About Garden Grove Elks Lodge No. 1952
Garden Grove Elks Lodge #1952 is a large community hall operated by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. It’s a multi-use banquet and event venue (indoor and outdoor) in suburban Orange County, noted locally as a friendly gathering spot. Opened in the mid-1950s, the lodge has been active since 1957 (elks1952.org ). It hosts charitable and social programs, promoting Elks values of charity and patriotism. The main indoor ballroom (known as the Lodge Room) is a spacious hall with a stage and dance floor, seating up to 300 people for dinner or 450 attendees in a general assembly setup (elks1952.org ). The facility comes equipped with a full sound system (amplified speakers and microphones) and a large drop-down projection screen for presentations (elks1952.org ). In addition to the main hall, the lodge complex includes smaller meeting rooms (Club Room and East Room) and an outdoor park area. Each event space has its own bar service and catering kitchen, and the lodge is air-conditioned and wheelchair-accessible (with ramps and ADA-compliant restrooms) (www.waze.com ). Located at 11551 Trask Avenue (corner of Trask and Newhope) in Garden Grove, the lodge is just a few minutes’ drive from Disneyland and the Garden Grove Park, making it a convenient venue for visitors and locals alike (elks1952.org ). The venue’s long-standing community role—and features like a dance stage, full bar, and event lighting—give it a unique character: visitors often note the lodge’s warm, friendly atmosphere and vintage social-club charm (local.yahoo.com ) (local.yahoo.com ).
Events and Programming
The lodge hosts a wide variety of events year-round, mixing both Elks-member activities and public entertainment. Regular weekly events include Taco Night on Mondays, public Bingo on Tuesdays, a family-style dinner with karaoke on Wednesdays, members’ meetings on Thursdays, and Friday night dinner-and-dance evenings (www.elks.org ) (elks1952.org ). Bingo is a major community draw – every Tuesday night the lodge opens to the public at 3:30 p.m. with games beginning at 6:00 p.m. (open seating, $30 buy-in for regular games) (elks1952.org ). The Emblem Club and lodge volunteers run snack bars and periodic $5 dinners on Bingo nights, supporting Elks charity programs (elks1952.org ). Special theme dances, holiday banquets, and fundraisers (for veterans and youth) fill out the schedule, including a longstanding Labor Day “Family Fun Festival” (free entry with pancake breakfast, BBQ and prize raffles) each September (ggcity.org ) (ggcity.org ).
Beyond Elks club activities, Garden Grove Elks Lodge is an active community venue. In recent years it has hosted numerous public performances and concerts. National and regional acts have appeared in the hall – for example, a festive Latin music show featuring Dueto Los Armadillos and La Sentencia De Tuzantla drew crowds in late 2024 (www.songkick.com ). In summer 2025 the lodge featured “The Killer Dueling Pianos,” an interactive two-piano concert (with an appetizer buffet and cocktail hour) (allevents.in ). Other events have included club-sponsored band nights, family dances, and charitable drives. Ticket prices vary by event: for bingo it’s a fixed game fee, while concert-type shows generally range from around $20 up to $50 depending on the act and included meals. Many events (like Bingo and family festivals) are open to all, while some music nights may sell out in advance. Upcoming shows are announced via the lodge’s newsletter and local event calendars (the City of Garden Grove often lists lodge events on its website (ggcity.org ) (ggcity.org )).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for public shows at the lodge are generally sold through the lodge’s event organizers or box office. Often the lodge’s own website or social media bulletin will advise how to reserve seats, or you can call the lodge office during weekdays for details. For popular events, tickets commonly go on sale several weeks in advance and may also be available in person at the lodge. Some shows allow door sales if not sold out; for example, smaller concerts or bingo nights simply charge admission at the door. Ticket prices depend on the event (bingo games have a set buy-in, while concerts typically range in the low tens of dollars). To avoid missing out, watch for announcements for presale dates or subscribe to the lodge’s mailing list. On event day the box office usually opens about 30–60 minutes before showtime, so arriving early can help ensure good seating and parking availability.
