexible event space. Rental of The Green Room includes access to the freight elevator and exclusive use of an expansive catering staging kitchen.

LOCATION & RENTAL CONTACT

ELIZABETH DREESON, Booking Manager: The Green Room
Email: WMPAC-GreenRoom@sfgov.org
Phone: 415.554.6313

San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center
401 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 110
San Francisco, CA 94102

Main Phone: 415.621.6600

0
Theater-style
Seating
0
SEATED DINNERS
(16, 60" round tables maximum)
0
STANDING
RECEPTIONS
Floor PLANS
Green Room

AUDITORIUM CAPACITY

0
theater style seating
0
seated dinners
0
standing receptions

SUPPORT SPACES

  • Staging/Dressing Room (728 sq. ft.) 
  • Catering Kitchen (1,371 sq. ft.)
  • Public Restrooms
  • Freight Elevator (6′ W x 12’6″ L x 9′ H)
Floor PLANS

CAPACITY

0
theater-style seating
0
seated dinner
0
standing reception

SUPPORT SPACES

  • Staging/Dressing Room
    (728 sq. ft.)

  • Catering Kitchen
    (1,371 sq. ft.)

  • Public Restrooms

  • Freight Elevator
    (6′ W x 12’6″ L x 9′ H)
Rental RATES

Rental rates are for an 8-hour access period, unless otherwise noted, which includes 3 hours of set-up, 3.5 hours of event time and 1.5 hours for load-out. Rent does not include personnel, equipment or insurance. See Fees and Expenses for more information.

STANDARD

Monday - Thursday
$2300
Friday - Sunday
$2600
Weddings (July and August only) - Based on 12-Hour Access
$3800

501(c)(3) / GOVERNMENT

All days
$1150

ADDITIONAL RENTAL FEES (BEYOND 8-HOUR ACCESS)

Additional hour or portion of an hour before midnight: Nonprofit / Standard
$160/$200
Additional hour or portion of an hour after midnight: Nonprofit / Standard
$200/$500

RATE INCREASES

All rental rates are subject to increase each year on July 1.

CANCELLATION

SFWMPAC retains the full rental fee unless the date is re-rented to another party. If the date is re-rented, SFWMPAC will retain an administrative fee of $150.

WEDDINGS AND PRIVATE PARTIES (PERMITTED IN JULY AND AUGUST ONLY)

We welcome private parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding ceremonies and receptions during the months of July and August only. All wedding bookings must be managed by a wedding planner.

YOUTH EVENTS

As a multi-use venue, we are unable to accommodate youth events, such as proms, dances, bar/bat mitzvahs, debuts, cotillions or quinceañeras.

Rental RATES

Rental rates are for an 8-hour access period, unless otherwise noted, which includes 3 hours of set-up, 3.5 hours of event time and 1.5 hours for load-out. Rent does not include personnel, equipment or insurance. See Fees and Expenses for more information.

STANDARD

Monday - Thursday
$2300
Friday - Sunday
$2600
Weddings (July and August only) - Based on 12-Hour Access
$3800

501(c)(3) / GOVERNMENT

All Days
$1150

ADDITIONAL RENTAL FEES (BEYOND 8-HOUR ACCESS)

Additional hour or portion of an hour before midnight: Nonprofit / Standard
$160/$200
Additional hour or portion of an hour after midnight: Nonprofit / Standard
$200/$500

RATE INCREASES

All rental rates are subject to increase each year on July 1.

CANCELLATION

SFWMPAC retains the full rental fee unless the date is re-rented to another party. If the date is re-rented, SFWMPAC will retain an administrative fee of $150.

WEDDINGS AND PRIVATE PARTIES (PERMITTED IN JULY AND AUGUST ONLY)

We welcome private parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding ceremonies and receptions during the months of July and August only. All wedding bookings must be managed by a wedding planner.

YOUTH EVENTS

As a multi-use venue, we are unable to accommodate youth events, such as proms, dances, bar/bat mitzvahs, debuts, cotillions or quinceañeras.

Fees &
EXPENSES

PERSONNEL

All events require War Memorial Event Managers. Additional staff is available, including coat checkers, and War Memorial security staff. Use of projection, theatrical/décor lighting or professional AV equipment requires IATSE Local 16 stage labor. Access starting before 8:00 am or ending after Midnight requires hiring a building engineer. To create a personnel estimate, we will need your complete timeline, expected attendance, and desired guest services.

