About Cape Fox Lodge
Cape Fox Lodge is a Native-owned resort hotel perched on a forested hillside overlooking Ketchikan’s Tongass Narrows, operated by Cape Fox Corporation (the Alaska Native village corporation of nearby Saxman Village) (capefoxlodge.com ) (capefoxlodge.com ). Built by Tlingit shareholders in 1990 and renovated in 2019 (capefoxlodge.com ), the 2.5-star lodge offers some of the finest views in Ketchikan, combining rustic Alaskan architecture and rich cultural decor. The property features roughly 71 recently upgraded guest rooms (69 standard rooms and 2 suites) (capefoxlodge.com ), each with plush bedding and Pacific Northwest finishes. A totem-carved entry and on-site Tlingit art museum greet visitors, reflecting the lodge’s mission to showcase Native heritage (facesofketchikan.com ) (investor.wedbush.com ). Its elevated perch provides sweeping panoramas of Deer Mountain, historic Creek Street below, and the Tongass forest – views that draw many visitors seeking both comfort and a connection to Alaska’s first-city scenery (capefoxlodge.com ) (capefoxlodge.com ).
Because it is owned by a tribal corporation, Cape Fox Lodge holds unique local significance. It supports the Saxman Tlingit community by providing jobs and preserving art and traditions (capefoxlodge.com ). In fact, during Cape Fox Corporation’s 50th anniversary in 2023 the lodge installed a new commemorative totem pole at its entrance (investor.wedbush.com ). This blend of indigenous culture and hospitality – from the carved totems and clan imagery to a menu celebrating Alaskan ingredients – makes Cape Fox Lodge not just a hotel, but a living cultural center in Ketchikan (facesofketchikan.com ) (capefoxlodge.com ).
Events and Programming
Cape Fox Lodge serves as a full-service event venue as well as a hotel. Its on-site spaces host business conferences, weddings, and meetings of up to 200 people, with conference halls named after Tlingit terms (e.g. “Shaa Hit” and “Naa Kaani”) (capefoxlodge.com ) (capefoxlodge.com ). The lodge provides event planning and catering, turning its main meeting room (the 64′×26′ Shaa Hit) into a ballroom or presentation hall with AV gear and theater-style seating (capefoxlodge.com ). Adjacent breakout rooms (Blue Heron, Thunderbird, Council Room) are available for smaller groups. For very large events or performances, Cape Fox coordinates with the nearby Ted Ferry Civic Center – a modern 4,500 sq.ft. ballroom and stage just steps from the lodge entrance (capefoxlodge.com ) – effectively expanding capacity for banquets, dances or concerts beyond what the lodge can hold on its own.
For leisure and entertainment, Cape Fox Lodge keeps a lively schedule, especially during summer cruise season. The Heen Kahidi Lounge (upstairs bar area) regularly hosts live music and entertainment from April through September (capefoxlodge.com ). Local bands and singer-musicians often fill the lounge on weekends, creating a warm, intimate performance setting by the fireplace. In fact, local event calendars show themed shows at Cape Fox, for example fall 2025 had a “Girls’ Night Out” and an adult dance revue on the lineup (www.ticketfairy.com ). Although not as famous for nightly concerts as city nightclubs, the lodge’s programs include everything from jazz and folk nights to special holiday parties — often advertised a few weeks in advance. While many performances are open to all guests (sometimes free or ticketed at modest prices), Cape Fox can also be reserved for private entertainment (company parties, tribal gatherings, etc.).
Beyond on-site gatherings, the lodge offers a range of Alaska adventures. Through its Cape Fox Tours division, the resort sells excursions like salmon fishing charters, wildlife cruises, rainforest hikes and cultural village visits (capefoxlodge.com ). These tours depart right from the lodge or nearby docks and are a major part of the Cape Fox experience. Guests can easily add half-day tours when booking their stay, making the lodge a one-stop shop for both lodging and excursion packages (capefoxlodge.com ). In summary, Cape Fox Lodge’s events & programming span from casual live music in the lounge to catered conferences and curated outdoor adventures, reflecting both the lodge’s community roots and Ketchikan tourism.
