Colonel Walker House Lawn - Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
Colonel Walker House Lawn - Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
Host your ceremony in a unique natural setting, complimented by the historic Walker House.
Photo gallery
Location information
- Lawn is beside the historic Colonel Walker House and sanctuary lagoon.
- Maximum capacity is 50 people.
- Washrooms are available in the Colonel Walker House. (stair access)
- Washrooms are available in the Inglewood Nature Centre. (wheelchair accessible)
Booking information
- You may book the lawn from May 1 to September 30.
- A permit is required for private use of spaces.
- Minimum booking is 2 hours.
- Set up and take down must be within your booking time.
- All decor items you would like to bring must be approved from Parks Venues, 1 month prior to the event.
- Items not allowed: pets, generators, glassware, lanterns, open flame, flower petals, bird seed, rice, confetti, balloons, bubbles, tents, runners, carpets, mats, dance floors.
- Catering is not permitted.
Booking rates
Below are the current rates – all prices include GST and are subject to change.
| Rooms and Packages | Capacity | 2026 Weekday rate (8a.m. - 4p.m.) | 2026 Weekend and after hours rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colonel Walker House Lawn | Up to 50 people | $87.74/hour | $152.06/hour |
*Lawn booking includes a photography permit. A $5.75 risk management fee will apply.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional services and fees
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Security | $30/hr | Applies for bookings with alcohol and after hours. |
| Staff fee | $50/hr | Based on event evaluation at the discretion of the venue. |
| Outdoor white folding chairs | $150 flat rate | Up to 50 chairs are available. |
| Cleaning fee | $75+ | Based on event evaluation at the discretion of the venue. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General booking information
When can I book a space at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary?
- Nature Centre: Year-round.
- Walker House Lawn & Wedding Packages: May 1 – September 30.
How far in advance can I book?
Bookings are accepted up to one year in advance.
How much notice is required to make a booking?
A minimum of 30 days' notice is required to secure your date.
Is there a minimum booking time?
Yes, bookings require a minimum of 2 hours.
How are bookings processed?
Bookings are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, a permit is required for private use of any space. Please have it with you on the day of your event.
Can I access the venue early for setup?
No early access is permitted. Set-up, take-down, and your event must occur within your booked time.
Booking payment terms
What are the Walker House & Wedding Packages?
- Payment due: Within 45 days of booking confirmation.
- If the event is less than 45 days away, payment is due immediately.
- Cancellations:
- Up to 45 days after booking confirmation: $150 refund available.
- After 45 days: No refund.
- Cancellations must be in writing to: parksvenues@calgary.ca.
Chinese Canadian Market Garden room & birthday party packages
- Payment is due within 14 days of booking confirmation.
- If the event is less than 14 days away, payment is due immediately.
- Cancellations:
- More than 14 days’ notice: Refund minus $50 cancellation fee.
- Less than 14 days’ notice: No refund.
- Cancellations must be in writing to parksvenues@calgary.ca.
Washroom, parking, and access
Are washrooms available?
Yes, during Nature Centre hours and your booked time.
Where can I park?
- Public parking is available at the Nature Centre.
- Accessible drop-off parking is available for Walker House Lawn, please let staff know in advance.
Catering information
Where is catering allowed?
Only in the Nature Centre and is not allowed at Walker House Lawn.
Can I choose my own caterer?
Yes, but they must comply with Alberta Food Regulation.
Are there kitchen amenities available?
- Birthday Party Packages: Sink and counter.
- Market Garden Room: Sink, fridge, freezer, counter space, and rolling carts.
What are caterers responsible for?
- Delivery, setup, cleanup, and removal of all food and waste within your booking time.
- No open flame or cooking on site.
What specifications does our catering company need to follow?
- Uses recyclable or compostable materials.
- Reduces single-use items.
- No open flames.
- Cleans up responsibly.
Liquor service & insurance
Is alcohol allowed?
- Only within the Nature Centre and must be:
- Pre-approved by the City.
- Licensed with liquor license.
- Covered by special event insurance.
What are the insurance requirements?
- $2 million general liability.
- The City of Calgary must be listed as additional insured.
- Proof submitted at least two weeks before the event.
What are the fire and safety guidelines?
- Candles, open flames, pyrotechnics, smoke/dry ice machines, and confetti are not allowed.
- Room capacity limits are enforced.
- Smudging requires 4 weeks' notice and pre-approval.
Decorations and rentals
Are tables and chairs included?
- Yes, for indoor spaces and birthday parties.
- Outdoor furniture for Walker Lawn is available to rent.
Can I bring decorations?
- Yes, but must be pre-approved one month before the event.
- Prohibited items: generators, lanterns, balloons, confetti (including flower petals, bird seed, rice), and anything with open flames.
Can I deliver items before or after my booking time?
No, all deliveries and pickups must occur within your booked time.
Use of space
Is music allowed?
Yes, but volume must follow local noise bylaws.
Who is responsible for damages or cleanup?
- The permit holder is responsible for:
- All damages.
- Excessive waste ($75+ cleanup fee)
- Ensuring all attendees follow site rules.
What are the site safety rules?
- No dogs or bicycles. (service animals permitted)
- Wear appropriate footwear.
- Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
- Follow all posted signs and safety instructions.
Photography permits
Do I need a permit for professional photography?
- Yes, a photo permit is required and:
- Limited to 3 hours for public photography.
- Self-serve only, no staff assistance.
What are the photography payment terms
- Full payment is due 14 days after confirmation.
- If booked less than 14 days out, payment is due immediately.
- Public permits: May be rescheduled with 14 days notice.
- No refunds for any photography permits.