INSURANCE

A Certificate of Insurance with an Additional Insured Endorsement is required for all events and performances. Insurance must include Workers Compensation coverage, Public Liability coverage of $1 million, Property Damage coverage of $1 million and Host Liquor Liability when alcohol is served. Insurance is also available through the War Memorial. Costs vary based on guest count, event type and length.

EQUIPMENT

Equipment rental is a flat fee for use of chairs and tables. Sound and electrical equipment and stage equipment are not included in the flat rate fee. A separate itemized charge will be applied. See Equipment for an inventory.

CONTINGENCY DEPOSIT

A refundable $300 contingency deposit is required for all events.

EXPENSE DEPOSIT

The expense deposit is a deposit paid to cover all estimated personnel, equipment and insurance, as well as any other costs that fall outside of the rent. It will be used to cover all expenses and any unused portion will be refunded at the time of settlement.

AVERAGE COST

The average cost of an event is based on the rent combined with the expense deposit. While costs vary widely, nonprofit events have average expenses of $2,500 to $3,000.  Corporate events or Weddings usually have an average of $5,000-$6,500 venue costs.  These costs do not include catering or event decor/production.

CATERING & BAR SERVICE

You are welcome to use any licensed caterer of your choice, provided they are properly licensed and insured, adhere to our Rules and Regulations, and conduct a site visit prior to the event. A list of approved vendors will be provided. Ask for more information if you intend to sell alcohol or provide as part of event attendance ticket price.

Fees &
EXPENSES

PERSONNEL

All events require SFWMPAC Event Managers. Additional staff is available, including coat checkers and security. Use of projection, theatrical/decor lighting or professional AV equipment requires engagement of IATSE Local 16 stage labor. Access starting before 8:00 am or ending after midnight requires hiring a building engineer. To create a personnel estimate we will need your complete timeline, expected attendance and desired guest services.

INSURANCE

A Certificate of Insurance with an Additional Insured Endorsement is required for all events and performances. Insurance must include Workers Compensation coverage, Public Liability coverage of $1 million, Property Damage coverage of $1 million and Host Liquor Liability when alcohol is served. Insurance is also available through SFWMPAC. Costs vary based on guest count, event type and length.

EQUIPMENT

Equipment rental is a flat fee for use of chairs and tables. Sound and electrical equipment and stage equipment are not included in the flat rate fee. A separate itemized charge will be applied. See Equipment for an inventory.

CONTINGENCY DEPOSIT

A refundable $300 contingency deposit is required for all events.

EXPENSE DEPOSIT

The expense deposit is a deposit paid to cover all estimated personnel, equipment and insurance, as well as any other costs that fall outside of the rent. It will be used to cover all expenses and any unused portion will be refunded at the time of settlement.

AVERAGE COST

The average cost of an event is based on the rent combined with the expense deposit. While costs vary widely, nonprofit events have average expenses of $2,500 to $3,000. Weddings and Private Parties basic package price is $10,000.

CATERING & BAR SERVICE

You are welcome to use any licensed caterer of your choice, provided they are properly licensed and insured, adhere to our Rules and Regulations, and conduct a site visit prior to the event. A list of approved vendors will be provided. Ask for more information if you intend to sell alcohol or provide as part of event attendance ticket price.

Rental
EQUIPMENT

FURNISHING EQUIPMENT RENTAL FLAT FEE

  • 501(c)(3) / Government Flat Fee $200
  • Standard Flat Fee $500

Rental Flat Fee includes use of the following:

  • Stack chairs with green padded backs and seats
  • 6′ and 8′ Rectangular tables 30″ wide, ¾” lip
  •  6′ and 8′ Rectangular tables 18″ wide, ¾” lip
  • 60″ Round tables
  • 60″ Round tables on wheels
  • 48″ Round tables on wheels
  • 30″ Round tables
  • 30″ Round kiosk tables
  • 4′ Two-tier table
  • 6′ Two-13′ Folding partition screen
  • 4′ x 5′ Decorative Folding screen
  • Rubber interlocking matting sections
  • 3′ x 5′ rug mats
  • Easels
  • Coat racks with hangers
  • Music stands

