The Venue at Horse Cave
Renovations have been underway at 111 Water Street in Horse Cave to create a venue space for the community to utilize and enjoy. Photo submitted.
By Mary Beth Sallee
Managing Editor
Hart Co. News-Herald
A new event space will soon be opening in Hart County.
Located at 111 Water Street, The Venue at Horse Cave will offer an available space for a variety events, from showers and weddings to birthdays and reunions, holiday events, milestone celebrations, business meetings, and much more.
Sarah McDowell is the owner and operator of the business, with Lisa Rayburn working as event coordinator. The building itself is owned by John Hishmeh, who has been helping with remodeling to make the building suitable as an event space.
“It has been a labor of love,” Sarah McDowell said of The Venue at Horse Cave. “I could not have done this without the help that so many have given with the remodeling and bringing my vision to life.” Photo submitted.
“The Venue at Horse Cave will be for just about any event one can imagine,” McDowell said. “…The main level will be operational in March with 100 person capacity. Later on, we hope to utilize the upper level as well, which also has 100 person capacity. One of the projects we are looking forward to the most is the basement with a 50 person capacity. We plan to create a speakeasy theme there for smaller events.”
McDowell said the venue will offer historic charm and character, as well as a relaxed hometown feeling.
“I have loved the building itself for years, and with the size, history, and character, I felt an event space is well suited for it,” McDowell said. “Likewise, I felt that Horse Cave needs an event venue and place for the community to come together in.”
Additionally, McDowell said that she and the others also plan to host their own events throughout the year to support other local businesses and non–profits alike.
“There may be more plans than we can fit in, but we are excited to give it a try,” McDowell explained. “We can’t wait to see everyone and see what this space can become. It is very important to me to have a venue where all can feel welcome and create lasting memories.”
McDowell would like the community to know how much she appreciates all of the support and excitement that has been shown regarding the venue.
“That really has made all the hard work, late nights, and weekends worth it,” McDowell said. “It has been a labor of love. I could not have done this without the help that so many have given with the remodeling and bringing my vision to life. I am eternally grateful. It is my hope that the venue will be able to give back to our community as well in the form of our connections, support, and revenue to our town.”
The Venue at Horse Cave is planned to be fully operational by March 1, although McDowell hopes to have a soft opening on February 13 and 14 for Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day.
The main level at The Venue at Horse Cave is slated to open in March with a 100 person capacity. Photo submitted.
