To mark the 100-year legacy of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, I Love NY, through its strategic partner Linkd Tourism, and in collaboration with Time Out, brough ‘Gatsby;s Hidden New York’ to Sydney through a VIP event last night.
The event, held at the historic Marble Bar in the Hilton Sydney, welcomed 150 guests for an immersive journey into the Roaring Twenties, blending New York State’s cultural heritage with the timeless charm of Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Guests were transported to “that slender riotous island which extends itself due east of New York,” where Long Island’s Gold Coast mansions reflect the opulence of Gatsby’s world. The night captured the spirit of New York State’s hidden speakeasies and the glamour of bringing to life the mystery, beauty, and decadence that defined an era.
Linkd Tourism strategic director Michael Cassis said, “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.”
“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.”
- A Gatsby-inspired evening.
Delta Air Lines, which is also celebrating its centennial year in 2025, supported the event.
The Walshe Group, Delta GSA in Australia and New Zealand CEO and managing director, Jacqui Walshe, said, “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. 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”.
Highlights of the evening included:
- New York Orchard Martinis, a bespoke cocktail inspired by the State’s vast apple orchards
- Wine from New York State’s Finger Lakes region
- New York-themed culinary experience, including local dishes such as Buffalo Wings (from Buffalo-Niagara), Chicken Spiedies (from Central New York plus Jell-O and Ice Cream Sundaes (both born in New York State)
- Performances that captured the spirit of 1920s New York
- An authentic recreation of the era’s ambiance
The event commemorated The Great Gatsby’s 100-year legacy and reinforced New York State’s position as a global cultural destination, inspiring travellers and literature enthusiasts alike.
