Food & Beverage
The Aquarium of the Pacific requires that all food and beverage for special events be catered by our contracted provider SAVOR… We are not able to allow outside caterers.
Our professional catering staff will assist you with your food and beverage needs. We can customize menus and banquet themes for your event.
Food and beverage prices include set-up of house tables, china and linens (up to 200). For events above 200 please inquire about fees. Please add 22% service charge plus current California sales tax to the menu prices. Prices are subject to change.
Menu selection should take place at least two months prior to your event date. To ensure the best quality, we ask that you choose one menu option for your entire group for plated meals. However, substitutions due to dietary restrictions can always be arranged.
Placement of food and beverage stations in the aquarium is based on lighting availability, exhibit restrictions, and fire code requirements. Your catering contact will develop a floor plan that fits your needs and that follows the Aquarium guidelines.
A final guarantee of the number of guests is due by 12 noon, three working days prior to your event. We automatically prepare food for 5% more guests than your final guarantee, up to 1,000 people. For groups larger than 1,000, we will prepare food for 5% over your final guarantee. You will be charged for the food and beverage according to the final guarantee number or the actual number in attendance, whichever is greater.
Aquarium Staff
We provide a catering sales manager, event supervisor, event host, banquet manager, and security staff for all events. The Aquarium of the Pacific requires that all food and beverage for special events be catered by our contracted provider: SAVOR… CATERING by SMG. We are not able to allow outside caterers.
The event supervisor will assist you with details regarding event space, logistics, guest entry, music, and decorations. Our professional catering staff will assist you with your food and beverage needs. We can customize menus and banquet themes for your event.
Food and beverage prices include set-up of house tables, china, and linens (up to 200). For events for more than 200 people, please inquire about additional fees. Please add a 22 % service charge plus the current California sales tax to the menu prices. Prices are subject to change.
Menu selection should take place at least two months prior to your event date. To ensure the best quality, we ask that you choose one menu option for your entire group for plated meals. Of course, substitutions due to dietary restrictions can always be arranged.
Placement of food and beverage stations in the Aquarium is based on lighting availability, exhibit restrictions, and fire code requirements. Your catering contact will develop a floor plan that fits your needs and that follows the Aquarium guidelines.
A final guarantee of the number of guests is due by 12 noon, three working days prior to your event. We automatically prepare food for 5% more guests than your final guarantee, up to 1,000 people. For groups larger than 1,000, we will prepare food for 3% over your final guarantee. You will be charged for the food and beverage according to the final guarantee number or the actual number in attendance, whichever is greater.
Deposits & Payments
The Aquarium of the Pacific requires an initial deposit of $5,000. A second deposit of 100% of all estimated costs is due two weeks prior to the event. The balances of all remaining charges are due at the conclusion of the event.
Decorations
We can arrange for decorations, floral centerpieces, and special linen rental. All decor and vendors must be approved in advance by the Aquarium’s operational staff (handling fees may apply).
Because of the sensitivity of our exhibits and the environment, no confetti, sand, live fish, sea shells or dried marine life, glitter, rice, bird seed, adhesive tape, monofilament line, or Mylar ribbon are allowed in the Aquarium. No fire is allowed either.
Facility
We require that nothing be posted, nailed, screwed, or otherwise attached to the walls, floors, exhibit graphics, or other parts of the buildings, furnishings, or surroundings.
All decorations, promotional materials, supplies, and rental equipment must be removed immediately following the event. The Aquarium is not responsible for any materials or equipment left behind.
Music & Entertainment
We can assist you with a wide variety of entertainment options including magicians, casino tables, live bands, and more. The Aquarium must approve all entertainment selections in advance. All band and entertainment personnel must meet with an Aquarium event supervisor to review their electrical, lighting, and other requirements at least two weeks before the event. Any amplified music may be subject to volume control at the discretion of the event coordinator or security staff for the health of the animals.
Audio Visuals
An event coordinator can arrange for all audio-visual needs. Please note: there is a charge for the use of Aquarium audio-visual equipment, based on your needs. Technicians are required for all extensive set-ups at an extra cost.
Security
Aquarium security personnel will be onsite during your event. In case of an emergency, call security at (562) 951-1733 to reach your group on the night of the event.
The Aquarium of the Pacific does not assume responsibility for the damage or loss of any merchandise or articles brought into the Aquarium or for any item left unattended.
Outside Vendors
All outside vendors must meet with an event supervisor no later than two weeks before the event to coordinate delivery times, set-up locations, pick-up schedules, etc. Scheduled deliveries may be made the day of the event only, as the Aquarium has limited storage facilities. Please note that all décor and decorations must be pre-approved by the Aquarium’s catering department.
Parking
Parking is available in the City-owned Pike parking structure across from the Aquarium. We offer both hosted and non-hosted parking. Please inquire with your sales manager for current rates and billing information.
Exhibits & Lighting
The aviary exhibit is closed at dusk because of the sensitivity of the animals. Aquarium exhibits are subject to change or repair without notice. An event supervisor will inform you of any changes in the exhibits prior to your event. Aquarium exhibit graphics must remain lit during events.