SOUND, ELECTRICAL, AND STAGE EQUIPMENT

Additional Rental Fees Apply

  • 9′ Baldwin concert grand piano with tuning: Varies
  • Standard Sound system (4 speakers & 2 mics): $125
  • Microphones (each additional): $5
  •  Up Lights: $25 each; $180 for 9; $360 for 18; $500 for 27
  • 75″ Television Monitor: $250*
  • Projector and Screen: $150*
  • PA Speaker, Meyer UPJ 1-P (Upgraded Sound): $25 each*
  • Wireless Mic: $25*
  • Lectern, 4′ high with 6″-fold-out step and gooseneck for mic: $25
  • Staging sections with carpeted top, skirting and one set of stairs – 4′ x 8′ sections, 2′ tall: $30 each

* – Union stagehand required to install and operate audio, visual, and lighting equipment.

Booking INFORMATION

Please note: A minimum of 6 weeks is required to plan, contract, staff, and execute your event in the Green Room. Shorter booking timeframes may not be possible.

1. INITIAL INQUIRY

Contact us to check availability of your desired date(s). Be prepared with alternate dates and a clear sense of your event and its timeline. If your desired date(s) appear open and your event is compatible with the venue, you may place a hold. We welcome wedding ceremonies and receptions during the months of July and August only.

2. APPLICATION & RENTAL DEPOSIT

In order to secure the date, submit a completed application together with the rental deposit (one half of the base rent).

3. LICENSE AGREEMENT

We issue a Short Term License Agreement (STLA). Next steps:

  • Sign and return the STLA and related documents.
  • Pay the balance of the rent.

4. EVENT & SITE VISIT

Forty-five (45) days prior to your event, submit a floor plan and a completed Appendix C, which details your event timeline, technical elements and needed equipment. Confirm desired guest services, food and beverage requirements and any additional needs. Additionally, conduct a site visit with your caterer. Site visits are by appointment.

5. PAY EXPENSES DEPOSIT & INSURANCE

No less than four-weeks prior to your event, furnish proof of insurance and pay your expenses deposit to cover the total estimated cost of labor and equipment. See Fees & Expenses for more information.

No less than four-weeks prior to your event, furnish proof of insurance and pay your expenses deposit to cover the total estimated cost of labor and equipment. See Fees & Expenses for more information.

6. SETTLEMENT

Following your event, you will receive a full settlement and a refund of the unused portion of the expenses deposit. This process typically takes two weeks.

7. CHALLENGE PROCEDURE

If another party has a hold on your desired date, you may challenge their hold by submitting a completed application and a check for the full base rental fee. The challenged party will then have two working days to pay the rental fee or release the challenged date. Only one held date can be challenged at a time. If your challenge is successful, the rental fee is not refundable.

Rules &
REGULATIONS

ACCESS

Hours specified in the Short Term License Agreement (STLA) are the only hours Licensee and their staff, vendors, performers, volunteers and guests may access The Green Room or its support spaces. War Memorial staff must be present at all times. Events must end at 11:30 pm, unless prior approval is granted by the War Memorial.

SET-UP & BREAK DOWN

Licensee is responsible for all set-up and break down in The Green Room, and for proper movement and storage of all equipment. Should equipment be moved while an event is in progress, clear guests from the area where the work occurs. Chairs should be left in The Green Room and restacked in racks of eight. The Green Room must be left clean and clear of equipment or additional cleaning fees will apply. Cleaning supplies beyond a mop and broom are not provided.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Only licensed and insured caterers may provide food and beverage service in The Green Room. Caterers must have a manager on site at all times.

  • Consumption of food and beverage is permitted only in The Green Room and on its loggia.
  • Sale of food or beverages is permitted only with prior War Memorial approval and requires appropriate licenses.
  • Food and beverage service areas must be matted. Ice must be delivered and moved in plastic tubs.
  • Only ice and liquids may be disposed of in sinks (no coffee grounds or foodstuffs). Do not dispose of ice in restroom sinks, toilets or on the lawn.
  • Should leaking or spills occur, clean them immediately.
  • Licensees and their caterers are responsible for removal of all ice and garbage from The Green Room following the event.

CAPACITY

There is no admission of persons in excess of the capacity approved at time of booking.

