Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties with a Great Gatsby themed party that exudes all the elegance and opulence of the era. No Gatsby soirée is complete without the classic 1920s cocktails enjoyed by socialites and flappers alike in defiance of strict Prohibition laws. In this blog post, we're sharing our top five timeless cocktail recipes that will transport your guests to the glamorous world of Jay Gatsby himself. So don your glad rags, set up your speakeasy, and get ready to toast to the Jazz Age!
Prohibition Era Cocktails
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The 1920s are known for glamorous, free-spirited parties despite the fact that the United States had banned liquor nationwide. During these dry years, spirits were often enjoyed in secret, hidden away in back alleys and speakeasies where clandestine gatherings took place. Surprisingly, many classic cocktails were developed or gained popularity during Prohibition. This is because much of the illegal, home-brewed liquor available to bartenders was poor in quality, and savvy mixologists sought to mask the taste with other delicious ingredients such as syrups, juices, honey, fruit, bitters, and more. They would also stretch their supplies by adding soda and other mixers.
With creativity and determination, these Prohibition Era bartenders refined cocktail recipes that have endured the test of time. Many of these recipes were carefully documented in bartending guides, and nearly every guidebook published includes these classic drinks. Today, these drinks are as delicious as ever and can be made with whatever quality of liquor you choose. Want to truly immerse yourself in the 1920s speakeasy experience? Take a cue from the innovators of the era and improve or invent a cocktail of your own! Here are five of the most popular drinks of the 1920s to get you started.
1920s Cocktail Recipe 1: The Classic Martini
The Classic Martini embodies the sophistication and elegance of the Roaring Twenties. Simple yet refined, the gin martini is the perfect choice for those looking to easily impress their guests and elevate the evening. Common garnishes include olives on a cocktail pick or a twist of lemon rind.
TIP: Easily create a lemon twist by shaving off a length of lemon peel with a vegetable peeler. For a fancier twist, cut the fruit and pith from a lemon slice with a paring knife and twist the rind.
Go to Recipe: The Classic Martini
1920s Cocktail Recipe 2: Bee's Knees
The Bee's Knees is a sweet and tangy concoction that was beloved during the Prohibition era. With a delightful combination of gin, lemon, and honey — plus a fun on-theme name — this mixed drink will surely have your party guests buzzing with delight.
1920s Cocktail Recipe 3: French 75
The French 75 is a sparkling and refreshing gin-and-champagne cocktail that beautifully captures the celebratory spirit of the Roaring Twenties. The cocktail has a notable connection to World War I, with its name referencing the powerful French 75mm field gun used during the war. With its effervescent charm, this is the perfect drink to raise in a toast as you enjoy the night's festivities.
1920s Cocktail Recipe 4: Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a Southern classic, is known as the signature cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, and showcases the most American of spirits: bourbon. Typically served in a frosty silver cup or a Collins glass, this refreshing bourbon whiskey cocktail found its way into the hearts of many during the 1920s and is a must-have at any Gatsby-themed gathering. Serve with a sprig of fresh mint added to the top of the glass for extra appeal.
1920s Cocktail Recipe 5: Sidecar
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The iconic Sidecar, with its sophisticated blend of cognac, triple sec, and lemon juice, was a popular choice among the fashionable crowd of the 1920s. Sipping on this citrus-y delight will transport your guests back to the glamorous era of flappers and speakeasies. If you love a dry, tart cocktail, omit the optional sugar rim — otherwise, enjoy the sweet contrast with every sip!
Bring the Great Gatsby Era to Life
Mixing up some elegant drinks will take your 1920s themed party from good to glamorous, but for entertainment that will fully immerse your guests in the Prohibition Era, check out StoryPop's in-person role-playing game, The Silver Swallow Club! This murder mystery game is set in a 1920s speakeasy where the bootleg liquor flows freely and the party starts after dark. When the soiree is disrupted by a vicious murder, you and your guests must uncover clues and question suspects to solve the crime.
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With digital RSVPs, themed food and decor inspo, and app-guided gameplay, StoryPop is your new favorite party planning partner. Download the StoryPop app and schedule your Roaring Twenties party today!
Cheers to extravagance!
The 1920s was a time of great prosperity, glitz, and excitement, and what better way to capture the essence of that era than with a selection of classic cocktails? Whether you choose to serve the timeless Martini, the enchanting Bee's Knees, the celebratory French 75, the refreshing Mint Julep, or the sophisticated Sidecar, these recipes are sure to transport your guests to the roaring Jazz Age. Raise your glasses and toast the spirit of the Prohibition Era as you sip on these delicious libations at your Great Gatsby themed party. Cheers to an evening filled with elegance, charm, and a touch of nostalgia!
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