Tent and Marquee Hire Guide for Zimbabwe Events

The two main types used for events in Zimbabwe are peg-and-pole tents and frame marquees.

Peg-and-pole tents are the traditional style — supported by centre poles and tensioned with pegs into the ground. They are more affordable and come in very large sizes, making them popular for church events, funerals and large community gatherings. The downside is the centre poles, which can obstruct sightlines and limit where you place tables.

Frame marquees use an aluminium frame instead of centre poles, giving you a completely clear interior. They look more modern and elegant, and allow full flexibility in your layout. They cost more but are the standard choice for weddings and corporate events where appearance matters. For pricing on both types, see our event hire cost guide.

Tent size depends on your guest count, seating layout, and what else goes inside (buffet, dance floor, stage, bar).

A rough guide for seated guests at round tables:
— 50 guests: 8m x 12m minimum
— 100 guests: 10m x 15m minimum
— 150 guests: 12m x 18m minimum
— 200 guests: 15m x 20m minimum
— 300+ guests: 15m x 30m or multiple linked tents

These are starting points. If you need a dance floor, stage or large buffet area, add 20–30 per cent more space. Our table and chair hire guide can help you work out seating layouts once you know the tent size.

Before you book a tent, check the ground at your venue. Peg-and-pole tents need soft ground (grass or soil) to drive pegs into. Frame marquees are more flexible — they can go on grass, paving or concrete, sometimes with weights instead of pegs.

The ground should be level. A sloped site may need a raised floor or platform, which adds cost. Check for overhead obstructions like trees and power lines. Make sure there is vehicle access for the delivery truck.

If the ground is uneven or muddy, consider hiring a floor — either a solid raised floor or interlocking tiles — to give guests a stable, clean surface.

A tent on its own is a shell. To make it event-ready, you will typically need:

— Flooring or carpet
— Lighting (functional and decorative) — see our event lighting guide
— Ceiling draping or lining — see our draping and backdrop guide
— Side walls or curtains (for weather protection and aesthetics)
— A generator if the venue has no power
— Tables, chairs and linen
— Catering equipment if the caterer does not supply their own

Hiring all of this from one supplier simplifies logistics and often reduces delivery costs. Browse our full catalogue to build your list.

Zimbabwe's dry season (May to October) is ideal for tented events — minimal rain, mild temperatures and clear skies. If you are hosting during the rainy season (November to March), make sure the tent has waterproof side walls and proper drainage. Frame marquees handle wind better than peg-and-pole tents.

Even in the dry season, evenings can be cool (especially in June and July). Consider whether you need sides on the tent and whether heaters would be appropriate. For a full breakdown of outdoor event logistics, see our outdoor event planning guide.