New York State (I Love NY) brought a slice of Roaring Twenties magic to Sydney this week, celebrating the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s seminal novel The Great Gatsby in style.
Hosted by I Love NY, with support from marketing partner Linkd Tourism, Time Out and Delta Air Lines, which is also marking its 100th anniversary in 2025, the “Gatsby’s Hidden New York” event transformed Hilton Sydney’s iconic Marble Bar into a Prohibition-era speakeasy.
The night featured 1920s jazz, theatrical performances, vintage cocktails like the New York Orchard Martini and a menu of Empire State culinary classics, from Buffalo wings to ice cream sundaes.
With 20s glamour in full swing, over 150 guests were immersed in an evening of literary escapism that paid tribute to the grandeur of Long Island’s Gold Coast, a key inspiration behind Fitzgerald’s masterpiece.
The event aimed to highlight New York State’s rich cultural heritage and enduring literary charm, from Gatsby’s glamorous East and West Egg settings to the real-life estates like Oheka Castle and The Plaza Hotel.
For those inspired to experience Gatsby’s New York firsthand, I Love NY is even offering a “Book Jetting Through Gatsby’s New York” itinerary. With a century of storytelling behind it, Gatsby’s legacy – and New York’s allure – seem as captivating as ever.
“We’re delighted to bring the glamour of 1920s New York to Sydney, paying homage to one of the key literary influences of the twentieth century. Long Island’s mansions and the city’s hidden speakeasies capture the essence of The Great Gatsby, a timeless New York State love story that travellers can still experience today,” Linkd Tourism’s Michael Cassis said.
“This event highlights our innovative approach to destination marketing. By partnering with Time Out and creating an immersive experience, we’ve brought New York State’s rich cultural narrative to life for international audiences.”
Jacqui Walshe, CEO and Managing Director of The Walshe Group, Delta’s GSA in Australia and New Zealand said, “It was an honour to represent Delta Air Lines at such a spectacular celebration of The Great Gatsby’s 100-year legacy”.
“Delta’s journey from a small crop-dusting company to the world’s leading global airline mirrors the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines The Great Gatsby,” she added.
“We’re proud to share this milestone year with such an iconic piece of literature, and we look forward to offering Australians a seamless way to reach to Gatsby’s New York.”
For more info on I Love NY, click here.
