How to Plan an Epic Roaring '20s Great Gatsby NYE Party
Ready to ring in the New Year with the ultimate blast from the past? Step into the glamorous world of the Roaring ’20s and plan a Great Gatsby New Year’s Eve party that will leave your guests dazzled and ready to dance the night away! The Jazz Age is all about luxury, excess, and nonstop fun—exactly what you want for an unforgettable NYE celebration.
Here's how to plan a night full of vintage glitz, Gatsby-level elegance, and Prohibition-style mischief that will transport everyone straight to the roaring 1920s.
1. The Venue: Transform Your Space into Gatsby’s Mansion
You don’t need a sprawling estate like Jay Gatsby’s to throw a fabulous party, but you do need to transform your space into a 1920s fantasy! Whether you’re hosting at home or in a rented venue, make sure it oozes luxury and opulence.
Use gold foil fringe curtains for that Greats Gatsby look
Art Deco Magic: Start by choosing a black, gold, and silver color scheme. Look for art deco-style patterns (those bold, geometric designs that scream "Roaring ’20s"). Use metallic accents, velvet fabrics, and even peacock feathers for extra flair.
Dim Lighting: Low lighting was key in those Prohibition-era speakeasies. Use vintage lamps, candles in gold holders, and string lights to create that moody, jazz-club atmosphere. Don't forget a few well-placed chandeliers or glitzy light fixtures!
Gatsby-Inspired Décor: Go all out with opulent touches—think oversized feather centerpieces, gold accents, and plenty of mirrors. Vintage items like gramophones, cocktail shakers, and flapper-style hats as table décor will instantly transport guests back to the Jazz Age.
Tip: Set up a dedicated photo area with a luxe backdrop—something art deco-inspired or even a faux Gatsby mansion sign—and fill it with props like pearls, fedoras, and vintage cars!
2. Dress Code: Glitz and Glamour Required!
Your party will only feel like a Gatsby affair if your guests are dressed the part, so make the dress code clear—think bold, glamorous, and unapologetically extravagant!
Get Creative: Consider adding a “Best Dressed” contest with prizes like bottles of champagne or themed party favors—this will get everyone excited to show off their costumes!
3. Set the Mood with Swinging Jazz and Charleston Beats
Nothing says the Roaring ’20s like the upbeat tunes of the Jazz Age. The right music will elevate your Gatsby NYE party from fun to fabulous.
Curate the Perfect Playlist: Fill your playlist with jazz and swing classics from legends like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Bessie Smith. Don’t be afraid to throw in some electro-swing remixes for a modern twist that’ll keep everyone on their feet.
Live Music for Extra Flair: If your budget allows, hire a live jazz band or swing quartet to perform. The energy from live music will take your party to the next level. If not, consider a DJ who can mix vintage tunes with modern hits.
Pro Tip: Clear a dance floor and make room for a Charleston dance-off! Hire a dance instructor to teach the basics, then watch your guests bust out some vintage moves.
4. Craft the Perfect 1920s Cocktail Menu
No Gatsby party is complete without Prohibition-era cocktails—and plenty of champagne, of course! Serve drinks in vintage-style glassware to really give your bar that Roaring ’20s vibe.
Must-Have Cocktails: Serve up classics like the French 75, Gin Rickey, and Sidecar, or try a Bees Knees or Mint Julep for something fresh and delicious. Champagne is mandatory for the NYE countdown—consider setting up a show-stopping champagne tower for added drama.
Speakeasy Vibes: For an extra dose of 1920s charm, create a “speakeasy” bar hidden behind a curtain or secret door, where guests need a password to enter. Once inside, serve them exclusive, custom cocktails with clever names like "The Gatsby Glam" or "The Daisy Delight."
Mocktail Station: Not everyone drinks, so set up a Prohibition-style mocktail bar for guests who want the glam without the booze. Virgin French 75s or a non-alcoholic Gin Rickey are perfect choices!
5. Sumptuous, Stylish Snacks
The 1920s were known for decadent, glamorous parties—and your food should reflect that! Keep it light and sophisticated with elegant finger foods that are easy to eat while mingling and dancing.
Savory Bites: Serve canapés like smoked salmon crostini, deviled eggs, stuffed mushrooms, and caviar-topped crackers. Mini sliders or fancy finger sandwiches are perfect for late-night snacking.
Sweets: Set up a lavish dessert table with treats like macarons, gold-dusted chocolates, éclairs, and petit fours. And don't forget a decadent, glittering NYE cake to impress your guests.
Tip: Have waitstaff (or designated friends) pass trays of food throughout the night for that extra touch of Gatsby luxury!
6. Engage Guests with Immersive 1920s Entertainment
Entertainment is key to keeping the energy up and the vibe just right. Here are a few ways to bring the 1920s to life at your party.
Casino Games: Set up poker or blackjack tables for a Gatsby-style gambling den. Hand out play money, and let guests bet big in true Jay Gatsby fashion!
Photo Booth Fun: Encourage guests to snap photos in your Gatsby-themed booth. Feather boas, pearls, and gangster hats make perfect props!
Charleston Contest: After teaching your guests the Charleston basics, host a lively dance contest. Offer prizes for the best dancers—it’ll get everyone moving and laughing!
Pro Tip: If your party is on a larger scale, hire actors to play the role of flappers, gangsters, or even Gatsby himself. Their mingling with guests can add a touch of mystery and intrigue to the night!
7. Plan the Ultimate Midnight Countdown
The countdown to midnight is the highlight of any NYE party, so make it as grand as possible!
Champagne Toast: Hand out glasses of champagne as the clock approaches midnight, and gather everyone for a grand countdown. Be ready to toast in Gatsby style!
Balloon Drop or Confetti Explosion: Go big with a midnight balloon drop or a shower of gold confetti when the clock strikes twelve. Sparklers or indoor fireworks also make for a dramatic entrance into the New Year.
Big Band Finale: If you have live music, time it so the band plays a dramatic, upbeat number right as the clock strikes midnight—it’ll have everyone cheering and dancing!
8. Invitations & Party Favors: Details That Matter
Your invitations set the tone for the party, so make them as glamorous and enticing as possible!
Art Deco Invitations: Choose elegant, gold-embellished invites that reflect the glitz and glam of the 1920s. Include cheeky Gatsby-inspired language like, "A Little Party Never Killed Nobody!"
Favors: Send your guests home with fabulous party favors like mini champagne bottles, custom gold flasks, or even feather headbands and vintage accessories. They’ll be talking about your Gatsby bash long after the New Year’s confetti settles!
By planning every dazzling detail, you’ll throw the ultimate Roaring '20s Great Gatsby NYE party that your guests will rave about well into the new year. From the sparkling cocktails to the Charleston dance-offs, this celebration will have the perfect blend of glamour, fun, and over-the-top style. So, get ready to channel your inner Gatsby and make this New Year's Eve the most glamorous one yet! Cheers to the new year!