Seating and Layout
The main Lodge Room is a large, open rectangular hall. It features a raised stage at one end (suitable for bands, DJs or speakers) with a dance floor directly in front. Seating is flexible – for dances or concerts, chairs are typically arranged facing the stage, or round tables (seating 8–10) can be set up for banquet dinners (elks1952.org ). There are no fixed stadium seats; audience members generally sit at tables or in movable chairs. The best views are near the center, a few rows back from the stage; front-row seats give an up-close view of the performers, while the rear of the hall provides a broader vantage but may be slightly further from the sound. The hall has sound reinforcement (an auditorium PA) (elks1952.org ), so even those farther back can hear clearly. Acoustically it’s a typical high-ceilinged ballroom, so the front seats tend to be the loudest; if you are very sensitive to volume, earplugs can be helpful. The walls are mostly open, so there are no pillars to block sightlines – however, speakers or equipment may be placed near the stage edges.
For smaller events, the lodge’s Club Room (with an adjacent East Room) offers a cozier setting seating up to ~225 total (elks1952.org ). Both rooms have their own small stage and bar, suitable for meetings or small parties. Outdoors, the Elks’ adjacent park has a gazebo stage and dance area for al fresco events (elks1952.org ) – note that for outdoor shows you’ll want to sit or stand near the band gazebo so the sound quality is best. In general, there are no special VIP sections at the Garden Grove Elks Lodge, so seating is first-come-first-served unless reserved tables are arranged for a private event. Wheelchair spaces are typically arranged at one side of the hall or at table areas (the venue is wheelchair-accessible) (www.waze.com ). If you prefer an elevated vantage, a few high-top tables by the back wall allow a clear overhead view of the floor.
Getting There and Parking
The lodge’s address is 11551 Trask Ave, Garden Grove, CA. It sits just west of the Garden Grove Park area, a short drive from the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland Resort (Trask Ave is one block south of Katella, which leads directly to Disneyland). By highway, take CA-22 (Garden Grove Fwy) to the Euclid Avenue exit, then go south to Trask. If coming from I-5 or I-405, use I-5 to the Katella exit and head east, or the I-405 to CA-22 via Beach Blvd. Rideshare drop-off is convenient at the lodge’s front entrance on Trask Ave; just note that Trask is a moderately busy street, so follow any posted signage for passenger loading.
Free parking is available on-site in a large lot adjacent to the lodge (the lot is clean and well-lit, and reviewers note it has plenty of spaces (local.yahoo.com )). On busy nights it can fill up, so arriving early (at least 30 minutes prior) is wise. If the main lot is full, limited street parking is available on nearby side streets, or overflow parking might be arranged in the adjoining Elks Park area. In addition to regular vehicles, the lodge operates a one-acre RV park on the grounds with 17 full-hookup sites (electricity, water, 50A service, plus free Wi-Fi) (www.elks.org ). RV guests have access to restrooms, showers and laundry on-site. Reservations for RV spots can be made by contacting the lodge’s RV host in advance (this is a popular amenity for long-term visitors).
Public transportation options include Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) buses. Routes that run along Trask Avenue (such as lines 43, 56 or 60) will get you close to Newhope Street, just steps from the lodge. The nearest bus stops are at the Trask & Newhope intersection. (Note that service frequency tapers in the evenings, so check OCTA schedules if you plan to take the bus.) There is no direct rail stop at the lodge, but the Anaheim Amtrak/Metrolink station is about 4 miles away (a 10–15 minute drive). For those staying in the Anaheim/Garden Grove resort area, many surrounding hotels and the city’s shuttle buses also make this area convenient to reach.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests usually enter through the main lobby on Trask Avenue. The lodge is a private club, so outside events are often ticketed and staff will check your name or ticket at the door – at public nights one bellman will admissions. Inside you’ll find a classic lodge atmosphere: polished wood floors, club banners on the walls, and a friendly crowd of locals. There is a full-service bar available during events; in fact, patrons frequently praise the bartending staff. One local review specifically named “Rafa” as the bartender, noting he helped make great cocktails and created a welcoming vibe (local.yahoo.com ). The bar menu offers a selection of beers, wines and mixed drinks (for example, a Yelp reviewer mentioned enjoying a well-made Negroni at the Elks (local.yahoo.com )). If you plan to drink, remember the California 21+ rule – valid ID is required for alcohol, and the bar may not serve underage guests even if accompanied.