Tickets and Booking
Because Cape Fox Lodge is primarily a hotel, general event tickets are usually purchased through the lodge itself rather than large ticketing websites. The simplest way to book anything—whether a concert, dinner reservation, or guided tour—is to call the lodge’s reservations desk or use the official website booking portal (capefoxlodge.com ). For special events and shows, tickets (if required) are typically sold on-site at the lodge’s front desk or box office. Some concerts or theme nights might be announced through local tourism channels or the Cape Fox social media, so regular visitors often “sign up” for the lodge’s email list or check their calendar early. In peak summer season (June–August), the lodge can be busy, so popular events sometimes sell out. The best strategy is to inquire 1–2 months ahead for any must-see performance and reserve early. Lodging rooms are also in high demand during cruise season, so advance booking for stays is advised. Package deals (room + tours) can be booked online (capefoxlodge.com ) or by ringing the 866 number on the website. Pricing varies: lodge shows usually have modest cover charges, while large event rentals can range by menu and space; family-friendly entertainment often carries just a small fee or none at all.
Seating and Layout
The lodge’s interior layout is designed for tradition and comfort. The main lobby is a grand two-story space with high wood-beam ceilings, native art and a large Tlingit “Council of the Clans” totem guiding guests inside (facesofketchikan.com ). Adjoining the lobby is the Sweet Mermaids coffee lounge with plush chairs and a fireplace, as well as the Heen Kahidi dining room upstairs, both of which have floor-to-ceiling vistas of the forest and water. For events and performances, seating varies by space. In the casual lounge performances, guests can sit at low tables or bar stools; the best views (and acoustics) are generally toward the center facing the makeshift stage or performance area. Corner seats near the fireplace offer ambiance but may see performers at an angle, so front-and-center is preferred for concerts. The two conference rooms have flexible layouts: the large “Shaa Hit” hall (64×26 ft) can be set up banquet-style, theater-style or classroom-style and accommodates over 200 people (capefoxlodge.com ). It has inset doors and few obstructions, so any seat in the center area has nearly full view. For smaller gatherings, the “Naa Kaani” boardroom holds about 12 around a table (plus a powered screen), and its window side provides natural light and harbor views (capefoxlodge.com ). The lodge also has a smaller Executive Boardroom and two suites (Blue Heron and Thunderbird) that can serve as breakout or VIP rooms. In all settings, seats in the middle-row sections are best for sightlines. Avoid standing too close to entryways or loudspeakers; likewise, front-row by the sound system is ideal for hearing. Overall, Cape Fox Lodge’s spaces prioritize flexibility — chairs and tables can be rearranged — so VIP sections or special seating are done on request (for example, reserving a front table). Outdoor seating is minimal (there is a small deck outside), since most events are indoors.
Getting There and Parking
Cape Fox Lodge lies at 800 Venetia Avenue, Ketchikan (in the Gravina Island/airport area, just west of downtown) (facesofketchikan.com ). It’s about 3.8 miles from the Ketchikan International Airport (which itself requires a short free ferry ride from town) (ie.hotels.com ). Getting there is straightforward: visitors coming via cruise ship will disembark at Ketchikan’s waterfront docks and can either taxi or even walk (about 10 minutes) to the lodge area. Notably, the lodge is only a short 10-minute walk from the Port of Ketchikan cruise docks (ie.hotels.com ), making pre-cruise stays and post-cruise lodging very convenient. If arriving by air: take the free passenger ferry across Tongass Narrows to the airport terminal (a 9-minute sail). Cape Fox Lodge operates a complimentary scheduled shuttle between the lodge and the airport ferry terminal (facesofketchikan.com ) (ie.hotels.com ). The shuttle departs the lodge roughly every 30 minutes starting early morning (first trip at 6:50 AM to meet the 7:15 AM flight ferry) through about 9:20 PM (facesofketchikan.com ). Guests can simply call ahead to have the shuttle meet them on the Ketchikan side if they’re arriving by plane. For those without reservations, taxis (e.g. Sourdough Cab) and limited Lyft service are available 24/7; drop-off and pick-up zones are clearly marked at the lodge entrance.
