GBACG goes to the Gatsby Summer Afternoon

The biggest and best costume party of the year takes place at Dunsmuir Historic House in Oakland. It’s The Gatsby Summer Afternoon presented by the Art Deco Society of California.

GBACG is going to Gatsby and we hope to have the pleasure of your company. Known simply as The Gatsby, this event allows attendees to step back in time, circa 1925, as the party fills the great lawns in front of Dunsmuir House. The air is sweetened by the sounds of music from the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra playing popular favorites of the 1920s and 1930s. Antique cars offer a chauffeur service from the main gate to the picnic area.

Michele Smith is GBACG's host for this year's GBACG goes to the Gatsby Summer Afternoon. She'll be getting to the Dunsmuir House early to save a spot for our group. Please email her how much space you will need for your picnic. She'll rope off the total area we need early in the morning (to be removed later). Pennants will be on the rope with GBACG written on them and a GBACG banner on the side of a white umbrella, so you'll be able to find our spot. She'll try to set up near the eastern trees for afternoon sun; otherwise, we will be cold in the afternoon. If folks want to create a theme, let the ideas roll!

If this is your first Gatsby, a very pleasant surprise awaits you. The afternoon unfolds at a leisurely pace. Set up your picnic with us then stroll about, admiring the display of vintage cars, other picnics, and greet old friends. Take a spin on the dance floor. Tour the Dunsmuir House. As the afternoon continues, you’ll be entertained by a performance of the DecoBelles in their bathing costumes; get your free ice cream at the vintage Dreyer’s Ice Cream truck; view the Parade of Fashion and see who will win the Best Dressed Award.

Costume: Afternoon attire from 1920-1940 (or reasonable facsimile) is required. You’ll see both vintage and reproduction garments on ladies and gentlemen. We hope to see a charming variety at the GBACG Picnic.

Location: Dunsmuir House & Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, Ca.

Practicalities: Bring your folding picnic table and chairs or a picnic blanket and join us. Pack your picnic basket with all your favorites and don’t forget a chilled beverage. Michele will try to save as much space for GBACG Members and friends in our area, but it will be on first come first served basis.

Tickets: Tickets are available from the Art Deco Society. If you attended last year, you’ll receive a ticket order form in the mail. If you’re new to The Gatsby, call the ADSC office and order your tickets by phone (415-982-DECO). Be sure to mention that you are a GBACG member. Our members may purchase their advance tickets at the $40.00 ADSC-member price.

To RSVP for GBACG: Email Michele Smith at . Also, please let Michele know if you are interested in being a back-up host for this event, in case she's ill that day.

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