Event Venue
FOR ALL PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE
​The venue offers an inclusive, warm environment with a number of delicious drinks to enjoy as you celebrate your day, from non-alcoholic sodas, craft beers, and hard ciders, as well as a small range of wines. Reservations are booked by the hour and can include a semi-private or private use of the property during your party. You will be invited to choose your own caterer for the day, allowing you full personalization of the soirée.
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The Building
IN THE HEART OF TACOMA
Dystopian State venue is nestled inside a historical Tacoma building located on Saint Helens Avenue and South Baker Street. This 1928 Moorish-style building was designed by a Tacoma architect Silas E. Nelsen.
Elaborate detailing around windows on the first and second floors distinguish its style and proudly showcase city and Puget Sound water views. It served as an automobile dealership for many years.
The entrance ramp via door and the garage door allows for easy loading and unloading and is ADA accessible with no stairs. This area is also zoned for up to two food trucks to serve your guests.
“My husband and I got married here Jan 2024 and I have nothing but great things to say about the space, beer and staff … there is SO much flexibility in how you want to decorate the space. In addition, the staff are very kind and excellent in the communication process making everything smooth and easy… Highly recommend getting married here if you are looking for a chill, cozy and beer filled wedding!”
- Kelsey -
Frequently Asked Questions
Section A | Semiprivate
About 25 guests
Section B | Semiprivate
About 35 guests
Space C | Semiprivate
About 25 guests
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How do I know which section I am reserving?There are four sections in the taproom: Section A, Section B, Section C and Overflow. Sections are assigned by the event coordinator based on reserved activity in the taproom on any given day and based on party size. (Overflow section will ONLY be assigned upon mutual agreement of the guest/host and the taproom. This section is NOT typically used for event space but can be used under special circumstances) Requests for specific sections will be considered but not guaranteed. All sections have windows and great lighting, string lights in all areas at night. The smaller tables and chairs may move across the taproom with the main large pieces of furniture remaining in place.
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May we arrive early to set up?Time to setup and clean are Included in your reserved times and no early arrivals are permitted in respect of other events and to allow for cleaning between parties. If you or your vendors require to arrive earlier than reserved start time, reach out to event coordinator to purchase more time.
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Can I reschedule an event once booked?Reschedules may be accommodated at the availability the event calendar permits, they do not take precedence over already scheduled events. More than one reschedule in 3 months will result in loss of initial deposit and another deposit will be required.
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What are we responsible for during clean up as hosts?The clean up includes taking down decorations, packing away food, putting all the trash in trash cans and returning all furniture pieces (couches, tables, chairs, etc) to their original places. Our staff gathers glassware, wipes down tables, sweeps and washes the floor and takes the trash out.
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What’s an appropriate amount of gratuity expected for drink service?Gratuity for groups over 20 people, 20% gratuity on drinks is expected, encouraged, appreciated and goes to the hard working staff who are excited and committed to make your event a smooth and a memorable experience. We do not collect gratuity on event space fees.
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Are food trucks allowed?If arranging for a local food truck, the host must confirm that the food truck is operating on a quiet generator or be able and willing to plug in to the Dystopian provided 220 V outlet. This is required to assure a quiet environment for our residential neighbors. Also, per Tacoma Pierce County Health Department, food truck operator must sign a Sales Site Agreement with Dystopian prior to the event: https://cms.cityoftacoma.org/FoodTrucks/SalesSiteAgreement.pdf
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May we bring our own caterer?You are welcome to bring any food or any caterer you like, please reach out to the event coordinator if looking for recommendations. Please provide your own plates/cutlery and napkins.
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What is your taproom capacity?The taproom can comfortably and safely accommodate up to 250 people.
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How big is the taproom?Total square footage including the brewhaus is approximately 9,000 sq feet. From entrance ramp to back wall: approximately 35 feet. Wall on the left to the screen: approximately 55 feet.
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Are decorations allowed?Flower arrangements, banners, battery operated candles, balloons and lights are permitted. Sterno fuel cans may be used for chafing dishes and must be supervised at all times. Not permitted are balloons filled with glitter and confetti, glitter and confetti; sparklers, fireworks, or open flame candles. The historical building taproom is constructed from highly flammable, very dry and very old wooden beams.
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Are children allowed?Well behaved children are welcome. All children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.
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Are pets allowed?Pet dogs are allowed in the taproom per the Pierce County Department of Health. Please clean up after your pet. Pets are not allowed in the brewing area and behind the bar.
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Can we play our own music or bring a DJ?We offer an extensive music library which is licensed to play in a commercial establishment. The option to play your own music including a DJ/band is for taproom buyouts only. Garage door must close at the end of posted open hours to reduce noise in the neighborhood.
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Where are the electrical outlets?Due to the historical nature of the building, the electrical outlets are available in certain areas near section A. If electricity is needed in any other areas, extension cords may be brought in by host.
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Is furniture available and how many tables and chairs are there?Yes, the taproom is furnished and large tables remain in their assigned spots. If moved, those must be returned. Six round eight person tables Two long communal tables: one counter height and another bar height Six four-person square tables Chairs (all black/metal): 65 dinner table height chairs, 27 bar height stools with backs, 14 backless bar height stools, 40 foldable dinner table height chairs