To park, Cape Fox Lodge provides ample on-site parking at no extra charge (www.tripadvisor.com ). There are also several ADA-accessible stalls near the front door (ie.hotels.com ) (ie.hotels.com ). The parking area is shared with the Ted Ferry Civic Center (just across a short sidewalk). Visitors should note that Ketchikan has limited public bus service (mainly a $1 day bus to attractions) and seasonal free downtown shuttles (www.alaska.org ), none of which stop directly at the lodge. However, downtown’s free summer cruise shuttles come near the lodge area, and from there one can use Cape Fox’s own tram. Speaking of which: the lodge runs a **Cape Fox Tram** from the lobby down to historic Creek Street (downtown) daily (facesofketchikan.com ). The tram is a short funicular that climbs the hillside – just press the call button in the lobby to ride up or down. This is a convenient way for pedestrians to reach downtown shops and restaurants without hiking the steep road. If driving, follow Venetia Avenue past the airport terminal; GPS systems often route visitors reliably once “Cape Fox Lodge, Ketchikan” is entered. Lastly, rideshare drop-offs and taxis usually unload at the front porte-cochère, just outside the main entrance doors.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Cape Fox Lodge, guests pass the grand totem in the lobby and are greeted by a cozy, warm atmosphere (facesofketchikan.com ). Inside is a museum-like display of native artifacts across two floors, a large stone fireplace, and lounge seating under rustic wood beams. The lobby reception desk and gift shop (selling Tlingit art, jewelry and logo souvenirs) are immediately available. The lodge’s two main dining venues are the Heen Kahidi Dining Room (open evening and brunch) and the adjacent Sweet Mermaids Lounge/Coffee Bar (facesofketchikan.com ) (capefoxlodge.com ). The Heen Kahidi Restaurant offers gourmet Alaskan cuisine — think Kodiak salmon, Alaskan king crab, halibut, and campfire-reindeer sausage — all presented as "culinary works of art" against panoramic windows (facesofketchikan.com ). The lounge (Sweet Mermaids) opens at 11 AM and feels like a ship’s salon, serving up specialty coffee, pastries and classic cocktails by a wooden bar (capefoxlodge.com ). In total there are two bars on-site: the upstairs lounge bar and a second bar counter adjoining the restaurant. The lodge also has a fitness center and laundry for guests. High-speed complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout all guest rooms and common areas (www.tripadvisor.com ).
For security and convenience, the front desk is staffed 24/7 (ie.hotels.com ). Guests typically show ID at check-in for baggage service, though there is no formal bag screening for casual visitors. The ambiance is relaxed and rustic-dress; many first-time visitors note the pleasant aroma of cedar and pine as they walk the halls. Photography of the décor is welcome, and photo-taking of public performances is usually allowed (though personal flashes may be limited for performer safety – it’s best to ask staff if in doubt). Free bottled water is available in the lobby. Restrooms can be found near the lounge and also on the lower meeting room level. A small coatroom/closet is by reception if needed; large bags can be checked temporarily if attending an event without staying overnight. The staff is known for hospitality: they often serve coffee or tea upon arrival and are happy to answer questions about the lodge’s history or the art collection. Important note: the lodge is non-smoking everywhere inside. (There is an outdoor smoking area by the rear entrance.)
Nearby Amenities
Cape Fox Lodge sits just above Ketchikan’s waterfront tourist district, so a range of dining and lodging options lie within a few blocks. Directly at the lodge is the Eagle’s Nest Brick Oven Pizza (open days/evenings) for quick, casual dining, and 108 Taphouse (right next door) known for craft microbrews, specialty cocktails (try the coconut milk margarita or celery sour) and pub fare (capefoxlodge.com ). Across the street and down the funicular, guests will find many restaurants on Creek Street – a historic boardwalk area – including local seafood eateries, cafes and the famous Baranof Pub. For bars, besides the lodge’s own lounges, locally-favorite spots like The Red or 108 TapHouse serve drinks later into the night. Two full-service hotels are also within easy easy walk: the Inn at Creek Street is 2-3 blocks below, and the new Eagles Nest Hotel is a block away. Several charming B&Bs and motels line the harbor too.
Lodging guests often inquire about timing: cruise ships typically stop in the morning, so pre-show dinners on venue nights should be planned at restaurants by 7-8 PM. After events (often wrapping by 10–11 PM), taxis are readily available or one can ride the lodge tram up to the hillside. Note southbound free shuttles between cruise docks and downtown stop at Creek Street but not up to the lodge hill, so for late nights a private ride may be needed. Coffee shops for morning meet-ups include Sweet Mermaids (on site) and others beside Creek Street (Old City Coffee). For shopping, the lodge gift shop carries high-quality Native goods, and the tram will whisk you right to boutiques on Creek Street with just one button push (facesofketchikan.com ).
