There’s something timeless about the glamour of the Roaring ’20s. The flapper dresses and glittering decor bring instant charm. Add in the lively energy, and it’s no wonder this theme remains a favorite for weddings, milestone birthdays, and corporate galas.
But pulling off a truly memorable 1920s bash takes more than just a dress code and a few feathered centerpieces.
One thing you can’t skip? The music. Live entertainment brings the 1920s vibe to life. It gets guests tapping their feet and filling the dance floor. That’s why many hosts look for a jazz band for hire. Real musicians recreate the sound and energy of the era. It turns a fun theme into an unforgettable night.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to planning a ’20s event that really swings.
1. Set the Scene With Vintage-Inspired Decor
Think art deco everywhere. Bold geometric patterns that catch the eye. Gold and black dripping with drama. And glitz, lots of it, to make the whole room sparkle. Drape your tables in sequins that shimmer as guests move around. Raise tall feather centerpieces that scream glamour. Scatter crystal and mirrored touches to bounce the light and energy.
And make sure there’s a backdrop guests can’t ignore. A faux speakeasy door for that secret club vibe. Or a golden photo wall that begs for selfies. Every corner should feel bold, bright, and unapologetically over the top, just like the Roaring ’20s.
2. Make Music the Star of the Night
Live jazz isn’t just background noise; it’s the heartbeat of any Roaring ’20s bash. And don’t worry if your crowd is Gen Z. Turns out, they’re helping bring jazz back. According to Axios, Gen Z is fueling a jazz revival. Artists like Laufey, Domi, and JD Beck are giving vintage sounds a fresh spin.
So, hiring a jazz band doesn’t just set the mood. According to RMF Entertainment, it transforms your event, making guests feel like they’ve stepped back in time. Look for a jazz band that knows how to swing, ragtime, and bring that big band energy. Bonus points if they can get your guests up for a quick Charleston lesson between sets.
3. Serve Up Prohibition-Era Cocktails
A 1920s event wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the iconic speakeasy scene. In 1919, the passage of the National Prohibition Act forced alcohol consumption underground. This gave rise to hidden bars and jazz-filled speakeasies that became the heartbeat of the Jazz Age.
Despite the ban, this era sparked an explosion of cocktail creativity. Bartenders concocted inventive drinks to mask the harsh flavors of bootleg liquor.
To capture the essence of the time, stock your bar with classic cocktails. Include favorites like the French 75, Sidecar, Bee’s Knees, and the iconic Gin Rickey. Presentation matters- serve these in elegant coupe glasses, garnished with lemon twists or edible flowers for that extra flair.
For an added touch of drama, consider a hidden bar area or a password-protected entry. It will transport your guests into the secret world of the Roaring ’20s.
4. Encourage Dress Code Compliance (the Fun Way)
Half the fun of a Roaring ’20s event is the fashion. Invite your guests to channel the glitz and elegance of the 1920s. Think flapper dresses adorned with fringe, pearl necklaces draping elegantly, suspenders paired with pinstripe suits, and fedoras adding the finishing touch.
The 2025 Met Gala proved that 1920s styles are still as captivating as ever, with kiss-curls and finger waves dominating the red carpet. These signature hairstyles, with soft tendrils and sleek waves, perfectly capture the jazz-fueled elegance of the time.
To make it easy for your guests to channel their inner flappers and dappers, provide inspiration boards. For an added touch of fun, set up a “dress-up station” with accessories like feather boas, headbands, and pocket watches. This lets everyone get into character and dance the night away in true Roaring ’20s style.
5. Light It Up Like Gatsby
Lighting is one of the most powerful elements when it comes to setting the mood for a Roaring ’20s event. To create a warm, glamorous ambiance, consider using soft amber uplighting that casts a golden glow across the room.
String lights can add a touch of whimsy and romance, while chandeliers bring a classic elegance that transports your guests to another time.
If your budget allows for a little extra flair, a marquee sign or custom neon can make a bold statement. A catchy 1920s phrase like “Let’s Misbehave” will instantly elevate the atmosphere and invite your guests to embrace the spirit of the era.
6. Add Entertainment Beyond the Dance Floor
Beyond the music, consider bringing in entertainers who would have perfectly complemented the vibrant energy of a 1920s club. Tap dancers, with their rhythmic beats, could easily captivate the crowd. On the other hand, burlesque performers would add a touch of sultry glamour reminiscent of the era’s vaudeville shows.
For something interactive, a cigar-rolling station can be a hit, inviting guests to witness the artistry behind this once-fashionable craft. During Prohibition, cigars and cigarettes were symbols of rebellion and opulence in an era defined by secrecy.
Figures like Al Capone and Winston Churchill were notorious cigar aficionados. They used them as a statement of defiance against the constraints of the time. Lighting up a cigar became a way to embrace a luxurious lifestyle while making a quiet protest against the restrictions of the 1920s.
To elevate the experience even more, consider adding casino tables to your event. These games bring the thrill of underground gambling to life, enhancing the illicit, forbidden atmosphere of the Prohibition era.
7. Don’t Forget the Keepsakes
Send your guests home with memorable and practical favors they’ll actually enjoy. Mini bottles of champagne make a festive and elegant gift. Custom cocktail recipe cards allow guests to recreate your event’s signature drinks at home. Vintage-style keychains are a charming keepsake to remind them of the night.
Don’t forget to hire a photographer or set up a photo booth to capture everyone looking their glamorous best. These simple yet thoughtful touches will ensure your guests remember the event long after it’s over.
FAQs:
What was the significance of the 1920s in American history?
The 1920s, often referred to as the “Roaring ’20s,” were a period of economic prosperity, cultural change, and social upheaval. It marked the end of World War I, the beginning of Prohibition, and the rise of consumerism, jazz, and modernity. This era saw a shift in societal norms, with women gaining more independence and cities becoming vibrant cultural hubs.
What was Prohibition, and what effect did it have on life during the Roaring ’20s?
Prohibition, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, was the nationwide ban on the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. Despite its intent, it led to the rise of illegal bars called speakeasies, bootlegging, and organized crime. It became a defining aspect of the 1920s, with people finding creative ways to enjoy alcohol despite the restrictions.
How did jazz influence 1920s culture?
Jazz became the soundtrack of the Roaring ’20s, reflecting the decade’s spirit of rebellion, freedom, and excitement. It spread across the country, from Harlem’s Cotton Club to cities like Chicago and New Orleans. Jazz helped shape the cultural landscape, influencing fashion, dance, and social gatherings.
Overall, the key to planning a successful Roaring ’20s event is full immersion. When every element, from the jazz band to the cocktails to the lighting, aligns perfectly, your guests will feel the magic. They won’t just attend a party; they’ll step back in time. So polish those dance shoes, perfect your “old sport” greeting, and get ready to throw a bash that even Gatsby would envy.