The Elks Lodge is the local meeting place for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, a U.S. fraternal and charitable organization founded in 1868. In plain terms, it is part social club, part community-service organization, with many lodges hosting meals, events, and charitable programs.

Quick Scoop

  • What it is: A lodge is the local chapter and building where members gather.
  • What they do: Support veterans, youth programs, scholarships, drug-awareness efforts, and other community projects.
  • Who can join: Membership is typically by invitation and may require sponsorship and meeting eligibility rules that vary by lodge.

In simple words

If you see “Elks Lodge” on a building, it usually means there’s a local branch of the Elks organization there. Some lodges are mainly social spaces for members, while others are very active in community service and public events.

A note on the name

The organization is often called the Elks or BPOE for short, which stands for Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

If you want, I can also explain how to join , what happens at an Elks Lodge , or whether it’s open to the public.