Event Rentals

An event setting unlike any other in Boston

To host a private event at the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston, individuals are required to become members of our Director’s Circle. Corporations interested in hosting an event at the museum are required to join our Corporate Membership program

The new ICA is the perfect place to host your special event, combining stunning works of art with breathtaking views of Boston's harbor and skyline. The innovative cuisine and impeccable service of Wolfgang Puck Catering, our exclusive caterer, ensures a culinary experience equal to the exquisite setting of our museum.

The purpose of allowing events at the museum is to increase community awareness of the new ICA, while at the same time offering organizations and individuals a unique and fun way to actively support the museum. The events policy and fee structure have been designed with careful consideration of the impact these events will have on both the facility and the staff.

General Usage
The following types of rental events are not permitted at the ICA: art displays or the auction of art for any reason; education and design-related events not presented or approved by the ICA; and commercial events and performances which are not part of the ICA's formal programming, or where entrance requires advance or on-site ticket purchase. Promotional, political, and nonprofit fundraising events will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Weddings are allowed at the ICA, but only if the couple rents the entire museum and hires a pre-approved event planner to assist with the planning. 

Rental Spaces available for rent at the ICA:
 

State Street Corporation Lobby
Bounded on the west and north sides by towering glass walls overlooking Boston's skyline, the east side displays Sandra and Gerald Fineberg Art Wall, featuring large-scale works by leading contemporary artists. This space provides a dramatic setting for any event.

Water Café by Wolfgang Puck
Located just off the lobby and overlooking the HarborWalk, the Water Café offers a more intimate event space. The north wall of the Café features sliding glass doors which open onto the Putnam Investments Plaza, a sheltered outdoor patio at the water's edge.  Please note that sliding glass doors will only be opened to the Putnam Investments Plaza at the discretion of the facilities manager, contingent on temperature and weather.

Putnam Investments Plaza
Located at the water's edge, the Putnam Investments Plaza offers an outdoor patio with striking views. In inclement weather, the Putnam Investments Plaza can be tented and heated. An additional cost applies to the rental, installation, and strike of the tent.

Barbara Lee Family Foundation Theater
Located on the second floor of the museum, the theater provides magnificent views of Boston Harbor and the downtown skyline. The glass walls of the theater can be covered by three different layers of shade, ranging from sheer to complete blackout, or remain uncovered to reveal the stunning backdrop.
   With 325 seats, it is an ideal space for annual meetings, product introductions,
   award presentations, and other special events. Final capacity is based on
   design of all event components and equipment requirements. Rental of the
   theater includes the use of A/V and sound equipment contained in the space.
   Additional costs will be assessed for technical staff and extra equipment
   needs.
 

   All capacities are contingent on arrangement and design of event including
   food stations and seating.