First, if you want to have an elopement ceremony or get married at Fish Creek Amphitheater, you need a special use permit. There is no way around it. Per the Glacier National Park website:
“Any and all vow exchanges, elopements, ceremonies, weddings, or special events, etc., require a Special Use Permit. This is regardless of the size of the group, whether or not it is “officiated,” or if papers are being signed. If you are entering the park with a photographer only to take photographs and no vow exchange, signing of documents, or union is being witnessed, then no permit is required.”
Source: NPS.gov
Luckily, the permits are not difficult or that expensive to obtain. This blog walks you through what you need to know and how to apply, as well as a real wedding ceremony at Fish Creek Amphitheater.
How to apply for a special use permit to get married at Fish Creek Amphitheater
Download and complete the park’s special use permit application here
Be very specific in your application regarding times, attendees, vehicle counts, locations and what you plan to bring into the park
Email application to glac_sup@nps.gov
Pay the $125 non-refundable fee
Wait for official confirmation via phone or email (be patient! They receive many applications and it takes time)
Print a copy of the approved permit and have it with you at all times while in the park. Make sure all your attending vendors have reviewed and understand the conditions.
TIPS FOR APPLYING: apply early, be patient and be kind. Show interest in minimizing your impact on the park and other guests. The park rangers are busy and overwhelmed with the increasing popularity of weddings and elopements on park land. Be proactive in your application by providing as much detail about your event as possible!
YOU’LL ALSO LIKE: Glacier National Park Guide to Special Use Permits
More Fish Creek Amphitheater Wedding Ceremony FAQs
What is the max guest count allowed?
200 people, although I recommend fewer. The park limits how many cars are allowed into the park for events, so make sure your carpool count adds up. Alternatively, you can arrange a shuttle bus.
What months can we get married at Fish Creek Amphitheater?
Late May to early September.
Is Fish Creek Amphitheater wheelchair accessible?
Yes.
Are pets, like my dogs, allowed?
Pets are not allowed at the amphitheater (I know, I’m bummed also).
Are we able to set up decor, like floral arches?
No. You can’t bring any additional furniture or decor to the area. This is to minimize the impact of your event on the park, other visitors and wildlife.
Are there restrooms at Fish Creek Amphitheater?
Yes, but they do close after park hours.
Are there other locations where we can have our ceremony within the park?
Yes. For a full list of approved wedding ceremony locations within Glacier National Park, please visit the park website here.
ALSO SEE: Avalanche Lake Amphitheater Elopement Ceremony Location
Alex & Andrew’s Intimate wedding day in Glacier National Park
Their wedding morning in Columbia Falls, Montana
We started Alex and Andrew’s wedding day at around 10:30 on August 5th, 2023. Early on, they emphasized to me that they wanted to be their weird and goofy selves, and let that shine on their wedding day. Their first date was them dressing up in the nicest clothes they own and getting margaritas at a Mexican restaurant. Just because. They’re the type of people to bring fun into everything they do, and wanted their wedding day to be no different!
They also wanted to balance a bit of alone time for themselves, with the focus of the day being the moment they get married at Fish Creek Amphitheater. So, we basically split the day into 4 parts, starting with getting ready at their Airbnb in Columbia Falls, Montana.
They started getting ready together, as I photographed details. Alex’s ring was especially stunning, and since she loves Dr. Pepper, one of her bridesmaids slipped me a can to include in her photos. When it was time to put on her dress, Andrew left the room so we could organize a first look. He chilled outside with the neighborhood cat as he waited for her. When she walked out, his reaction was priceless.
After the first look, they helped each other into some final details like cufflinks and a necklace. The cufflinks had their dog’s face on them, which was the perfect way to “include” her since dogs are not allowed at Fish Creek Amphitheater.
After that, we made our way to the park for the ceremony.
Alex and Andrew’s 25 person ceremony at Fish Creek Amphitheater
Fish Creek Amphitheater can hold up to 200 guests, although it’s most intimate with up to 30. Their 25 person guest count was perfect. Alex’s best friend officiated the ceremony, and he infused the entire ceremony with the goofy and fun vibes they wanted. . It truly reflected who they are as a couple. Remember, ceremonies don’t have to be serious events if that’s not who you are! Live it up, be yourself and keep it authentic to you.
After their ceremony, we went to Lake McDonald for family portraits. It was a perfect day despite a little lingering smoke from summer forest fires. After the family group photos were finished, the three of us hung back to explore more. We got some solo shots of them before heading to meet the family for their reception back in Columbia Falls.
Reception at Sacred Waters Brewery
They held their reception at the Sacred Waters Brewery. Here, they also signed their official marriage paperwork. Their family gave some speeches as well, with the highlight being Alex’s dad’s speech. Alex was a passionate softball player growing up, and it was the source of a lot of bonding time between her and her dad. He even bedazzled a pair of softball shoes to give her himself as a gift!
Sunset solo excursion up the Going to the Sun Road
After they spent a few hours eating and drinking with the group, it was time for our sunset excursion back in the park. We headed up the Going to the Sun Road toward one of my favorite lookouts. Just the 3 of us, we wandered around taking in the views. Alex and Andrew were fully themselves by this portion of the day, and we had a ton of fun goofing around and posing for funny shots. Between the hot pink fireweed and green pines, we watch the sun go down over Glacier National Park.
Our full day together ended at around 9:00pm, making this a full day of laughter split between family and solo fun.
Final thoughts about Fish Creek Amphitheater
Although there are many amphitheater's in Glacier National Park, I recommend you get married at Fish Creek amphitheater if you have a larger guest count. Because it's wheelchair accessible also, it's ideal for older or handicapped guests as well.
This blog was written, curated and researched by Mariah Arianna, copywriter for photographers and creatives.