We welcome a range of events that align with El Puente’s mission of promoting justice, equity, and community empowerment. Permitted uses include:

• Rehearsals (theatrical, dance, etc.)

• Public performances or presentations

• Visual art exhibitions

• Community meetings or organizing sessions

• Classes and educational workshops

• Cultural celebrations or artistic convenings

We do not host events that conflict with our values, such as those promoting hate, exclusion, or for-profit ventures not aligned with our community mission. All rental requests are subject to an internal review process to ensure alignment.

Our spaces are open to:

• Members of El Puente’s CADRE Network (Community Artists’ Development & Resource Exchange)

• Local nonprofits, grassroots organizations, coalitions, or community-based groups.

• Independent artists, educators, and cultural workers.

If you're unsure whether your organization or event qualifies, we encourage you to reach out—we’re happy to talk through it with you.

In some cases, yes. Depending on the nature, size, and risk of your event, you may be required to obtain a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If required, the COI must name El Puente de Williamsburg, Inc. and its employees as Additional Insured for the duration of your rental. This is a common practice for events with large attendance, performances, or physical activity.

We’ll let you know during the review process whether insurance is necessary and can provide guidance on how to obtain a certificate if needed.

Yes—with limitations. You are welcome to bring in necessary equipment (e.g., projectors, audio systems, instruments, display materials), but we ask that all equipment be minimal and appropriate to the space. High-energy consumption equipment (e.g., stage lighting, sound systems) may incur additional utility charges.

Decorations are allowed, but no posters, artwork, or displays belonging to El Puente may be removed or altered. Any decorations must be temporary and leave no damage. You must return the space to its original condition when your event concludes.

No. For security reasons, El Puente does not provide keys or unsupervised access to the building. An El Puente Administrator on Duty will be assigned to open and close the facility and support basic needs during your rental. This staffing cost is already included in your rental fee.

Access to the space will only be available during your scheduled rental window. Please include any setup or breakdown time in your booking.

No. Renters must remove all belongings, materials, and equipment at the end of their rental period. El Puente does not offer storage for outside items before or after your event. Please plan accordingly to avoid incurring fees or losing property.

All renters and guests must follow these key rules:

• No smoking is allowed anywhere in or directly outside of El Puente facilities.

• Shoes must be removed before entering the 3rd-floor and Bushwick dance studios.

• Renters are expected to reset the space after use—returning furniture, cleaning up, and restoring the original setup.

• Renters may not remove or alter any El Puente materials or decor without permission.

• All events must be conducted respectfully and safely. Any damage or violations may result in rental suspension or loss of access.

These rules are in place to ensure a respectful, shared space that honors El Puente’s mission and long-standing community presence.

Yes, food and non-alcoholic beverages may be served with prior approval. We encourage you to notify us in advance if you plan to have catering, refreshments, or food prep on-site, so we can ensure the space and staffing is appropriate.

If your event includes food, you are responsible for cleanup and ensuring that all trash is disposed of properly. Alcohol is not permitted without explicit written approval and additional insurance, in compliance with NY State laws.