The History Of Marquees & Their Variations (2024)

It’s strange to think about the origin of things that have always been a constant in our lives. Christmas, camping, and toasting with a ‘cheers’ are just some of these instances, as well as celebrating in a marquee.

For many of us fortunate enough to have early and recent memories in a beautiful and inviting marquee, you may be interested to know how the marquee came to be.

So, where did they come from, and at what time did they become such an integral part of outdoor celebrations in Australia and beyond? Let’s take a dive into the history of marquees and explore the magic they bring to events.

The Origins of Marquees: What Does ‘Marquee’ Mean and Why?

Marquees, or a variation of them, have been used in centuries and cultures across the globe. The notion of pitching fabric to provide shelter or create a private space can be seen in history books and heard in ancient tales. But what is a marquee, exactly?

The word ‘marquee’ was derived from the French word ‘marquise’, and while they may not be the first adopters, they are responsible for the namesake that we all know today.

The marquee etymology is quite fascinating. ‘Marquise’ means a large linen tent with a canopy and was named as such in the 1600s by French soldiers. That’s right, the marquees that have hosted those tearful ceremonies and wild receptions actually have significant ties to battle.

If you cast your mind to some of the movies and TV shows you have seen that feature a battle, it’s typically inside a marquee that those last moments of courage and plotting take place. This marquee origin is likely quite different from your experience inside a marquee at a wedding or party!

The Evolution of Marquees: From Battlefields to Celebrations

Depending on who you ask, America and England adopted the word and function of a marquise, either in the 1700s or the 1900s. Regardless of when this happened, the word changed to drop the plural, making it ‘marquee’ as we now know it today. Before long, the marquee was a permanent fixture of any gala, feast, and extravagant outdoor event.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the English have a greater claim to the marquee than the French, as many royal marquee events have taken place (think games of Polo and afternoon tea). In fact, the marquees meaning royalty connection is quite strong, with many grand royal occasions being held under these elegant structures. Even today, our selection of traditional and black marquees are still associated with this luxury and indulgence.

Could this be a result of the history of the marquee, or has this come from the open and alluring nature of the marquee that people have come to this conclusion on their own? We think it’s a combination of both. Marquees have a rich history, and with the popularity they have enjoyed in the modern era, they will set the scene for many more iconic memories that will last the ages.

The Magic of Marquees: Creating Unforgettable Events

Summer is a mixed blessing for partying enthusiasts. On one hand, the wonderfully warm weather makes it a perfect time to set up outside with some good drinks and good friends for a day of festivities.

On the other hand, having the harsh Australian summer sun beating down on you for hours on end is as uncomfortable as it is dangerous for your skin. With that in mind, it’s easy to see why more and more Australians are taking advantage of the benefits offered by marquees.

But what is a marquee event, and why are they so popular? A marquee event is typically an outdoor celebration or gathering held under a large tent-like structure, providing shelter and creating a unique atmosphere. The marquee event meaning has evolved over time, from its military origins to become synonymous with elegance and sophistication in modern celebrations.

Different Types of Marquees for Weddings & Parties

Whether you’re tying the knot or simply trying to put on a fantastic backyard party, marquees allow you to appreciate the warm summer air without putting your comfort and skin on the line. However, with different types of events come different types of marquees. Let’s explore some of the most popular options:

1. Traditional Marquees

When talking about different types of marquees, it’s best to start with the most common. Traditional marquees are characterised by their pole-to-rope construction and tend to be what immediately jumps to mind when people think of a marquee. Aside from simply being a tried and tested classic, their vintage elegance makes them a perfect choice for garden weddings and house parties.

2. Black Marquees

Although the basic white marquee is exceedingly common for a reason, that bright colour scheme isn’t ideal for every event, especially at night. That’s where the new black marquee comes in.

A black marquee provides the perfect ambience for evening events, offering guests calming, subtle surroundings and creating a beautiful panoramic effect when coupled with a clear roof.

3. Clear Span Marquees

If you have found a location that is filled to the brim with stunning scenery, then why shouldn’t your marquee hire choice embrace that? The clear span marquee is, much like our services, fully transparent, making it the perfect way to fully experience the outdoors in style and comfort.

Given that couples will often spend a considerable amount of time selecting the perfect location for their wedding, the clear span marquee is a very popular choice for those special moments.

The Marquee Magic: Creating Memorable Moments

The concept of marquee magic goes beyond just providing shelter. It’s about creating an atmosphere, setting the stage for unforgettable moments, and transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary venues. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, or a backyard party, the right marquee can elevate the experience and create a marquee moment meaning something truly special for all attendees.

From their humble beginnings on battlefields to their current status as essential elements of elegant celebrations, marquees have come a long way. The marquee sign of sophistication and style is now firmly established in the world of events and celebrations.

At Marquee Monkeys, we are pleased to play a small part in the past, present, and future of the marquee. We’ve had the blessed fortune of being a part of many special days, and look forward to providing gorgeous, quality marquees to our future clients.

We don’t know too much about French wartime, but if you would like to learn more about our marquee selection, contact our Marquee Monkey team on 1300 934 414.

No matter the size or scope of your event, Marquee Monkeys is dedicated to ensuring that you are provided with the best experience possible. Whether it is 6m size marquee, 10m size marquee, and 15m size marquee varieties, you can feel secure in the knowledge that your outdoor shading needs are well taken care of. To learn more, or book your marquee experience, explore our pricing options, or contact Marquee Monkeys today!