Food-wise, the lodge provides full meal service on many nights. A lunch menu is served Monday through Friday (except Tuesdays) from about 11:00am–1:30pm (www.elks.org ). On Wednesday and Friday evenings there are hot dinners (family-style on Wednesday; steak or special entrees on Friday) followed by dancing or karaoke. Taco Night on Mondays and burgers/hot dogs on Saturdays are popular affordable specials (www.elks.org ). During Bingo nights, a dinner and snack shack are run by club volunteers (for example, a $5 dinner is offered on the last Tuesday of each month) (elks1952.org ). Outside food and drink are generally not permitted indoors, except for service animals or personal medical needs.
The lodge lounge area also features pool tables and dartboards (reachable through a small game room adjacent to the bar). These are open during social hours and some reviewers note them as a fun perk for members and guests (local.yahoo.com ). Restrooms are located on the main hallway (along with an ADA-accessible bathroom) – Waze listing confirms the venue is wheelchair-friendly (www.waze.com ). There is no formal coat check, so it’s best to carry only what you need (or hang coats at your table). Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the lodge (it’s provided for RV park guests and general visitors) (www.waze.com ) (www.elks.org ) – just ask staff for the network name if you need it.
Nearby Amenities
The area around Garden Grove Elks Lodge offers plenty of options for dining and lodging. Just a few blocks away on Trask Avenue and Harbor Boulevard you’ll find casual eateries and fast-casual restaurants: Mexican grills, burger joints, pizza places and delis. For example, it’s a short walk to spots like In-N-Out Burger, Del Taco, or local taquerias at nearby intersections, and just beyond (a 5-minute drive) is the Little Saigon neighborhood with many Vietnamese cafés and noodle shops. The Anaheim/Garden Grove Resort District (including Garden Grove Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard) is also close by, so family-friendly sit-down restaurants, sports bars and coffee shops are within 1–2 miles. If you prefer nicer chain restaurants, there are several at Harbor/Trask and at nearby hotel complexes.
Speaking of hotels, there are multiple lodging choices very close to the lodge. The Delta Hotels Anaheim/Garden Grove (formerly Crowne Plaza) is only a mile away, as are Residence Inn and Candlewood Suites on nearby Gilbert Street, among others. These and other hotels cater to visitors to Disneyland and often list the Elks Lodge as a nearby attraction. If you’re driving in for an evening event, consider staying at one of these hotels so you can walk or take a very short shuttle ride.
When planning your visit, it’s a good idea to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before show time for larger events. Early arrival gives you time to park, check in at the door, and choose a good seat. If attendees wish to dine beforehand or grab a drink after the show, there are bars and late-night diners in walking distance, but keep in mind most of the immediate neighborhood quiets down after 10pm. Rideshare or taxi service is readily available at night. The Elks parking lot closes around midnight, so late-night departures should be planned accordingly (the venue staff can often point the way to a safe departure route).
What Makes This Venue Special
Garden Grove Elks Lodge #1952 stands out because of its blend of community history and versatile facilities. Unlike a generic club hall, this lodge has farmland roots – it even hosted Strawberry Festival dinners decades ago – and over 65 years has become woven into the city’s traditions (chea-elks.org ). The venue’s architecture is a straightforward mid-century lodge style (with a peaked roof and large hall), but it’s the friendly “fraternal club” vibe that regulars love. Everywhere you look there are nods to local lore: two American flags, vintage Elks banners, awards and photos of past Exalted Rulers, and bulletin boards of scrapbook memories. Visitors often mention that the members are remarkably welcoming – one recent reviewer said staff were “really nice people, not like modern-day OC” (local.yahoo.com ). The bar food and special dinners also get praise (e.g., outstanding patty melts, hearty Mexican plates on Taco Monday, or the popular pancake breakfasts during festivals).
