Gatsby Picnic 2026
About this Event
Visit for more detailed information on the event!
The annual Gatsby Picnic will be held at HISTORY PARK in SAN JOSE on Sunday September 13th from 2pm to 7pm!
EARLYBIRD reduced price tickets are on sale now until July 18th! Tables and umbrella packs are not on sale yet, but we will inform all ticket holders and our mailing lists when that date is approaching!
The Gatsby Picnic is the Art Deco Society of California's annual 1920s and 1930s garden party and picnic, and is a day filled with glamour and charm! Bring your own picnic, elaborate or simple and join us for an afternoon of music, friendship and community.
Whether you wear true vintage, vintage reproductions, vintage inspired, self-made or make-do attire, all are welcome. We ask all of our guests to dress in a reasonable daywear reminiscent of the era. If you would like some inspiration, please check out our "How to Gatsby" pages on our website: https://gatsbypicnic.com/
Wear your favorite summer suit, blazer or vest with light trousers. Wear a tie! Add a straw boater or Panama hat -- it is wonderful to have your own shade!
Or, think garden party dresses in summer colors;1920s or 1930s-style inspired daywear in light linen or chiffon. (Please save your formal beaded evening wear, feather boas, or flapper costumes for a future event.) For shade, wear a large-brimmed hat, or a small cloche with a parasol!
Please: no jeans, shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts, tennis shoes, or flip flops allowed, as modern casual clothing breaks the magic spell of the Gatsby Picnic. Please make sure to inform all of your guests.
Instead… BE CREATIVE AND DRESS UP WITH VINTAGE STYLE!
BECOME A MEMBER
Reminder: Active ADSC members receive special discounts, early access to high demand items like reserved tables, and exclusive offers like Early Entry Passes. We check member purchases against our active member database, so please make sure your membership is current.
If you'd like to renew or become a new member, please go to our membership portal by clicking on this link.
PICNIC IN STYLE
Picnics can be intimate or elaborate affairs. For a simple picnic: bring sandwiches wrapped in wax paper, fruit and dessert in a basket. Serve beverages in metal cups, glass bottles, a Thermos or flask. Bring a blanket for seating on the lawn. Plastic coolers and other modern gear should be avoided or just covered with a tablecloth or blanket. For a fancy picnic: include china, Depression glass, silver champagne buckets, flatware and flowers. Bring vintage style folding chairs with your Early Entry Pass (EEP) or reserve a table with umbrella and linens. An Early Entry Pass (EEP) is recommended for larger or more elaborate picnics, as transport from the front gate is limited. $60 per car (available for ADSC members only).
PARKING
Ample parking is available outside the park, a short flat walk to the entrance. Parking fees are handled by the City of San Jose and History Park so we will not be pre-selling parking spots.
MASS TRANSIT
The VTA Route 73 bus has a stop at the corner of Phelan Avenue & Senter Road. It is a short walk from the bus stop to the History Park gate. The park is about a 30-35 minute bus ride from both Caltrain and BART with one bus transfer.
NOTE:
• Please leave clear pathways between picnics and tables.
• No tickets will be available at the door.
• No dressing in the restrooms - there will be tents near the restrooms for your convenience.
• Entry into the event requires an Eventbrite ticket/code that will be scanned.
• Please list the names of all of your guests and their contact info (email address) when you purchase your tickets.
• If you bring a pop up canopy, the size is limited to 10' x 10' unless approved by the event organizers ahead of time.
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The last date to purchase tickets is Saturday, September 12th, 2026 - up to 11:59 pm. Early Entry passes will not be sold after August 31st. Table Sales end on August 31st.
NO TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Getting Ready for the Gatsby Picnic
Do you have to be an Art Deco Society California member to get in?
We welcome both members and non-members to attend the Picnic. However, only ADSC members are eligible to purchase Early Entry Passes. Members also receive discounted tickets to the event. If you're not a member please Click here to find instructions on joining. If you become inspired to join us during the event, visit the Welcome Table for information about membership.
Please note: Purchases will be checked against our membership database. Non-members purchasing member tickets will be charged the full price.
What is the deadline for advance ticket sales?
The last date to purchase tickets is Saturday, September 12th, up to 11:59 pm. Click the Tickets button above to purchase tickets.
The Deadline for Early Entry tickets Is August 31st at 11:59 pm. Your credentials will be emailed to you.
The Deadline for reserving tables with umbrellas is August 31st.
I don't have a PayPal account; how do I buy tickets?
Eventbrite accepts payment with your credit card, Google Pay, or PayPal.
How will I receive my tickets?
