How to Have Your Wedding in Central Park

December 14, 2021

Considering a wedding in Central Park? Here's how to do it!

A wedding is an event that most people dream of years before it happens. True for you?

It's the day we get to stand in front of our friends and family, say our vows, and promise to stick together through good times and bad - until death do us part.

Though you're likely already aware of all the details associated with a wedding - from the cake to the invitations, and even what dress you'll wear down the aisle, there's another aspect that many people forget about - the location!

New York City's iconic Central Park is a wonderful place to get married any time of the year (well, winter is not ideal, but it can be done!). There are many different locations in the park to have a ceremony and great options for hotels and restaurants nearby.

Read on for some tips about what you can expect if you decide to have your wedding in Central Park!

To Get Married in Central Park (or anywhere in New York State), You'll Need:

*A license issued by the State of New York (can be NYC or another clerk's office)

Get a New York marriage license. For the most up-to-date information on obtaining a marriage license in NYC, see this page.

For more information on Getting Married in New York State visit this page.

*An event permit.

This depends on the size of your wedding and location. Many locations don't require a permit (or can't be permitted). If you have more than 20 guests or want to reserve a specific location, it is highly recommended that you get a permit. Permits are $25 and can be bought via the park's website with 30 days' notice.

For more information on locations and fees, see here: Weddings in Central Park

To apply for an event permit for a Central Park Wedding, click here.

Several locations in the park are ideal for your wedding ceremony, but you will need to get a permit to ensure your time doesn’t overlap with another event.

● Cop Cot (Gazebo)

● Ladies Pavilion (Gazebo)

● Wagner Cove (Gazebo)

● Shakespeare Garden

Newlyweds holding hands at wedding ceremony

Some other great locations in Central Park include:

● Cherry Hill

● Great Hill

● Harlem Meer

● Bethesda Terrace / Bethesda Fountain

● Gapstow Bridge

● Belvedere Plaza / Castle

If you want a bit more privacy, you can hold your ceremony at The Conservatory Garden near Fifth Avenue. The fee is $400 (add $100 if you’re planning a photo session). You can get more information at their website.

*A New York City-registered marriage officiant

The officiant needs to be licensed by the Office of City Clerk of the City of New York. Asking a candidate to see his/her license is a reasonable and legitimate question. A friend or family member MAY NOT officiate just because it would be nice. They would have to be a licensed officiant. A qualified officiant from another jurisdiction may apply to the NYC City Clerk to obtain a NYC license.

*At least one witness

NYC weddings must be witnessed by one person other than yourselves and the officiant. A friend, a family member, or even your photographer can be the witness. They should be prepared to present a government-issued ID to the officiant.

*A site for the reception and a photographer

If you're planning on having your reception in Central Park, there are several restaurants nearby that offer catering. Most require at least a few weeks' notice to reserve space and set up menus for the event. If you'd like to host your reception, there are also several hotel options near Central Park.

In regards to taking photographs after the ceremony in the park, make sure you have a plan for where to take them. The best time of day to shoot is usually either early morning or late evening when the light is soft and the park is quiet.

Use this list to prepare so the day goes off without a hitch, and be sure to contact me if you need a registered New York City wedding officiant to preside over your Central Park wedding!

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