The beloved New York tradition celebrates 21 years with live hot jazz, dancing, vintage style and family-friendly festivities, November 7–8
NEW YORK, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Jazz Age Lawn Party, back by popular demand for a second 2026 weekend, present their first ever Autumn Edition on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8. The celebration will transform Governors Island into an immersive 1920s wonderland replete with live Hot Jazz, dancing on a jumbo dance floor under falling leaves, vintage fashion and shopping, warm handcrafted cocktails, picnicking and more. The festivities run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m daily each day.
Now marking its 21st anniversary in New York City, Jazz Age Lawn Party began in 2005 as a small gathering of friends and grew into an international destination for guests drawn to the music, style and exuberant spirit of the Jazz Age. Founded and hosted by Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra, the event invites families, locals and visitors to step into one of the most colorful eras in American cultural history.
The autumn setting adds a new flourish to the tradition: a ferry ride across New York Harbor, stunning fall foliage, new sartorial options (tweeds, hats, gloves and decadent layers), amid historic architecture and a sprawling lawn beneath century-old trees—all within view of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.
Live Hot Jazz and dancing
Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra leads the program with a personally transcribed songbook of 1920s hot jazz for listening and dancing. The weekend also features vocalist Risa Branch, whose soulful vintage sound blends classic jazz with blues- and gospel-rooted swing, plus Roddy Caravella and the Canarsie Wobblers, a dance troupe channeling the rebellious energy of Roaring Twenties youth.
- A dance floor under the trees — with 1920s dance lessons and lighthearted Charleston contests on Saturday and Peabody contests on Sunday.
- Vintage shopping and portraits — with clothing vendors and artisans, on-the-spot Paper Moon photographs, and tintype portraits from the Penumbra Foundation.
- Food and drink — including a gourmet picnic market, a cocktail bar with warm handcrafted drinks like mulled wine, hot bourbon apple cider, premium wines and excellent alcohol free options as well.
- Classic lawn diversions — including croquet, and an antique 1920s automobile display.
- Family activities — with Kidland games and crafts, plus a Sunday Children's Parade for adult-supervised children ages 12 and under.
Tickets and visitor information
Tickets are on sale now. For tickets and the latest event details, visit jazzagelawnparty.com. Guests must reserve ferry transportation separately to reach Governors Island. The event welcomes all ages; guests must be 21 or older with valid identification to purchase alcohol. The experience is ADA compliant.
About Jazz Age Lawn Party
Jazz Age Lawn Party is New York City's original Prohibition-era-inspired gathering. Founded in 2005 and hosted by conductor, composer, musician and crooner Michael Arenella with His Dreamland Orchestra, the event brings the music, dance, fashion and social spirit of the 1920s to life on Governors Island. What began as a small gathering has become a beloved New York tradition attracting generations of time travelers from around the world!
Media Contact
Megan Wilson, Megan Wilson Public Relations, 1 9173705795, [email protected]
SOURCE Jazz Age Lawn Party
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