You will receive your tickets in an email from Eventbrite. Bring your cell phone or print out your ticket with the code for entry. You might also wish to take a photo of your ticket code and show the code at the door if cell coverage is poor. All tickets will be scanned for admission. If you do not bring your printed ticket or phone, you may have to wait in line to have your name checked on a list.
Can I buy tickets for each person in my party, even if we arrive separately?
Yes, if you want to purchase tickets for other people in your party, please include their name and contact info when you place your order. Names of all guests will be required when you purchase your tickets.
Please note: Different membership levels will have different ticket limits. If you are a member purchasing for others, you may need to purchase full priced tickets.
How do I get a table? What about just a chair and umbrella?
The Tickets page has information about buying a table, umbrella, and chairs. Table and umbrella sales end by August 31st or while supplies last. Please note: tables, chairs, and umbrellas sell out quickly, so please make sure to reserve early.
Can I choose which table I buy?
Tables are able to be reserved by table location.
Can I buy individual seats at a table?
Yes, starting this year we are testing the sale of individual seats on a limited basis. We may expand the number of individual seats based on sales.
If I purchase a table, do I still have to pay for an individual ticket?
Yes, table charges and umbrella packs (extras) are in addition to the ticket price. Everyone seated at a table needs to have a ticket.
How can I volunteer?
We would love your help! The Gatsby Picnic would not be possible without our many wonderful volunteers, and they are provided with complimentary admission. Please email [email protected] to put your name on the list should any volunteer spots open up. Volunteer spots are limited, so get your request in soon!
Day of Gatsby Picnic
ENTRANCE
All tickets are sold through Eventbrite. After you have placed your order you will receive your tickets via email. You will be asked to show the ticket code that will be scanned for entry. You may bring your phone with your confirmation code.
When you arrive, you should stand in line to be checked in. If you have any questions please ask the check-in person at the gate.
If you forget your ticket, a check-in person at the gate line will assist you.
What do I do if I have purchased an Early Entry Pass (EEP)?
(Please note: unlike prior years, EEPs are available to ADSC members only)
Please bring either the early entry pass that is emailed to you on your phone or a printout. Please also have your event tickets ready to scan. ALL PEOPLE IN THE VEHICLE MUST HAVE TICKETS. You will be given a ticket to display on your vehicle dashboard for the entire time that your car is inside the park.
Early entry will begin at noon! The car queue will be released in groups. PLEASE KEEP YOUR VEHICLE ON THE PAVED ROAD AT ALL TIMES. Volunteers will direct you to drop off locations. Unload picnic items by the side of the road; do not attempt to drive to a site on the lawn.
If you are bringing heavy items, please consider the means to transport those from the drop-off to your picnic site. To ensure all early entrants have equal time to unload, we ask that you strive to unload your contents within 15 minutes. To expedite the process, volunteers may assist with unloading at the drop off site. You may want to leave a helper with your picnic items. Please make sure everyone has proof of valid admission (ticket or phone) with them at all times.
SPEED LIMIT AT HISTORY PARK: 5 MPH - Vintage autos have the right of way.
After you have unloaded the contents, drive your vehicle to the parking lot where you entered. At the end of the day, when you retrieve your picnic supplies, the vehicle must remain on paved roads and cannot be driven on the lawn. Volunteers will be present to facilitate the exodus. All cars must depart by 8 pm.
GUESTS WITH PHYSICAL NEEDS
You may drive your car toward the entrance, and leave your supplies near the front entrance; there will be plenty of volunteers to help you unload your picnic. The driver can look for parking and return to their supplies. It is a short flat walk from the entrance to the picnic areas.
We also recommend, if you have a large picnic, to purchase an Early Entry Pass (members only). You may drive directly onto the grounds, drop off your supplies (do not set up or look for a perfect spot, just drop off quickly) and drive to the back lot. You may ask a volunteer to help you move your picnic to your spot.
If you need additional assistance please contact [email protected]
Can I buy tickets at the gate?
NO TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR.
Are children welcome?
Children are always welcome at the Gatsby Picnic. Children must be supervised at all times, as there are moving vehicles driving on the paved roads all day. Please also do not allow your young child on the dance floor unsupervised.
Can I bring my dog or other pet?
No aminals are allowed. Service animals for those with disabilities are the only exceptions.
Is there a discount if I arrive late/leave early?
There are no discounts for early or late arrival.
Where do I park?
If you can, please carpool or use a rideshare. There is a parking lot operated by History Park. It is about a 1100 ft (0.2 mile) walk from the parking lot to the main picnic area.
Who do the vintage cars belong to?
History Park is a working museum. The automobiles on display are privately owned by ADSC members and History Park, and many are museum quality. Please do not touch the vintage vehicles and when taking photos, please pose in front of the car—never on the car or in the car. Please click here if you would like to bring your Vintage Automobile.