What Makes This Venue Special
Cape Fox Lodge stands out because it is much more than a hotel – it’s an immersive cultural retreat. As one of the few lodges in Alaska built and run by a Native corporation (capefoxlodge.com ), it offers guests an authentic taste of Tlingit hospitality. You’ll sleep each night under hand-hewn timbers adorned with clan carvings and wake to the sound of loggers and eagles. Its history and art collection give it a museum-like quality: the lodge showcases Tlingit totems, weavings and stories throughout the halls. One especially famous piece is the “Council of the Clans” totem at the entrance (facesofketchikan.com ), though in 2023 that was replaced with a new tribal totem commemorating Cape Fox Corporation’s heritage (investor.wedbush.com ). These touches remind visitors that their stay has meaning: a portion of every dollar earned goes back to the Saxman Tlingit shareholders for education and cultural programs (capefoxlodge.com ).
Architecturally, the lodge feels uniquely Alaskan. It blends cedar logs and local copper with modern comforts. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge frame postcard-worthy views (bears sometimes fish in the creek below!). The Eagle and Raven crests carved into the mantels and doors speak of old clan feuds and legends. Even the lodge’s name – “Cape Fox” – comes from a Tlingit village on nearby Fox Island, and means “being hidden” in the original language (capefoxlodge.com ). This sense of place extends to the food: meals feature wild Alaska salmon, halibut, king crab and even reindeer sausage, paired with locally-forged drinks, all served by bartenders who proudly cite Native recipes. (facesofketchikan.com )
For performers and audiences alike, Cape Fox has its own appeal. A musician can play quietly by the fire or on the deck at sundown and feel part of the community – it’s a far cry from a sterile big-city hall. Many local entertainers love playing here because the crowd is close and friendly, often consisting of locals, ship passengers and culture tourists who feel guests rather than spectators. Anecdotes abound of spontaneous sing-alongs in the lounge or a toasting circle of speakers after a conference day. In short, the lodge is special for its blending of luxury and lore: it’s a place where Alaskan wilderness comfort meets a living Native heritage, making every visit both relaxing and meaningful (facesofketchikan.com ) (capefoxlodge.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Cape Fox Lodge is fully ADA-compliant. The building has an elevator (called a lift) connecting all public floors, and public restrooms are wheelchair-accessible (ie.hotels.com ). Outside, there are marked handicap parking spots right at the front door (ie.hotels.com ), and ramps lead to the entrance. If you need assistance on arrival (luggage, etc.) the front desk is staffed 24/7 (ie.hotels.com ) and can arrange help. Service animals are welcome.
Weather Prep: Ketchikan’s climate is famously damp. Even in summer, bring rain gear (raincoat or umbrella), waterproof footwear, and a warm layer. The lodge rooms are cozy but can feel cool overnight with mountain breezes, so pack a sweater. On sunny days, the lodge’s views are spectacular – consider sunglasses and a camera. Mosquitoes can also be present near the creek and forest edge in summer, so insect repellent is recommended for outdoor tours.
What to Bring: If attending a show or dining, casual attire is fine (jeans and a shirt) – there’s no strict dress code. If you plan to dine at the Heen Kahidi Restaurant, “resort casual” (nice jeans or khakis and a collared shirt or blouse) is appropriate. Don’t forget your ID if you’ll drink at the bar (21+ limit). For tours, pack sturdy shoes and maybe a small daypack for snacks. The lodge provides toiletries, but any personal camera, binoculars or medications are up to you. A notebook may be handy if you enjoy watching a live carving demonstration or culture talk.
