The Jazz Lawn Party Of The Century
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger
This past weekend we took a huge leap back in time to a more Golden Age as we headed out to New York’s Governor’s Island, away from city civilization and into the tropical paradise that the island historically represents. Over 4500 free-spirited flappers and their dapper dates socialized at the 9th Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party. It all took place on Saturday, June 14th and Sunday, June 15th, 2014.
The fashionable fete of the year became one of the most quintessential outdoor celebrations of the northeast, transporting impeccably-dressed revelers back to the 1920’s, not only by way of their stylish garb, but also through the signature cocktails that were served along with food to feast upon and the most mesmerizing music. In fact, everyone had such an incredible time that the attendance climbed to almost a record-breaking 9000 attendees.
Intertwined amongst the guests were some notable celebrities that were spotted enjoying themselves such as JOSH LUCAS (A Beautiful Mind, Sweet Home Alabama) and his son, Noah, legendary fashion journalist LYNN YAEGER and celebrity fashion designer MIGUELINA GAMBACCINI among a host of others.
Once again, St-Germain was the signature spirit and favored drink for fashionable flappers and sporting gents alike. Master mixologist Julie Reiner of Brooklyn’s Clover Club created signature libations for the occasion, complete with vintage-inspired names like Strike Up the Band and Flapper’s Delight. New classics like the Sangria Flora and the signature St-Germain Cocktail (recipes below) were also flowing. St-Germain brought along their vintage Citroen truck, undoubtedly one of the most photographed guests at the event. To accompany the amazing libations, Chef Jimmy Carbone of Jimmy’s No. 43 curated a Taste of the 1920s menu that included a Chop Suey station and a luau-inspired feast.
As always, Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra kept the party going all day long with their unique brand of Hot-Jazz music. They were accompanied by dancers and performers including the Dreamland Follies, Roddy Caravella and the Canarsie Wobblers, and the Minsky Sisters, all of whom made sure the dance floor remained packed until it became dusk and the crowds dispersed.
Not only were attendees impressed with the music, food and revelry, but the event also featured a 1920s Car Exhibition, vintage clothing vendors and artisanal products, dance lessons, vintage portraits and more.
Although we all couldn’t be there this past weekend, perhaps each and every one of us can enjoy our own Jazz Lawn Party as we serve St.-Germain signature drinks. Each is quite easy to create, mix and keep the guests spirited and entertained.
The St-Germain Cocktail
2 parts MARTINI Prosecco
1½ parts St-Germain
2 parts Club Soda
Method: Stir ingredients in a tall ice-filled Collins glass, mixing completely. Think of Paris circa 1947. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Variation: Think of Sartre circa 1947. Be the lemon twist.
Sangria Flora
1 bottle Sauvignon Blanc or Dry White Wine
1 cup St-Germain
2 Fresh Peaches
5-6 Fresh Strawberries
6 Fresh Raspberries
1 bunch Fresh Grapes
Method: Stir ingredients in a pitcher or carafe. Soak for approximately 15 minutes (or longer if desired). Serve in an ice-filled glass, then telephone your physician and regale him with stories of your exemplary fruit consumption. Serve with St-Germain spoon-straws to enjoy the fruit while drinking.
Strike Up the Band
1.5 oz. Bombay Dry Gin
¾ oz. St-Germain
¾ oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice
¼ oz. Fresh Lime Juice
¼ oz. Simple Syrup
Muddle 1 large Strawberry in simple syrup. Shake and strain into a Collins glass. Top with Sparkling Water and garnish with a grapefruit twist.
Flappers Delight
1.5 oz. Bombay Dry Gin
¾ oz. St-Germain
¾ oz. Fresh Lime Juice
¼ oz. Simple Syrup
Fresh mint leaves muddled with simple syrup. Shake and strain into a Collins glass. Top with Sparkling Water. Garnish with a mint sprig.
What a fantastic way to savor the long summer hours and celebrate in your own special way.
PHOTOS Courtesy of Getty Images
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