Event Tent Rental at Petrie Island
The Special Event Tent is the perfect space for large gatherings, birthday parties, events, and more. Located near the nature area and Picnic Area 2, it offers a spacious, sheltered setting with convenient access to nearby amenities.
Event Tent Features & Amenities
- Seating & Tables:
- Comes with 8-10 picnic tables underneath.
- Tables can be removed, rearranged, or additional tables (1-2) can be placed around upon request.
- Electricity Access:
- Available through an extension cord connection if needed.
- Proximity to Amenities:
- 2-minute walk to the smaller supervised beach.
- 5-minute walk to restrooms.
- 5-minute walk to the bus stop.
- Closest area to the nature trails.
- Vehicle access allowed for easy drop-off of food, supplies, and gear.
VIP Parking Add-On (Event Tent Rentals)
VIP Parking at Petrie Island (Trial Program)
To improve organization, safety, and overall visitor experience, we will be introducing a VIP Parking option for Event Tent rentals on a trial basis for the upcoming 2026 season.
What is VIP Parking?
VIP Parking provides convenient access to a designated parking area located directly beside the Event Tent. This area is typically reserved for staff and authorized personnel.
Details & Pricing:
- Maximum of 2 vehicles per booking
- $10 per vehicle
- Available only to Event Tent rental clients
- Vehicles must be registered in advance (license plate required)
How It Works:
Clients who choose VIP Parking will be permitted to park in the designated gated lot for the duration of their rental. This provides easy access for unloading supplies and remaining close to the event space.
Important Notes:
- VIP Parking is optional and not required for your booking
- All guests are still welcome to use the City of Ottawa paid parking areas on the island
- All vehicles using VIP Parking must be registered prior to arrival
- Only approved vehicles will be permitted beyond the gate
Standard Access (Included with Rental):
All Event Tent bookings include short-term vehicle access (approximately 5 minutes) for unloading supplies or assisting guests with accessibility needs.
This access is available during staffed hours (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM), when a staff member or volunteer is onsite to assist with gate access.
Outside of these hours, the service gate remains locked. If VIP Parking has been arranged in advance, a volunteer will coordinate gate access for your arrival and departure times.
To ensure smooth access, all VIP Parking requests must be arranged ahead of time so that a volunteer can be scheduled accordingly.
Why This Change?
This system helps ensure fair use of the space, prevents overcrowding, and improves safety for both visitors and wildlife on the island.
Interested in booking VIP Parking or have questions?
Please reach out to our volunteers/summer staff at friendsofpetrieisland97@gmail.com or call 613-699-3366.
Reserve the Special Event Tent
Please verify that your date is available in the calendar.
Cancellation policy: Clients may cancel their bookings due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. This applies to bookings for tents, tables, BBQ permits, or programming events. If a cancellation is made in advance, clients are eligible to request a refund, which will have an administrative fee deducted. The fee for processing a refund for the special event tent rental is $5 per tent reservation. Refunds will be made in the same form as the initial payment. The fee will be deducted from the total amount of the refund.