Frequently asked questions

There are a number of locations on Parks Canada property that are suitable for a wedding ceremony. The Amphitheatre overlooking the St. Boniface Cathedral is by far the most popular. However, there are several other lovely areas available depending on your needs. Parks Canada and the staff of The Forks National Historic Site would be happy to show you a number of options.

The Amphitheatre platform can hold a maximum of 120 folding chairs. However, many more people can be accommodated seated or standing on the limestone area around the platform or standing on the platform itself. Many couples choose to bring only a few chairs for guests who need to sit. Other locations on site can accommodate varying numbers of guests.

The Forks has become a very popular wedding ceremony location in the last few years and Saturdays in the summer usually book up about a year in advance. It is recommended that you book the location as soon as you set your date to avoid disappointment. A portion of your total event fees will be paid at the time of your preliminary site visit as a non-refundable deposit.

Unfortunately, Parks Canada does not have a covered area that can be used for your wedding ceremony in case of rain. Parks Canada strongly recommends that you arrange an alternate location in the event of inclement weather. Some reception venues may allow you to use their space as a backup ceremony location in the case of inclement weather.

The Amphitheatre can flood at any time of year, and is particularly prone to flooding in May and June. In that case, Parks Canada would be happy to host your ceremony at an alternate location on site. If you do not have your ceremony at The Forks due to inclement weather or flooding, a portion of your fees will be refunded.

The location of the ceremony is reserved for your exclusive use during your ceremony, and Parks Canada will do its best to ensure only your guests access the designated area. A Parks Canada staff person will be on hand in case of any confusion. However, The Forks is a public place and as such we cannot guarantee the same level of privacy as an indoor location.

Parks Canada cannot be responsible for your personal or rental property while it is on our site. We recommend you designate a family member or friend to be on site during the items’ arrival and stay there until they are removed.

For small events, Parks Canada can provide wooden benches for an additional fee. A sound system with a Bluetooth-compatible speaker, microphone, and stands is available for most bookings for an additional fee. Chairs, decor, floral displays, and event signage must all be arranged by the event organizer.

We would be happy to show you the locations around the site that have electrical access. For events at the Amphitheatre, you will need to bring battery-operated devices or a 250-foot extension cord.

You can have a rehearsal prior to the wedding. You must inform Parks Canada of your rehearsal date and time to ensure the space is available. If you would like to have a Parks Canada staff member present for the rehearsal (especially if you would like to test your sound system or other electronic devices), fees will apply for the additional rental time.

Most couples find that beginning to set up 1.5 to 2 hours before their ceremony is adequate. This minimizes the amount of time your items are outside but gives you enough time to set up what you need.

A limited number of vehicles are permitted on site during your rental period for the purposes of delivering décor or equipment, transporting guests with mobility needs, and shuttling the wedding party. Usually, the maximum number of vehicles admitted per rental period is three (3). Depending on the location of your ceremony, extra-long vehicles may not be permitted due to tight corners. Your Parks Canada contact will be able to discuss options with you as you plan your event.

Unfortunately, Parks Canada does not have any parking areas. We recommend your guests park in the general parking lots and comply with parking fees and rules. If you would like reserved parking for your guests, The Forks Renewal Corporation can arrange this for a fee, provided there are no large events happening.

Parks Canada does not allow confetti, rose petals or any other items to be thrown. Following the ceremony, the site must be left in the condition in which it was found. Additional cleaning fees may be applied if garbage or other materials are left at the site. Having guests blow bubbles, twirl streamers or ring bells are some recommended alternatives.

Pets are welcome to be part of your ceremony provided they are on a leash no longer than three (3) metres long at all times and you clean up after them.

There is no additional fee for wedding photos if you are renting facilities for your ceremony.

If you wish to use the site just for a wedding photo shoot, please contact us.

There are washrooms located in the Orientation Circle, a short walk from the Amphitheatre.

The Forks is a very busy place with many events year-round. Parks Canada will inform you of any known events on your proposed date. However, there are many landowners at The Forks, and some events may even be booked on short notice, after you have booked your wedding. Parks Canada will not book an event on our property that will conflict with your wedding. Please be aware that other events may be booked in areas not administered by Parks Canada.