One of the most common questions we’re asked at Midlands Marquee Hire is: “How long does it take to set up and take down a marquee?”
Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, birthday celebration or community gathering, understanding the timeline helps you organise suppliers, deliveries and venue access with confidence.
Here’s everything you need to know.
How Long Does Marquee Setup Take?
The time required depends on several factors, including the size of the marquee, location, ground conditions and any additional features such as flooring, lighting or furniture.
As a general guide:
✅ Small marquees (garden parties / small events): Often 2–4 hours
✅ Medium marquees (weddings / larger celebrations): Typically 4–6 hours
✅ Large or fully customised structures: May require a full day or more
For weddings and larger events, we usually install the marquee one to three days before the event. This allows time for decoration, catering setup and other suppliers to prepare without pressure.
What Affects Setup Time?
Several elements can influence how long installation takes:
Size and structure type – Larger marquees or more complex frame systems require additional time and crew members.
Flooring and subflooring – If the ground is uneven or soft, additional preparation may be required to create a stable base.
Internal features – Linings, lighting rigs, staging, dance floors, heating and furniture all add to setup time.
Access to the site – Limited vehicle access or longer carry distances can extend installation time.
Weather conditions – High winds or heavy rain may slow down safe installation.
At Midlands Marquee Hire, we assess all of these factors in advance so there are no surprises on the day.
When Should Setup Be Scheduled?
For private garden events, setup is often completed the day before. For larger weddings or corporate events, we recommend allowing at least one full day between installation and the event itself.
This gives you time to:
✅ Add décor and styling ✅ Coordinate caterers and bar services ✅ Arrange tables and seating ✅ Test lighting and sound systems
Planning ahead ensures a calm, organised build-up to your event.
How Long Does Teardown Take?
Dismantling is typically quicker than installation, as decoration and internal styling will already have been removed.
In most cases:
✅ Smaller marquees can be removed in 1–3 hours
✅ Medium structures often take 3–5 hours
✅ Larger installations may require most of a day
Teardown is usually completed the day after your event, though alternative arrangements can be discussed if required.
Do You Need to Be Present?
We don’t always require you to be present for setup or collection, provided we have:
✅ Clear access to the site ✅ Agreed layout plans ✅ Safe and unobstructed working space
For larger or more complex builds, it can be helpful to have a point of contact available.
Why Professional Setup Matters
Marquees are temporary structures, but they must be installed with precision and care. Proper anchoring, levelling and structural checks are essential for safety and stability.
At Midlands Marquee Hire, our experienced team ensures:
✅ Safe and secure installation ✅ Professional presentation ✅ Careful dismantling ✅ Respect for your property and venue
We handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your event.
Planning Your Event Timeline
If you’re organising a wedding, corporate function or private celebration, we recommend discussing your schedule with us early in the planning process. This allows us to advise on the best installation window and coordinate smoothly with other suppliers.
Every event is different, and we tailor our setup and teardown schedule to suit your specific requirements.
Need Advice for Your Event?
If you’re unsure how much time your marquee installation will require, Midlands Marquee Hire is happy to provide guidance based on your venue, guest numbers and event type.
Get in touch today to discuss your plans and secure your date with confidence.
<< Return to news