Libraries, bookstores and literacy spaces throughout the USA have been hosting parties and themed events in 2025 in honor of The Great Gatsby's 100th anniversary. Just 50 years after our Library first opened it's doors, Charles Scribner's Sons published The Great Gatsby by American author F. Scott Fitzgerald, a novel that would transcend their biggest imaginations. Set in the Jazz Age on Long Island, The Great Gatsby depicts Nick Carraway's interactions with Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire looking to reunite with his former love, Daisy Buchanan.
Since it's publication on April 10, 1925, the novel has become a timeless classic of American fiction, inspiring other writers around the world, as well as film and theater. This year, from September 26 - October 17, 2025, Meadowridge Library will join the celebrations by hosting a series of events for all ages in a wide variety of styles.
Join us and experience the glamor and decadence of the world of The Great Gatsby.
This programming is made possible thanks to the Madison Public Library Foundation.
Upcoming Events
Friday, September 26 | 11am-12pm
Join Meadowridge Library Supervisor Yesianne Ramirez for Tertulia, a welcoming space for open, thoughtful conversations. Together, we'll explore ideas through literature, film, art, philosophy, poetry, history, and popular culture. Space is limited to 10 participants per session, and registration is required. Please review the conversation ground rules, you can find them on the registration form. These conversations are Spanish and English friendly.
Monday, September 29 | 5-5:45pm
In September, Meadowridge Book Club will be reading The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. A limited number of copies will be available at the branch several weeks before the event itself. Light refreshments will be provided.
TBD
Join us for a screening of The Great Gatsby film adaptation of 1974 directed by Jack Clayton and staring Francis Ford Coppola, Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. Screen time 149 min.
Saturday, October 4 | 1-3pm
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby by stepping into the culinary world of the roaring 20s. With the Jazz Age as a backdrop, author Veronica Hinke will take us through the dishes and drinks that graced the tables of Jay Gatsby’s lavish parties. Throughout the program, nibble on finger sandwiches, lemon cake, and other foods Gatsby served Daisy at afternoon tea in Nick’s cottage.
Saturday, October 11 | 10am-2pm
Come accompanied by a trusted group of friends to help you solve Gatsby's mystery. You will be a journalist on a secret mission, visiting Jay Gatsby's famous parties. Your mission? Discover who Gatsby really is! You'll have15 minutes in his study to discover clues during a fireworks display. Don't lose time and find out the truth before Gatsby catches you in the act!
Register for Escape Room in a timeslot between 10 am and 1:30pm. Come with a group of up to 5 people ages 8 and up.
Saturday, October 11 | 10am-2pm
While you wait your turn for the escape room, explore a variety of games which were popular in the 1920s: pick-up sticks, hopscotch, jacks, and more! Get crafty and create a flapper-inspired headband or fold a paper hat. All ages welcome and there's no advanced registration required.
Friday, October 17 | 6-7:45pm
Enter the Jazz Age at Meadowridge Library and enjoy music, mocktails, Gatsby trivia and other activities. The Library is celebrating 100 years of The Great Gatsby with a 1920s-themed "speakeasy" featuring music by The Neil Daily Quintet. Don't let it pass and come dressed in your best 20s costumes to enjoy an afternoon of Gatsby themed fun.
Book List
About the Presenters
Veronica Hinke is author of The Last Night on The Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining & Style; Titanic: The Official Cookbook; Harry Potter Afternoon Tea Magic; and The Great Gatsby Cooking and Entertaining.
The Neil Daily Quintet is a jazz ensemble rooted in tradition and driven by innovation. Featuring trumpet, saxophone, upright bass, guitar and drums, the group performs a wide-ranging repertoire from early jazz classics and standards to contemporary works and original compositions.