To mark the 100-year legacy of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, I Love NY, through its strategic marketing partner, Linkd Tourism, and in collaboration withTime
Out, brought “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, transported guests back to the glamour of the Roaring Twenties in New York State’s Prohibition era. When guests stepped through the doors, they were immersed in an atmosphere of speakeasy sophistication, with jazz tunes, vintage cocktails, and an ambience reminiscent of Gatsby’s high society parties in his Long Island mansion.
The event 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.
Delta Air Lines supported the event, which is also celebrating its centennial year in 2025. Jacqui Walshe, CEO and Managing Director, The Walshe Group, Delta’s GSA in Australia and New Zealand, shared, “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. 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”.
“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,” said Michael Cassis from Linkd Tourism. “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.”
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.
Book Jetting Through Gatsby’s New York
Visitors to New York State can take a literary escape to the world of Gatsby across the “slender, riotous island east of New York”. Sail across Long Island Sound on guided tours that reveal the grand estates that inspired Fitzgerald’s vision.
Explore the Gold Coast mansions like Oheka Castle, where lavish parties once filled the gardens with champagne and stars. Experience New York City from the Queensboro Bridge, where the city unfolds in all its mystery and beauty. VisitThe Plaza Hotel, where Gatsby confronted Tom, or join Prohibition tours that uncover hidden speakeasies where New York’s elite once gathered. Literary enthusiasts can tour Great Neck (West Egg) and Sands Point (East Egg), discovering Fitzgerald’s real-life inspirations, including the author’s former home. Complete your book jetting journey at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, once the Valley of Ashes, offering a stark contrast to East and West Egg.
