Nestled in the heart of downtown Abilene, the handsomely restored historic Elks Arts Center first opened as the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Lodge 562 on January 1, 1913. Merry revelers attending the grand opening danced all night, marking the first of many celebrations to take place in the distinctive Italianate-Romanesque Revival building.
Venue spaces at the Elks are both highly functional and aesthetically stunning. From a business meeting for 15, to a classic wedding for 170, our unique spaces accommodate a variety of special events. Look through our venue spaces and connect with our team to further discussions and consideration. Our rental team is ready to assist you in booking the perfect space for your dream wedding, reception, party, meeting, or other special event. It’s time to make your mark in history at the Elks Arts Center.
APL Board Room
Comfortably located for board and business meetings, the beautiful board room is adorned with a collection of photographs featuring historical bygone buildings of Abilene. Our boardroom is fully furnished with a large central table and seating for 15. Click here to see more →
Ballroom
Our ballroom stands out with its timeless elegance. Featuring the original dramatic, arched-windows, maple wood floors, and dimming lights, the Elks ballroom is the oldest historic ballroom with a clear line of sight for all guests in the Big Country, making it picture perfect for your dream wedding or special event. Click Here to See More →
Lower Level
Looking for a more intimate space for a celebration or party? Featuring a ceiling of antique pressed tin tiles and a concrete floor, our warm and inviting lower level is a blank canvas where you can bring your vision to life. Click here to see more →
Making History at the Elks
With the cake topper and a framed photo from his wedding in hand, along with flowers, cake, and music prepared, Victor Lopez excitedly decorated a corner of the Elks Ballroom the morning of December 5th, 2019. Later that afternoon, Victor brought his wife, Sharon, to the building under the pretext that he found a dance class. Instead, it was a surprise date to celebrate 50 years of marriage.
Victor said of the occasion, “We’ve been celebrating our 50th anniversary all year, having travelled to may places around the United States, but the Elks is a special place for us. It holds so many memories. We celebrated our 40th anniversary, both of our 60th birthdays, and our grandson’s induction into the Hardin-Simmons University Honor Society here. We’ve also catered several events here.”
Victor and Sharon danced the afternoon away, stopping only to eat cake, creating one more sweet memory at the Elks.
Are you ready for your memorable experience?
