Fairfax Pavilion Rental

Historical Overview

Legend has it that the Miwok people considered this knoll among the redwoods a sacred space long before the Pavilion was built in 1921. Starting in the late 1800s, people began riding the North Coast Railroad to Fairfax from San Francisco and other parts to picnic in the fresh country air. Since no party is complete without dancing, the town constructed the stately red Pavilion to house the largest dance floor on the West Coast.

Through the decades, the Pavilion has seen various activities and events:

• 1920s: Flappers danced the Charleston.
• 1930s: Vaudeville and cabaret groups raised money for Marin County's unemployed.
• 1940s: Roller skating to Big Band tunes.
• 1950s-1970s: Hosted sports activities, including a boxing ring and pool tables.
• San Francisco Music Scene: Hosted iconic acts like Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, and the Grateful Dead.

The Pavilion now houses the Fairfax Recreation and Community Services Department, the Artist in Residence studio, and the Fairfax Theatre Company. It hosts youth sports, theatrical performances, gymnastics, festivals, and many celebrations, including weddings and birthday parties.

News coverage

In May 2024, the Marin Independent Journal published a piece highlighting the Fairfax Pavilion as the "heart of the town". Read it here.

Fairfax Residents

• Non-Profit Group: $80 per hour
• Private Event: $190 per hour
• Youth Rate: $55 per hour ($150 security deposit)

Non-Residents

• Non-Profit Groups: $135 per hour
• Private Events: $225 per hour
• Youth Rate: $55 per hour ($150 security deposit)

Deposits

• Damage and Security Deposit: $450 ($550 if alcohol is served)
• Maintenance Fee: $75 (non-refundable)

Additional Information

• A $450 damage and security deposit ($550 if alcohol is served) is required to reserve the building.
• A $75 non-refundable maintenance fee is charged for ongoing building maintenance.
• The deposit is refunded if the building is left in the same or better condition.
• Groups requesting non-profit rates must show IRS certification of tax-exempt status to qualify for the lower rate.

For further details on capacity, day rates, and what is included, please see the Facilities Use Form.