Over the years the lodge has hosted memorable events: from charity casino nights to live band concerts. It’s one of the few places in Garden Grove where a Latin music duo or a nostalgia act will play a sold-out show in an intimate setting. Even the lodge’s philanthropy adds character – funds from Bingo and banquet rentals go back into veterans assistance and youth programs, reflecting the Elks motto “Elks Care, Elks Share.” In short, performers and patrons alike appreciate the Elks Lodge as a comfortable, hometown venue: the stage is low, the audience close, and every performer gets to feel like part of the community. This community-centric atmosphere – combined with the hall’s audio-visual gear and convenient location – is what makes Garden Grove Elks Lodge #1952 a unique and beloved venue in the area.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The lodge is wheelchair-accessible. There are entry ramps and an ADA-compliant restroom inside (www.waze.com ). Accessible parking spots are marked in the lot, and the main floor has level access to the bar, dance floor, and stage. Hearing assistance devices may not be provided, so patrons with hearing needs may consider bringing personal amplification.
What to bring: For concerts or events, bring valid ID (if you plan to drink), and a printed or mobile ticket if you have one. A small bag or purse is fine, but large backpacks or coolers are not permitted. Since it’s a community club, expect friendly staff who may check your name at the door. If you have specific needs (like medication or baby items), staff are usually helpful.
Weather & dress: Most events are indoors in a climate-controlled hall. Wear casual, comfortable clothing (jeans and a nice shirt are common). On rare occasions of outdoor events (in the Elks Park gazebo), table umbrellas provide shade, but summers in Orange County can be warm – a T-shirt and layers is good. No formal attire is needed.
Dining & refreshments: The lodge’s bar and kitchen serve food at most weekly events (tacos, burgers, dinners) (www.elks.org ). Outside of those, it’s wise to eat elsewhere or bring a snack, especially on weekday afternoons when no lunch is served. After big concerts, some attendees grab a late-night bite at nearby 24-hour eateries. For kids: family events like Bingo and Sunday breakfasts are child-friendly; just note the bar area and restaurant environment is otherwise 21+.
Common pitfalls: Don’t expect highly polished theater seating or aisles – this is a lay-flat wooden-floor hall, so sometimes you’ll be moving chairs. Also, because the lodge is an active club, some nights (like gala events) require formal tickets or member introductions. Always check whether an event is open to the public before showing up. Cell-phone etiquette is standard: phones on silent during performances, applauding between sets.
Contact & updates: The lodge office is typically open Monday–Friday daytimes for questions (for events, call during regular hours). Many visiting performers suggest joining the lodge’s email list or following its social media for announcements. The City of Garden Grove’s official event calendar is also a good resource for big public events at the lodge (ggcity.org ) (ggcity.org ).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets for events at Garden Grove Elks Lodge #1952? Ticket information is usually posted on the lodge’s official website or event flyers. For many concerts and special nights, tickets can be reserved directly through the lodge’s event office (call during weekday hours) or via affiliated promoters. Bingo and most club dinners do not require pre-purchased tickets; you pay the buy-in at the door (for example, Bingo has a $30 card purchase (elks1952.org )). For large shows, get tickets early by contacting the lodge or a listed box office. In many cases popular shows sell out, so watch for pre-sale announcements and plan to arrive early on the event date if you hope to buy tickets at the door.
Is there an on-site box office or are tickets sold at the door? The lodge typically does not have a permanent box office counter outside of event times. Ticket sales for major events (concerts, fundraisers) are usually handled either online or through the lodge’s administrative office ahead of time. However, many events do offer walk-up sales at the door if seats remain. For example, weekly Tuesday Bingo does not have advance tickets – you simply buy in when you arrive by 6pm (elks1952.org ). For pre-selling events, doors often open about 30–60 minutes before showtime to handle last-minute ticket pickup and seating.
What is the address of the lodge and how do I get there? The lodge’s address is 11551 Trask Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92843. It’s at the corner of Trask and Newhope, near Garden Grove Park. If you’re coming by car, the easiest route is via CA-22 freeway (Garden Grove Fwy) – take the Euclid Avenue exit and head south one block to Trask. You can also access it from Harbor Blvd; Trask Ave is just south of Disneyland. The front entrance faces Trask Ave. GPS and map apps use this address. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs can use the Trask entrance as well.
Is there parking available, and is it free? Yes, the lodge provides free on-site parking for event attendees. The parking lot adjacent to the building is large and flat (one reviewer noted it’s “really big and clean” (local.yahoo.com )), so even during busy nights there is usually room if you arrive early. For concerts or major events, get there at least 30 minutes before start to secure a spot. RV parking is also available in a separate 17-site park on the property (full hookups, see below). If the main lot fills up, street parking is available on some nearby side roads, but be mindful of local posted signage.