CARE & PROTECTION

Special care should be taken to preserve and protect floors, walls, elevators and equipment. Use carts and dollies with rubber wheels to prevent scratching floors. Avoid dragging or rolling metal items, and items with metal edges, bases or glides. There is no use of tape, staples, tacks or nails to affix materials.

STORAGE

All equipment and supplies must be removed promptly following the event. Storage is not available.

CANDLES & HEATING DEVICES

Bottled gas is not permitted. Use of candles, open flame, sterno and electrical equipment must be approved in advance, and candleholders must meet specifications of the San Francisco Fire Code (i.e. candleholders extend 2” above the flame). The use of sterno and flame candles requires a fire permit.

ITEMS NOT PERMITTED

Bottled gas in any form, “fog” or “smoke” producing equipment, balloons, birdseed or rice for throwing, keg beer, confetti, glitter or loose flower petals.

KITCHEN PREP ROOM

Use of a modern catering kitchen is included in the rental. The kitchen must be left clean and clear of equipment or additional fees will apply. Provision of cleaning supplies is the responsibility of the caterer or licensee.

NOISE LEVELS

Because we are a multi-use venue, we cannot permit bands with amplification. Doors to The Green Room must remain closed whenever music or entertainment is occurring in The Green Room or the Herbst Theatre. During Herbst Theatre performances, corridor noise should be kept to a minimum so as not to disrupt their audiences.

POSTING OF DISPLAY MATERIALS

Use of display areas is a non-exclusive right and Licensee will not post or allow to be posted any signs, cards or posters on the premises, except as approved in advance.

SMOKING

Smoking is prohibited by law inside the Veterans Building. This includes no smoking on The Green Room loggia.

RESTORATION

When load out is complete, Licensee or their designated representative will accompany the War Memorial Event Manager on an inspection of all areas used for the event. The Contingency Deposit may be withheld if:

  • Licensee does not complete room break down and restoration.
  • Event access hours exceed those specified in the STLA.
  • There has been damage to the facility or its equipment.
  • Additional funds are required for rent, personnel fees or equipment rentals.

SECURITY GUARDS

War Memorial Security Staff is responsible for building security. Additional private security can be arranged as needed by the War Memorial. The Veterans Building is open to the public and home to a wide variety of tenants. Specific event security needs should be presented at the time of booking.

Wedding Ceremonies &
RECEPTIONS

The Green Room welcomes wedding ceremonies and receptions during the months of July and August only. All wedding bookings must be managed by a wedding planner.

Contact us to check availability of your desired date. Availability is limited, so be prepared with alternate dates and a clear sense of the timeline, technical needs, expected guest count and desired services.

Frequently 
ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes. All vendors must be approved by the War Memorial. A list of approved vendors will be provided in advance upon request.

See Equipment for an inventory.

Deadlines for paying Rent and Fees will be outlined in your Short Term License Agreement (STLA).

No parking is available on the premises. All loading and unloading is done through the Veterans Building service elevator (rather than the passenger elevators). The white zone on Van Ness Avenue is available for a limited number of vehicles to drop off and pick up equipment and supplies. There is no loading dock, so delivery trucks should be equipped with a ramp or lift gate. See Directions & Parking for more information.

There is no onsite parking available. See Directions & Parking.

Access hours will be determined at the time of booking. War Memorial staff must be present at all times Licensee and their staff, performers, volunteers and guests are in the building.

The Green Room is accessible by elevator and an ADA-compliant ramp. Accessible restrooms are located near The Green Room entrance.

As we are a performing arts center, our facility does not have support rooms, Wi-Fi or many other amenities typically found at conference centers.

We welcome private parties, anniversaries, and wedding ceremonies and receptions during the months of July and August only.

No. As a multi-use venue, we are not able to accommodate youth events, such as proms, dances, bar/bat mitzvahs, debuts, cotillions, or quinceañeras.

Yes. War Memorial staff is pleased to conduct site visits, available by appointment only and dependent upon the schedule of the venue.

The City of San Francisco’s open public network is the only available WiFi service. The War Memorial does not have control over this network, and it can be slow or unreliable at times.

San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center

401 Van Ness Avenue, Room 110 | San Francisco CA 94102
P: 415.621.6600 F: 415.621.5091