Arrival Tips: Check the ferry schedule if flying into Ketchikan; you’ll need to take the airport ferry and wait for the lodge shuttle. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before any in-lodge event so you can check in at the front desk and get your seat. (For big conferences, tables and name tags may be set up in advance, so early arrival helps organizers.) Parking is free – just drive in and park. If you’re going downtown via the lodge tram, step into the lobby and press the single button; it runs every 10–15 minutes in good weather (facesofketchikan.com ). For late-night departures, note that the last airport ferry meeting shuttle is usually around 9:20 PM (facesofketchikan.com ), so schedule accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume Ketchikan has 24-hour convenience stores – it’s a small town. If you need anything (snacks, gifts), use the lodge gift shop or downtown’s Creek Street by early evening. Also, keep an eye on the tide if you’re going on dawn tours (the lodge staff can help with local schedules). Guests sometimes forget that cell phone service can be spotty here; taking photos of directions or printing them in advance can help. Finally, it’s wise to respect quiet hours if staying overnight – the lodge is tranquil after 10 PM, so late-night bar noise is usually minimal. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll get the most out of your Cape Fox Lodge experience.
How do I buy tickets for events at Cape Fox Lodge?
Tickets for shows or special events at Cape Fox Lodge are typically sold through the lodge. There’s no major box-office or online platform, so the easiest method is to call the resort’s reservations desk or stop by in person. If a concert requires advance purchase, the lodge staff will handle sales (by credit card or cash) at their front desk. It’s best to ask about event dates and availability when you book your room or check in.
Is parking free at Cape Fox Lodge and is there ADA parking?
Yes. The lodge offers complimentary on-site parking to all guests (www.tripadvisor.com ). In front of the hotel there are marked ADA-accessible spaces with a clear ramp path to the entrance (ie.hotels.com ). If those official handicap spaces are full, there is additional guest parking just behind the Civic Center. For the convenience of visitors, parking is free of any event fees.
What is the capacity of the largest event room at Cape Fox Lodge?
The main conference hall at Cape Fox, called the “Shaa Hit” (Mountain Room), measures 64′×26′ and can hold over 200 people (capefoxlodge.com ). It can be arranged theater-style for lectures or banquet-style for dinners. Smaller meeting spaces (like the Naa Kaani/Council Room) comfortably seat about a dozen around a table (capefoxlodge.com ). For events needing more space, the adjacent Ted Ferry Civic Center (4,500 sq.ft ballroom) can host several hundred additional attendees.
Does Cape Fox Lodge have free Wi-Fi and what are its amenities?
Yes. Cape Fox Lodge provides free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout all guest rooms, lounges, and meeting areas (www.tripadvisor.com ). Other key amenities include a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a 24/7 front desk (ie.hotels.com ). There are two on-site restaurants and two bars (one lounge upstairs, one downstairs) serving food and drinks (ie.hotels.com ). Guests also enjoy complimentary airport shuttle service and a daily continental breakfast (in-room or at the dining room) as part of their stay (facesofketchikan.com ) (ie.hotels.com ).
Are children allowed at Cape Fox Lodge events and dining areas?
Yes. Cape Fox Lodge is family-friendly and welcomes children in its restaurants and common areas. The dining room and Sweet Mermaids lounge welcome all ages. The only age restriction is at the bar/cocktail lounge after dark, which is limited to 21+ patrons due to Alaska’s liquor laws. In practice, children often dine with parents and may enjoy casual evenings of music downstairs. Always check event details (some shows may be adult-oriented), but most lodge activities during the day are open to kids.
Which restaurants and bars are located at Cape Fox Lodge?
Cape Fox Lodge has two main on-site restaurants and two bars/lounges (ie.hotels.com ). The Heen Kahidi Restaurant (fine dining) serves Alaskan cuisine for breakfast, lunch (seasonally) and dinner — specialties include King Crab, halibut and salmon (facesofketchikan.com ). Adjacent to the lobby is the Sweet Mermaids Lounge and Coffee Bar, which serves drinks, coffee and light fare starting late morning (capefoxlodge.com ). The lodge has a full bar upstairs in the lounge and a second bar/cocktail service area next to the dining room. In addition to these, guests love the nearby Eagle’s Nest Brick Oven Pizza (on-site casual pizza joint) and the 108 Taphouse (one block away) for more casual meals and local beers (capefoxlodge.com ).
Is Cape Fox Lodge wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The lodge is fully ADA-compliant. It offers wheelchair-accessible parking spaces (ie.hotels.com ) and a step-free path from the lot to the front entrance. Inside, a passenger elevator (ramp to lift) provides access to all floors (ie.hotels.com ). Restrooms in the lobby and event areas are built for wheelchair access, and the fitness center and business center are also accessible (ie.hotels.com ). All dining and lounge areas have level entry. If you require a mobility-friendly guest room, request an accessible room type when booking.
