What Size Marquee Do I Need?
A practical guide to choosing the right marquee size based on your guest count, event type and layout.
Quick Rule of Thumb
10 sq ft
per seated guest
(including tables)
6 sq ft
per standing guest
(reception / drinks)
+20%
for a dance floor
(or stage / bar area)
Size chart by guest count
Standard marquee sizes for seated dining with round tables.
| Guests | Dining Only | + Dance Floor | + Bar & Lounge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 6m x 6m | 6m x 9m | 6m x 12m |
| 50 | 6m x 9m | 6m x 12m | 9m x 12m |
| 80 | 9m x 12m | 9m x 15m | 12m x 15m |
| 100 | 9m x 15m | 12m x 15m | 12m x 18m |
| 120 | 12m x 15m | 12m x 18m | 15m x 18m |
| 150 | 12m x 18m | 15m x 18m | 15m x 21m |
| 200 | 15m x 18m | 15m x 21m | 18m x 21m |
| 250 | 15m x 21m | 18m x 21m | 18m x 24m |
| 300 | 18m x 21m | 18m x 24m | 21m x 24m |
What affects the size you need
Table layout
Round tables seat 8-10 but take more space than long trestle tables. A banquet-style layout with long tables is more space-efficient.
Dance floor
A dance floor for 100 guests needs approximately 5m x 5m (25 sqm). Add this to your dining area calculation.
Bar area
A bar with standing space needs roughly 3m x 6m (18 sqm). Can be inside the marquee or in a separate attached structure.
Catering
If caterers are working inside the marquee, they need a screened kitchen area. Budget 3m x 4m minimum.
Stage or band
A 4-piece band needs roughly 4m x 3m. A DJ needs less. Add this to your layout.
Entrance / lobby
A covered entrance or reception area prevents bottlenecks. A pagoda or porch extension works well.
Size by event type
| Event | Space per person | 100 guests |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding (seated dinner + dance) | 12-15 sq ft | 12m x 15m |
| Birthday party (buffet + dance) | 8-10 sq ft | 9m x 12m |
| Corporate conference (theatre) | 6-8 sq ft | 9m x 9m |
| Drinks reception (standing) | 6 sq ft | 6m x 12m |
| Festival / outdoor party | 8-10 sq ft | 9m x 12m |
Tips from suppliers
- Always round up. A slightly larger marquee feels comfortable. A slightly too-small one feels cramped and you'll regret it.
- Book a site visit. Suppliers can measure the ground, check for slopes, and recommend the optimal size and orientation.
- Consider the season. Winter events need heating, which takes space for equipment. Summer events can open the sides for extra flow.
- If you're unsure, most suppliers will draw a floor plan showing your layout. Ask for this before confirming the size.