When you think of a golf course, you may not think Central Illinois winter fun. But you can have all kinds of fun at Piper Glen Golf Club’s Clubhouse no matter the season, says Special Event Coordinator/ Bar Manager Jill Cole.

“We’re starting to book winter parties, especially the holiday events,” says Jill. She notes they have both an anniversary party and bridal shower on the books, too.  They’ve held wedding receptions, employee events and fundraising events as well.

“We’re not a huge venue,” says Jill, “but our main room will hold 150 and our side room holds another 50. Then there’s still room at the bar and near the snack bar, and space for a DJ or band.  Out off the large back patio you’ll find a fire pit.  “We had one group bring what they needed for glow golf, so we set up a couple of holes at the bottom of the hills and set up a putting area up near the patio.  We try to accommodate any request.”

For example, you can use any of Piper’s five preferred caterers, or bring in your own food or caterer. If you don’t use a preferred caterer, you can pay $2 more per person and use any caterer of your choice or bring in your own food.  If you bring in your own food, Jill says a limited number of utensils and bowls are available in the kitchen, as well as a flat top grill which works well for keeping things warm.

You can also include the snack bar as part of your event. Preferred caterers are:

• Nelsons
• Secret Recipes
• Hy-Vee
• Hamilton’s
• Fulgenzi’s in Chatham

When it comes to drinks, you must use the Piper Glen bar which recently lowered prices on all drinks, including soft drinks. There’s a $15 per hour, per bartender fee.  There’s a $300 minimum bar tab or a $300 fee to rent the space.

The staff takes care of table set-up and clean-up after your event.

As far as décor goes, Jill says, “You can rent table linens for $5 each, or use the vinyl coverings which are always on the tables, free of charge,” she explains. “Table skirting is also available for no charge.  Or, you can bring in your own linens.  We’re very flexible.” You can also decorate however you’d like.

The only thing we can’t be flexible on is closing time, she says. “All events must end at midnight.”

To talk to Jill about an event, call her at Piper Glenn at 217-483-6537 or email jill@piperglen.com.