Inspiration for a Glitzy Harlem Nights Birthday Bash

How to Plan a Harlem Nights Birthday Party with Decor, Activities, and Favors.

We are definitely on a “roaring ‘20s roll”! Proof indeed are our recent posts on a speakeasy theme, a flapper-inspired Jazz Age party, and even an earlier one on a 1920s style wedding. We just had to add a glamorous “Harlem Nights” soiree to this series—with that unmistakable gangster era nightclub ambiance of 1920s New York. An extra-stylish way to mark a special birthday, surrounded by sparkle, glitter and luxe details in an over-the-top retro party setting.

What a thrill it is, then, for us to share decor inspiration and styling ideas from our own set, plus party attire, activities, and fittingly luxe food and beverage ideas. (*this post contains affiliate links)

Recreating the High Society Look of 1920s Harlem

From the tablescape elements to the glitzy details to the guest favors, here are ways you can capture that “Harlem Nights” flair at your party.

Harlem Nights Birthday Tablescape

Hollywood-level glam is the ambiance to aim for on the party tablescapes. Set a classic tone with an elegant palette of white and black in the table linens, with subtle touches of blush pink in the napkins and mini floral arrangements. Then, add over-the-top elements like white ostrich feathers in towering glass vases, vignette-style centerpieces composed of crystal and rhinestone accents, and chic ghost chairs for a contemporary contrast.

Harlem Nights Birthday Decorations

Speaking of sparkle and glitter, candles are a must-have element in this Harlem Nights party setting. Make them even more striking by placing them in glass cube candle holders embellished with a band of rhinestones.

Harlem Nights Birthday Centerpieces

For even more glitz on the party tables, assemble decor pieces with reflective surfaces—like metallic vases and mini planters, mirrored boxes and tiered stands, and crystal goblets, carafes, and wine glasses. Then, in place of fresh flowers and foliage, use elegant silk blooms and metallic, beaded, or crystal berries and leaves.

Harlem Nights Birthday Champagne Table

With such a luxe theme, it’s only fitting to have equally upper crust elements like this mini champagne station. All you will need is a clear ice bucket, elegant champagne flutes, a cylinder vase holding smaller ostrich feathers—all arranged on a bar cart or side table.

Harlem Nights Birthday Favors

For stylish guest favors, use daintily embroidered pouches to hold thoughtfully chosen gifts—such as petite perfume bottles, mini compact mirrors, vintage-style brooches or other trinkets reminiscent of the 1920s heyday of Harlem.

Harlem Nights Party Attire, Activities, and Signage

Beyond the tablescapes, this theme offers many other opportunities to recreate the fab roaring ‘20s era. Here are product finds and activity ideas to get you going!

Harlem Nights Birthday Props and Activities

  1. 1920 Flapper Girl Gatsby Welcome Sign – via Zazzle
  2. Roaring 20s Great Gatsby Costume Dress – via Amazon
  3. 1920s Great Gatsby Accessories Set – via Amazon
  4. Roaring 20’s Themed Party Backdrop (7x5ft) – from Funnytree, via Amazon
  5. Rosé wine tasting activity – from Bev Cooks
  6. Persist: The Game for a Legendary Girls Night – via Amazon
  7. Art Deco Bathroom Print – via Zazzle

Ideas for Appetizers, Drinks, and Desserts to Serve

Take your cue from some of our party and wedding posts featuring elegant menu choices.

  1. “Fashionable” food options
  2. Glam party food with gold
  3. Champagne floats for dessert

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

*