What Is a Stretch Tent and When Should You Hire One?

A stretch tent is a free-form fabric canopy stretched over a set of poles, giving a relaxed, modern cover that moulds to almost any space, including sloping or irregular ground.

How a stretch tent differs from a marquee

A traditional marquee is a fixed-shape structure with straight walls and a peaked roof, which suits a formal, walled-in reception. A stretch tent has no rigid frame: the fabric is tensioned over poles of varying heights, so it flows around trees, over a patio, or down a slope where a square marquee would not fit.

The open, flowing look is popular for relaxed weddings, garden parties, and festival-style events. It can be left open on all sides for an airy summer feel, or partly dropped to the ground for shade and shelter.

When a stretch tent is the right call

Choose a stretch tent when your venue has interesting features to work around, when you want a contemporary look, or when the ground is not perfectly flat. Choose a marquee when you want straight, lined walls for a formal sit-down dinner. Either way, our team rigs the structure for you, as we put up all tents ourselves for safety.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. The fabric is tensioned to shed water, and the sides can be dropped lower for shelter. As with any tent, we set it up to suit your site and the forecast.

Yes. For safety reasons all tents, including stretch tents, are rigged exclusively by Party Time staff.

Ready to plan your event?

Build a quote online or get in touch and we will help you put it together.