Weddings at River Farm

Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

PLAN YOUR DREAM GARDEN WEDDING AT RIVER FARM

River Farm remains a premier garden wedding venue in the DC Metro area, renowned for its 25 acres of historic property that were once part of George Washington’s farmland. As the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society, this award-winning venue features stunning gardens and scenic Potomac River views. Whether you envision an unforgettable outdoor garden wedding or an elegant indoor ceremony within the historic Manor House, River Farm offers an idyllic backdrop for any occasion.

Top Wedding Ceremony and Reception Spaces

GARDEN WALK

A picturesque haven where a charming brick pathway leads to a beautiful trellis pergola, surrounded by a vibrant and ever-changing tapestry of seasonal plants. Our most popular location for wedding ceremonies and elopements. Photo credit: Erin Kelleher

Capacity: 140 guests seated

River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia is the ideal event venue for an outdoor event surrounded by beautiful gardens. The brick pathway makes a picturesque runway for brides.
Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

THE RIVER VIEW

A breathtaking backdrop of stunning natural beauty along the Potomac River, complemented by a stately old Black Walnut Tree just beyond our ha-ha wall, remnants from the property’s 18th century landscape. (Note: requires hauling equipment down to the meadow). Photo Credit: Erin Kelleher

Capacity: 500 guests seated or standing

 

THE GRANDE FORECOURT

A stunning wedding space with lush grass, a circular stone pathway, sweeping vistas of the Potomac River, and the grandeur of the Manor House. This iconic location offers the flexibility to create a ceremony that perfectly reflects your unique style, making it an unforgettable choice for your special day. Photo credit: Rodney Bailey Photographers

Capacity: 250 guests seated or 300 standing

Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.
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THE PARLOR

A warm and inviting space flooded with natural light and stunning vista of the Potomac River. Antique furniture, along with a baby grand piano and local artwork adorning the walls, adds character and charm. It’s an ideal place for a bridal suite or groom’s retreat, providing a peaceful and private space for the bride or groom to prepare. Photo credit: Erin Kelleher

Capacity: 25 guests seated

Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

THE BALLROOM

An elegant and versatile room bathed in the glow of a stunning chandelier and framed by  local artwork. The Ballroom is perfect for ceremonies, receptions, and cocktail hours and can easily accommodate dancing and dessert stations. Sophisticated and flexible, it’s the ideal setting for an unforgettable wedding day. Photo credit: Mary Bell

Capacity: 50 guests at tables, 60 seated theater-style, or 80 standing

Guests at a wedding at River Farm under a clear-topped event tent in a garden.

THE SLATED PATIO

An exquisite setting beneath River Farm’s garden-style tent, featuring clear sidewalls, a clear canopy and sophisticated black detailing that beautifully frames the surrounding landscape. Elegant chandeliers and tent fans complete the space, while the transparent design creates an open, airy connection to the garden and grounds. The overhead canopy may transition from clear to opaque seasonally based on weather and temperature conditions, providing added comfort during warmer months. Ideal for a seated dinner and dancing, the Slated Patio offers a striking setting that brings the beauty of River Farm’s gardens into the celebration. Photo credit: Vness Photography

Capacity: Up to 260 guests seated

RIVER FARM VENUE RENTAL DETAILS

Interested in learning about the venue capacity, booking process, catering options, and more? Discover what is included with a River Farm venue rental and find answers to commonly asked questions.

Access the River Farm Venue Rental FAQ page.

Let the Magic Begin!

Private Event & Wedding Tours by Appointment Only

River Farm is open to the public during visiting hours, and you are welcome to explore the grounds on your own. If you are interested in a personalized, private tour of the venue with our events team to walk through wedding or private event options, make an appointment today. Please fill out the form below.


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River Farm Highlights

Prime Location. One of the most desired Potomac-front wedding venues in the Washington, DC area, River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia is located just four miles south of Old Town Alexandria, a vibrant area for shopping and dining.

A Legacy. One of George Washington’s original five farms and the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society since 1973, River Farm has a significant historical and horticultural heritage.

Themed Gardens. From the serene tranquility of the Garden Calm to the whimsical charm of the Children’s Garden, each themed outdoor garden provides a breathtaking backdrop.

Vendor Flexibility. While planning and catering are selected from our approved list of vendors, you’ll enjoy flexibility across other vendor categories that aligns beautifully with your vision and budget. We also provide a curated list of trusted professionals to help make the planning process seamless.

River Farm has convenient spaces for vendors to set up and prepare meals on-site. Vendors can utilize the covered porch attached to the house or the spacious brick porch just outside. While cooking is not allowed inside the house, outdoor food prep is encouraged, with easy access to the indoor space for final plating and service. Buffets with sternos are permitted inside the house, but open flames are restricted to catering-specific uses. For ease of service, vendors may also set up tents on the grounds, providing direct access to the dinner tent or outdoor areas.

Amenities. Your wedding at River Farm includes full access to the gardens, grounds, and the grandeur of the manor house, with a private bridal suite and restroom upstairs for your comfort and ease. We offer ample parking, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and electricity within the Manor House and patio. Standard chairs are available to rent. River Farm is wheelchair accessible and pet friendly.

Gold VA Living Top Wedding Vendor Award
Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

Photo credit: Erin Wedding

Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

Photo credit: Meghan Marie Photography

Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.
Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

Photo credit: Meghan Marie Photography

Every location at River Farm offers a picturesque backdrop for a wedding moment, with its lush gardens, sweeping views of the Potomac River, and historic manor house providing endless opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.

Photo credit: Megan Rei

Bride and groom walking hand-in-hand along the serene Potomac River at River Farm, basking in the warm glow of a sunset amidst lush gardens and natural beauty, creating a romantic and unforgettable moment.

Photo credit: Purple Onion

Contact

River Farm Event Rental
703.768.5700 ext. 138
rentals@ahsgardening.org