Historic Bethlehem to host 1920s-themed Bootlegger’s Ball at Hotel Bethlehem

Hotel Bethlehem event Hotel Bethlehem event
Hotel Bethlehem event (Courtesy: Chris Fiegel)

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Flappers, fedoras and jazz will take over Historic Hotel Bethlehem as Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites (HBMS) and the hotel host the Bootlegger’s Ball, a 1920s-themed celebration of music, food and dancing.

The event, set for Oct. 23 from 6 to 10 p.m., aims to transport guests back to the glamour and decadence of the Jazz Age. Tickets are $99, or $85 for HBMS members, and are available at historicbethlehem.org.

Hotel Bethlehem, built in 1922, will transform into a roaring speakeasy for the evening, complete with Prohibition-era cocktails and a menu inspired by the classics of the era — from canapés to deviled eggs. Entertainment will feature Drew Nugent and the Midnight Society, an award-winning jazz ensemble known for their authentic 1920s sound and vaudeville flair.

Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their finest vintage attire, with prizes awarded for Best Dressed Flapper, Best Dressed Dapper and Best Dressed Couple/Group. Organizers also hinted at surprise elements throughout the night.

Each ticket includes event admission, food and two bar tickets, with additional drinks available for purchase. Proceeds from the evening will benefit HBMS’s ongoing historic preservation and community education programs.

For those who want to make a full night of it, Historic Hotel Bethlehem is offering a $229 room rate (normally $269) for attendees. Reservations can be made by calling 844-282-9706.