Events at Duke Chapel

Duke Chapel is happy to welcome university departments, groups, and other gatherings to reserve the Chapel space for events, graduations, and other services. We have a variety of spaces that are open for reservations, including the main Nave (seats 1,200) and Memorial Chapel (seats 48) as well as basement spaces such as our lounge and kitchen. 

All event reservations are subject to the availability of the Chapel on the date requested. Priority will be given to Duke groups holding events in line with the mission of the Chapel and the aims of the university. We attempt to accommodate requests made far in advance while also holding open times for events that are typically planned with less notice such as vigils, memorials, baptisms, and student Religious Life services.

To schedule an event, please:

  1. Fill out our Event Inquiry Form, and review our event policies.
  2. Confirm an available time slot with our Hospitality staff, who will then put your time on hold.
  3. Complete our Event Request Form after receiving it from Chapel staff. 
  4. Follow up with the next steps provided with our Hospitality staff, scheduling A/V services, music, and other vendors as needed.
  5. Schedule your event walk-through.
  6. Finalize the details for your event.

Please read through our Event Organizer Responsibilities before reaching out for an event.

Event Request Form

FAQs

While there is no fee for university groups hoping to reserve the Chapel, any costs for repairs, clean-up, equipment replacement, or other reasons related to an event will be charged to the event organizer. Outside groups should contact us about space rental fees.

While priority is given to Duke-affiliated groups and departments, we do allow external groups to reserve Chapel spaces. Groups not part of Duke University should contact us at dukechapel@duke.edu about event reservation fees and terms for external events.

The Chapel has a built-in sound, light, and video system, which may only be operated by Chapel staff or Duke Technical Services. Video recording, webcasting, and overflow video is also available. Please contact Duke Technical Services at techsvcs@duke.edu with your specific AV needs. They will provide an estimate of cost and time.