The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a 1920s Themed Event
A 1920s themed event is a timeless classic, a flamboyant theme to transform gala dinners, private parties, corporate events and more.
With the desire for more creative ways to theme parties and functions, the 1920s Great Gatsby Theme has stolen the show, due to its refined dressing, elegant decor and exuberant music and dance.
Why Choose a 1920s Theme?
The 1920s were a truly iconic decade, where indulgence and exclusivity were the fashion, meaning your 1920s themed event can be decadent, flamboyant and excessive.
Your guests will adore being a part of the glamour of the era. From intimate jazz lounges to cocktails and flapper dancers.
Whether you’re inspired by The Great Gatsby, the extravagant soirées of the Roaring Twenties, or the allure of prohibition-era speakeasies, the possibilities for creating an unforgettable event are endless!
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1920s Themed Event Styling and Venue Transformation
The most crucial element to your 1920s party theme is the venue styling. From the moment guests arrive, they should know what era they have entered.
Covering the entire decade, you can approach your 1920s theming in a variety of ways depending on the type of ambience and experience you wish to create.
Prohibition Theming
As a huge part of the 1920s, the concept of prohibition is an excellent way to add some exciting twists to your event.
The probation saw the transportation of banned alcoholic beverages, and that’s why it’s a core 1920s theme exuding mystery and rustic allure.
Begin by converting your venue or event space into a speakeasy bar! These spaces allowed people in the 1920s to sell and drink alcohol secretly.
You can use a wide range of simple props and decorations to convert any room into an authentic “booze bar”, such as Vintage signposts, 1920s vintage furniture, large whiskey barrels, themed bar staff and a selection of 1920s era Jazz music.
Some key elements of the prohibition theme include Moonshine, a homemade alcohol that was known for its potency! Although you can’t sell moonshine now (nor would you want to drink it), you can recreate the vibe with a stylish rustic pallet bar and signage, serving safe alternatives.
Use crates and alcoholic bottles, as we have done here, as creative installations to theme your event space and even create a unique drinks table.
TOP TIP: As speakeasies were operated in secret to avoid being shut down by the law, attendees were required to provide a secret password at the door. A fun way to enhance the experience at your event is to feature a secret password on your invitations for your guests to whisper upon entry!
Great Gatsby & Roaring 20s Glamour
If you have seen the very popular movie “The Great Gatsby” with Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire, you already know exactly what we’re talking about, but if not, then here it is.
In The Great Gatsby movie, millionaire Jay Gatsby hosts one of the most breathtaking gala events you have ever seen, and it is packed with classic 1920s decor and style.
Our event production team were inspired to recreate the film vibe at this Gleneagles gala event.
Key to this 1920s party theme is opulence and extravagance.
By combining some of these features, you can create an identical experience. Some of the options you can pick from are large pillar props, luscious wall draping, antique furniture, large feather displays, antique bars and more.
Use Gatsby styling elements such as Gangster props, 1920s-style wall displays, feathered table centrepieces and other features:
- Vintage Briefcases
- Tommy Guns (Replica)
- Old Newspapers and Records
- Art Deco Patterns and Centrepieces
- Gold Trimmed Decor
- Gramophones and 1920s Jazz Instruments
- Posters of Gangsters and Jazz Singers
All That Jazz
The Jazz Age is a coined feature of the 1920s and an essential theming element to bring to your prohibition events.
Reminiscing about the carefree style of the era with upbeat rhythm, improvising, and swing elements, you can fuel your parties with lavish theming and all-night celebration.
1920s Jazz theming can be brilliant for a large gala dinner event, leading guests through numerous spaces, including an entryway to drop off coats, through to the lounge area to be greeted by a sultry Jazz band, and then into a grand main gala hall.
1920s and Gatsby Themed Entertainment
To create an authentic 1920s Gatsby atmosphere, your event requires captivating performances!
The Roaring Twenties got its name for a reason, from lively swing bands to energetic Charleston dancers to dazzling flapper performances and thrilling speakeasy shows! Your event should emulate the excitement and glamour of this era.
