In addition to a large, blank-slate venue, Garage B also offers the Annex, a flexible 1,000 SF space that functions for both private events and public gatherings. The Annex is an attractive and inviting area nestled in the Charles River Speedway that features original 19th-century design details and modern amenities. All manner of microevents can be held here: wedding showers, birthday parties, staff workshops, art galleries, and more. Recently, the Annex hosted three bookings within just 24 hours, each with its own unique uses and integrations from the Speedway as well as outside vendors.
MassDevelopment — a real estate finance agency with a regional office in Boston — reached out to Garage B in search of a professional off-site environment with a quick turnaround time of ten days. The Annex’s seated capacity of 30 people was able to comfortably accommodate their group in the morning for a roundtable-style meeting using the space’s included lounge furniture. Afterward, they were treated to a tour of the historic Speedway by the president of AHF Boston, the organization that spearheaded the campus’ revitalization project completed in 2021. MassDevelopment’s attendees were then able to order lunch from Pizza Project and beverages from linger while taking part in further breakout sessions. Before departing that afternoon, they also celebrated a birthday with cake and light refreshments on the biergarten tables in the central courtyard.
That evening, the Annex welcomed Divine Comedy, a monthly showcase of stand-up performances from local comedians. Having taken residence at the Speedway since 2024, the show’s curated lineups consistently see sold-out crowds. An easy arrangement of the venue’s tables and seating as well as the crew’s audio equipment efficiently turned over the relaxed and cozy space for another night of laughs. Guests were able to purchase beers from Notch Brewing and bring them into the Annex to enjoy. When the evening came to a close, the on-site Venue Manager performed a quick reset of the room to prepare it for the next event.
The following day, the Annex hosted its first wedding reception for a couple of self-proclaimed “Speedway superfans”! Alongside an intimate ceremony on the banks of the Charles River, this charming venue was perfectly suited to their fun micro-wedding vision. Preferred caterer La Bonne Maison presented a wide variety of stationary appetizers and was able to utilize the adjacent kitchenette as a food prep area. The Koji Club, mere steps from the Annex, served sake from a bar that their team brought into the space. The couple decorated with sweet, colorful bud vases and synced their own music to the in-house speakers, creating a lovely, playful atmosphere for themselves and their loved ones.
As smaller social gatherings and off-premise corporate meetings continue to rise in popularity, the Annex provides for them an affordable, versatile location in the Allston-Brighton neighborhood. Moreover, due to the minimalism of the space, it is particularly beneficial for last-minute bookings. Learn more about this small-scale venue to inquire about availability and book a tour!