Are pets allowed at Cape Fox Lodge?
Yes. Cape Fox Lodge is pet-friendly; dogs are welcome for guests staying overnight (ie.hotels.com ). (There may be a small cleaning fee or weight limit, so check the policy when booking.) Only service animals are allowed in common areas under law. In general, your dog can join you in the room and on the outdoor walkways; just keep it leashed in the lobby and pickup area for cleanliness. Note: pets are not allowed inside the lodge’s dining or bar areas, and only service animals may accompany owners in those spaces.
How can I book meeting or wedding space at Cape Fox Lodge?
Cape Fox Lodge specializes in meetings, conferences and weddings (capefoxlodge.com ). To book an event space, contact the lodge’s event planning or catering department directly. They can customize a package with room rentals, AV equipment, and menu options. The primary conference hall (Shaa Hit) is ideal for large seminars and can be divided, while the ballroom and service of the adjacent Civic Center handle the biggest receptions. Because demand can be high, it’s best to reserve at least several months in advance, especially in summer. The on-site catering team will coordinate food and beverage. Call the lodge (866 number) or email the events contact on their site for quotes and dates.
What is the address of Cape Fox Lodge, and how far is it from downtown Ketchikan?
Cape Fox Lodge is located at 800 Venetia Avenue, Ketchikan, AK 99901 (facesofketchikan.com ). It sits on a hill west of the main downtown area (Creek Street). By car, it is a 2–3 minute drive (around half a mile) from downtown’s First Avenue, the ferry terminal for the airport, and the cruise docks. A convenient tram runs from the lodge down to Creek Street in about 2 minutes (facesofketchikan.com ), making a direct connection to the heart of town without needing a car. If you’re staying downtown, plan about 5–7 minutes driving time to reach the lodge (or a 10-minute walk along Venetian Way if you’re feeling energetic).
Does Cape Fox Lodge provide shuttle service to the airport or cruise terminals?
Yes. The lodge operates a courtesy shuttle that meets ferries and airplanes. For the airport, take the free Ketchikan ferry to the airport side; Cape Fox Shuttle picks you up right there (after calling ahead with your arrival time) and brings you to the hotel (facesofketchikan.com ). This runs roughly every half hour from early morning until around 9:20 PM. If coming from downtown: during summer (May–Sept), free city shuttles run between cruise docks and Creek Street (www.alaska.org ), then Cape Fox’s own tram/hotel shuttle can bring you the rest of the way up the hill. Late-night shuttle service may be limited, so after hours a taxi or rideshare is a good backup.
What are the typical ticket prices for shows at Cape Fox Lodge?
Ticket costs vary by event, but most are quite reasonable. Smaller acoustic or lounge shows often have no entry fee or a nominal cover (around $5–$15). For special concerts or themed events (like a dance revue or comedy night), prices might be in the $15–$30 range per person. When planning you should ask the lodge staff for exact pricing — they post shows ahead of time and can tell you the ticket cost. In general, prices at Cape Fox are set to suit local tastes, not big-market rates, so expect them to be moderate.
Is there a coat check or storage available at Cape Fox Lodge for events?
Cape Fox Lodge does not have a formal coat check room for events. During concerts in the lounge or meetings in the ballroom, guests typically keep their coats with them or hang them on chairs. There is a small coat closet by the front lobby (next to reception) where you can temporarily stow a jacket or umbrella, but it’s not actively monitored. For large group events or private functions, event staff can usually assist with coat storage (even utilising unused guest rooms if needed). In any case, because the Alaskan climate can be cold and wet, it’s wise to bring a light rain jacket that you won’t mind carrying during a show.
Are outside cameras or recording devices allowed during performances?
For most public performances at Cape Fox Lodge, using a personal camera or smartphone to take photos is permitted – many guests enjoy capturing the ambiance. Non-flash photography is usually fine. However, professional video recording or flash photography might be restricted (especially for ticketed events) to avoid disturbing performers. It’s best to ask the house manager or event staff when you arrive. Private events (corporate or private parties) may have their own no-photo policies, so by default assume casual photography is OK unless told otherwise.