1920s themed entertainment can combine stunning walkabout entertainment to interact with guests, impromptu dance performances, stage cabarets, sultry saxophonists and incredible live bands.
Or you can go ultra high impact with fire performances, bespoke shows, and immersive theatrical acts, from gangster stunt shows to thrilling speakeasy raids and aerial acrobatics.
Below are some of our most popular 1920s themed entertainment options, sure to make an impact at your Gatsby themed event.
1920’s Singers
Nothing sets the mood quite like a sultry 1920s singer or trio! Bring swing to life with an authentic solo artist or band who will perform all the 1920s vintage songs, as well as singing modern classics in retro jazz style.
We suggest having a live performance as guests enter your venue, setting the atmosphere straight away for the evening ahead.
Gangster Mimes
Walking around your venue, sporting weapons, cigars and dressed in classic gangster attire, our gangster performers are an excellent addition to a 1920’s 1920s-themed event for photos, guest interaction and more.
As well as looking the part, these talented performers also take on a hilarious gangster persona that will crack a smile on any guest’s face.
Flapper & Charleston Dancers
Another iconic symbol of the 1920’s, our flapper dancers are a fun and exciting way to show your guests a great time!
With infectious energy and opulent outfits, these performers will bring the spirit of the 1920s Jazz age to your event, perfect for Gatsby, Roaring Twenties and speakeasy events.
Performing on stage or down on the dance floor, our flapper dancers are high-speed, breathtaking and will send your night flying through time.
The Charleston is famous as being one of the most popular dances of the 1920s, known for its quick footwork, kicks and synchronicity. Our Gatsby Girls can bring it to life at your 1920s themed party:
1920s Burlesque Performers
Dazzle guests with 1920s burlesque performances, with feathered fans, sparkling costumes, and sultry performances that will transport guests to the height of the Jazz Age glamour.
For something slightly different, combine burlesque and fire with a cabaret performance, such as our solo male burlesque dancer:
Aerialists
Aerial performers are a glamorous way to captivate guests at your 1920s party theme.
Adding an element of breathtaking spectacle and sophistication, aerial acts are an opulent experience that will leave guests mesmerized.
Choose between a multitude of options, such as our birdcage aerialist:
This elegant act is the perfect focal point, with the striking bird cage setting emulating the extravagance of the Roaring Twenties.
Or you can opt for another prop-based aerialist such as our Martini Glass Dancers who perform elevated, standing out amongst your guests:
Or how about a highly glamorous way to serve your champagne? Our champagne aerialist will pour drinks as your guests arrive from her aerial lollipop whilst dressed in 1920s costume:
Did Someone Say Champagne…
On the floral notes of champagne, serve up the sparkles in style with our Formal Champagne Walkabout tables. These hosts and hostesses wear super flamboyant skirts which hold champagne flutes:
Bands & Musicians
Bringing the Jazz Age to life, your 1920s party theme needs an electrifying swing band or musician!
No 1920s event is complete without the swinging music of the era.
Live swing music sets the perfect tone with upbeat rhythms, soulful melodies and authentic sounds of brass, keeping your guests buzzing all night long.
Don’t Play With Fire…Unless
Give guests a surprise with our flaming saxophonist! This musician will play jazz classics whilst flames lick from his instrument. This flamboyant act is perfect for your 1920s themed party to delight audiences:
Host The Ultimate 1920s Themed Event With Us!
We hope you have found our ultimate guide to 1920s themed parties and events useful and can now go away feeling armed with all the knowledge to start planning the glam!
Our creative events team at Julia Charles are on hand to help with any part of your planning process. From deciding the perfect 1920s event theming to picking the most impactful entertainment.
If you would like to discuss your upcoming 1920s themed event, send us a quick enquiry below:
We have designed and managed 1920s themed events for numerous clients, including full venue transformations and electrifying lineups of entertainment.
Related Services:
- 1920s and Gatsby Themed Events
- 1920s Themed Entertainment
- Gala Dinners & Award Ceremonies
- Event Production
- Stage & Set Design
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