What public transportation options serve the lodge? Several city buses run along Trask Avenue near the lodge. Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) routes such as the 43, 56, and 60 have stops within a short walk of the lodge (Trask & Newhope). The nearest stop is on Trask one block east of the entrance. Note that frequency drops off in evening/weekend hours. The Anaheim Resort transit shuttles also run in this area. There is no direct train (the closest Metrolink/Amtrak station is in Anaheim, a 15-minute drive). In practice, most visitors arrive by car or rideshare; however, using the bus is feasible if you check the latest OCTA schedule for these lines.
What is the seating capacity and layout of the main hall? The main Lodge Room is a large ballroom with a stage and dance floor along one end. Its capacity is about 300 seated banquet-style or roughly 450 standing/assembly-style (elks1952.org ). There are no fixed seats – the room is typically set up with either rows of chairs facing the stage (for concerts/speakers) or round tables for banquets. Because seating is flexible, arriving early secures the best view. The stage is raised and centered, so any seat on the floor should have a clear line of sight. The back rows or corners are farther from the stage, so if you want the closest view and sound, aim for front-center seats. The adjacent Club Room and East Room (on the side) are smaller breakout areas (total ~225 capacity), each with its own small stage and bar for mid-size events (elks1952.org ).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Yes, the lodge is wheelchair accessible. There is a ramp to the main entrance from the parking lot and the main event hall is all on one level. doorways and aisles are wide enough for wheelchairs, and an ADA-compliant restroom is available inside (www.waze.com ). Staff can help guide wheelchair users to appropriate seating at the side or front of the hall. If you have special mobility needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead so they can ensure any assistance is ready.
Are food and beverages available on site? Yes. The lodge has a full kitchen and bar. A lunch menu is served Monday–Friday (hours roughly 11am–1:30pm) (www.elks.org ). On event evenings (e.g. Wednesday family night, Friday dance night) hot dinners are available for purchase. For example, families can enjoy fish dinners or steak entrees on Wednesday, and burgers or barbecue platters on Fridays and Saturdays (www.elks.org ). Taco Night on Monday is especially popular. A salad/snack bar and desserts are usually offered on Bingo nights (e.g. a $5 dinner is served on the last Tuesday each month) (elks1952.org ). The bar serves beer, wine and mixed drinks throughout the day and during all event nights; one past visitor review praised the lodge’s creative cocktails and friendly bartenders (local.yahoo.com ) (local.yahoo.com ). Credit cards are usually accepted at the bar, but it’s wise to carry some cash for game cards or raffle tickets at charity events.
Are there restrooms and other guest amenities? Yes. Clean restrooms are available off the main hallway (there’s one handicapped-accessible bathroom as well). Inside the lodge lounge you’ll also find commercial coffee machines and drink fountains. There is no formal coat check, so bring only what you need or hang your coat at your table. The lounge area has pool tables and dart boards for member use – visitors often enjoy playing a game between sets (local.yahoo.com ). Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the venue (the RV park listing confirms free Wi-Fi on site (www.elks.org )). In short, the basic amenities (toilets, a coat area, food/drink service, seating) are all in place for guests; there is also air conditioning, making it comfortable in summer or winter (www.waze.com ).
Are children allowed at events, and is there an age restriction? Children are welcome at family-oriented events like Bingo and Sunday breakfasts. These events are open to all ages (with kids often enjoying the games and prizes). For other events, the lodge is not a strict age-restricted venue, but minors must be supervised by adults. Since the lodge has a full bar, anyone under 21 cannot be served alcohol and must have parental supervision in the dining area. There is no formal dress or behavior code for children beyond normal courtesy. If bringing kids to a music concert or late-night dance, use your best judgment – some shows may feature loud music or adult themes, while others (like pop bands) can be kid-friendly.
