The Elks Lodge is more than just a venue—it’s a space where memories are made, traditions are upheld, and creativity thrives. My husband, Tommy, and I have had the privilege of serving as event coordinators at the lodge, and over the years, we’ve seen this space take on countless identities. From lively Jeep Jamborees to elegant weddings, the lodge room has proven time and again that it can be whatever people dream it to be.
A Space for Any Occasion The lodge room itself can accommodate up to 250 guests, making it one of the more spacious event venues in Big Bear. One of the longest-running events we host is Jeep Jamboree, a decades-old tradition that fills the room with energy. We pack in long tables, chairs lined up tightly, and the crowd’s camaraderie makes for an unforgettable experience. Between the table drumming, noisemakers, and team spirit, it feels like a fraternity reunion in the best way possible. To serve a full crowd of 250 people, we often run two buffet lines with catering by the Cookshak, getting everyone fed within 45 minutes—a well-oiled machine at work!
Beyond large-scale events, we’ve hosted birthday parties, quinceañeras, anniversaries, baby showers, and graduation celebrations. It never ceases to amaze me how people come in with a vision, tape measures in hand, meticulously planning their transformation of the space. Within a few hours, the room is reborn. From grand, ornate decorations to minimalistic elegance, each setup tells its own story.
A Historic Yet Budget-Friendly Venue
The Elks Lodge isn’t just another event hall; it has history. Once a schoolhouse decades ago, it now serves as a community hub that offers an affordable space for those looking to host events without breaking the bank. While we may not be the most modern venue, we provide a rustic charm that many find appealing.
One of the things I love most about our rentals is the spirit of community involvement. Unlike traditional event halls, the people helping to monitor events—taking out the trash, refilling coffee, and cleaning up—are volunteers. Seeing this dedication often inspires guests to become Elks members themselves. As a bonus, members receive discounted rental rates, making it a win-win for those looking to save while supporting a meaningful cause.
Weddings with a Personal Touch
I’ve had the honor of attending several weddings at the Elks Lodge, including my own. Each one is unique, reflecting the couple’s personal style and budget. Some couples choose us for our affordability, while others appreciate the amount of space we offer and the simplicity of our rental process. With no hidden fees or complicated contracts, planning a wedding here is refreshingly straightforward—because who needs more hassle on their big day?
An Underrated Gem: The Patio
In my opinion, our patio is an underutilized treasure. With a small stage perfect for live music, a charming rose garden, and a clean, versatile concrete floor, it offers plenty of possibilities. Whether for cocktail hours, intimate gatherings, or even small outdoor ceremonies, this space has untapped potential.
The Newly Remodeled Front Bar
We recently gave our front bar area a facelift, embracing a New Orleans theme that adds character and charm. While the lodge room hosts the main events, this bar space is often used as a secondary event area, perfect for merchandise tables, auctions, and cocktail hours. I’m excited to see how future renters make use of this unique space!
A Space for the Visionaries
The Elks Lodge isn’t a high-end ballroom, but it is a blank canvas with endless possibilities. We have served as the backdrop for countless organizations, families, and couples who have turned our space into something extraordinary. If you have a vision, this venue can bring it to life. With the right creativity, the Elks Lodge can be whatever you want it to be.
We look forward to seeing what you create next!