Is there a dress code? The dress code at the Elks Lodge is generally casual or business casual. Guests typically wear jeans or slacks and a polo or casual shirt; for special dinners or banquets some people dress a bit nicer (e.g. a collared shirt or a casual dress), but there is no formal requirements. Concerts and dances likewise have no special attire; many attendees come in comfortable clothes and even dancing shoes. The lodge atmosphere is relaxed – think of it like a local bar or family restaurant. The only restriction is that shoes and shirts are always required by law, and during frosty weather it can be a bit cool inside, so you might bring a light sweater.
Can the public attend Bingo night, and what are the details? Yes, Bingo night is open to the public. Every Tuesday the lodge opens for Bingo (no membership needed) (elks1952.org ). Doors usually open around 3:30pm and the first games begin at 6:00pm (elks1952.org ). To play, you buy a bingo packet (a “buy-in” is about $30 for the regular games, plus pull-tabs are available at extra cost). The games pay out cash prizes (for example, regular paper games pay $250 each) (elks1952.org ). There is also a snack bar and a $5 dinner (on the last Tuesday of each month) for players (elks1952.org ). As an evening of social bingo, it’s quite lively and family-friendly; newcomers often find the attendees welcoming. Even if you’re a beginner, volunteers on hand can help explain the rules.
Can I rent the lodge for a private event or wedding? Yes. The Garden Grove Elks Lodge makes its facilities available for private banquets, weddings, corporate events, and parties. The hall boasts a large ballroom (the Lodge Room) as well as smaller meeting rooms and an outdoor park (elks1952.org ). Each rented space comes with bar access and full kitchen catering options. To book, you should contact the lodge’s event or catering office (the Banquet Rentals page indicates business hours and a point of contact) (elks1952.org ). Because the lodge is a nonprofit fraternal organization, pricing is often quite reasonable compared to commercial banquet halls. However, spaces fill up fast for weekends, so inquire several months in advance for best availability.
What is “Elks Park” on the property? “Elks Park” is the outdoor event area adjacent to the lodge building. It’s a spacious one-acre yard with mature shade trees, picnic tables, a playground, basketball courts and even horseshoe pits (elks1952.org ). The park features a covered gazebo stage and a full-service Tiki bar for outdoor functions (a DJ or band can play under the gazebo) (elks1952.org ). This park area is often used for daytime festivals, family weddings and summer picnics. Guests at lodge events may sometimes spill onto the grassy area if the hall is very full. Note that Elks Park events (like outdoor dances) may be subject to weather – check ahead if rain is forecast. Otherwise, the park setting offers a picturesque alternative to the indoor hall.
Does the lodge have RV parking or camping facilities? Yes, the Garden Grove Elks offer an on-site RV park called “Elk Home Sweet Home.” It has 17 full-service RV hookups (50-amp electric, water and Wi-Fi) and is open to traveling members and guests (www.elks.org ). The park includes an RV-friendly restroom and shower building, plus laundry facilities and a dump station. Reservations can be made by calling the lodge (ask about the Elks RV host). It’s a unique amenity in Orange County – travelers often “roll” in and stay at the lodge for a night or weekend. Note that RV guests must abide by park rules and usually attach a camping fee.
How can I find information on upcoming events at the lodge? The best way is to check the lodge’s official website calendar or social pages, which list events and announcements. In addition, the City of Garden Grove’s event calendar frequently highlights Elks events (for example, their site listed the June 2025 “Dinner and Dancing Under the Stars” and August 2025 “Killer Dueling Pianos” shows (ggcity.org ) (ggcity.org )). Community newspapers and local radio sometimes mention the lodge’s big fundraisers (e.g. the annual Labor Day festival) as well. You can also sign up for the lodge’s email newsletter or call the lodge office directly to be added to their mailing list for the latest schedule.
What time do events usually start, and when do I need to arrive? Start times vary by event. As a general rule, doors open about 30–45 minutes before show time. For example, Bingo doors open at 3:30pm and the first game begins at 6:00pm (elks1952.org ). A concert listed for 6pm might start seating at 5pm (see the August 2025 dueling piano event where the program began at 6pm and doors opened at 5pm (allevents.in )). In practice, arriving 30 minutes early is wise for parking and good seating. If it’s a daytime event or matinee, check that specific schedule (the weekly lunch and family programs typically start at their stated times). Latecomers are generally seated when there’s an intermission. Always double-check your ticket or event notice for exact times.