Where can I smoke?
There is no smoking on the grounds, and it is subject to a $600 fine and removal from the event.
Where is lost and found?
Lost and found will be located at the front gate. Lost and found items will be kept safe by a board member if not claimed. You can contact the ADSC post-event if you are looking for an item.
Where are the restrooms?
Portable toilets are located near the picnic and a volunteer can direct you to them.
Please note: Guests are not allowed to dress or bathe in any of the restrooms - there will be tents for your convenience.
Are there any places I may NOT set up my picnic?
We have the entire park, but we suggest setting up your picnic near the main event to join in the festivities and take in the entire immersive event.
Where do I pick-up my umbrella & chairs (Umbrella Pack) that I ordered in advance?
The umbrella packs will be located conspicuously and labeled with the renter's name. You may move the umbrella and chairs to your desired picnic area; note, they are weighted umbrellas. If you can, kindly return them to the original area after the event.
How do I find my reserved table ?
Tables will be identified with the name of the person who placed the order. Volunteers will assist you in finding your table location.
No one seems to be sitting at a table, is it okay if I sit down for a little while?
No, we are sorry but those are not “open tables.” All tables are reserved in advance and belong to the people who have paid for them. There is no opportunity to purchase seating on the day of the event.
Is there anywhere else I can sit?
There are benches on the grounds. We encourage and expect people to provide their own seating, either by reserving them in advance or bringing their own chairs or blankets and pillows.
Can anyone dance on the dance floor, or just pros?
The dance floor is for everyone! You are encouraged to dance and have fun. Please consider non-slip dance shoes. If you are not dancing please do not stand on the dance floor. Parents, please keep children in check and respect the dancers. The dance floor is for dancing and not a playground. We want to be sure it's safe for everyone!
Who can participate in the contests?
Anyone may enter the contests. There is no signup or fee. Contest time is listed in the printed program.
Is food available at the event?
Our guests bring their own food and drink.
Can we bring glass bottles?
Plastic would not be period inspired, so you are encouraged to bring glass bottles. Please do dispose of them properly or carry them out. Be careful with corks and bottle caps as they can harm the lawnmowers.
May we take photographs?
Yes, absolutely! If you post on social media, please tag them as #GatsbyPicnic
Will there be a Gatsby Picnic next year? Do you know the date?
The Gatsby Picnic is always at History Park and is always on the second Sunday in September.
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GATSBY PICNIC CODE OF CONDUCT:
Our Cultural Values
The Art Deco Society of California (ADSC) is dedicated to providing spaces for positive social engagement, rekindling the cordiality of another era.
To this end, we strive to create a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion, or personal style. In fact, we simply do not tolerate harassment in any form of participants, guests, volunteers, vendors, and contractors, either at our hosted and sponsored activities, or online via social media channels, including comments and direct messaging. This policy applies to ADSC Board members, volunteers, performers, vendors, contractors and any of their staff, as well as to ADSC members or members of the public who attend our events.
Be Respectful.
Harassment and other code of conduct violations reduce the value of our event for everyone. We want you to be happy at our event. People like you make our events a better place.
Harassment is legally defined as repetitive and intentional negative attention. It includes, but is not limited to:
- Unwelcome comments on an individual's perceived gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion, or personal style, including tattoos.
- Deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, or disseminating a person’s information, including online handles, for others to intimidate (i.e. “doxing”).
- Unwelcome photography or recording
- Sustained disruption of lectures, presentations, or performances.
- Inappropriate or unwelcome sexual, physical, verbal contact / attention at events or online.
- Appropriation of any religious or sacred dress and/or mocking of minorities, cultures, and marginalized people through costume, gestures, symbols, and language. Choices in attire must be guided by ADSC’s mission to appreciate and educate when historically recreating this era; any deemed offensive, whether intentional or not, will not be tolerated.
- Use of symbols, regardless of historical accuracy, that are currently viewed as symbols of hate.
- Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior.
We Really Mean It.
Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior will comply immediately. This is a society in which we value good manners and it is expected that all members be quick to apologize and make amends.
If any person or group engages in harassing behavior, event organizers, ADSC board members, and security reserve the right to take any actions deemed necessary to keep the event a welcoming and harassment-free environment for all participants. These actions may include a verbal warning to the offender and/or expulsion from the event at the request of event organizers, ADSC board members, security personnel on duty, or the local police with no refund offered or provided.
If any participant is reported, warned, or expelled from an event for harassing behavior, documentation of such behavior will be subject to a review of their “good standing” membership status by the Board with an option to revoke their membership temporarily or permanently, and/or bar them from attending or participating in future ADSC events. The choice of action and level of accountability may be guided further by State, City, or private venue policies the ADSC is required to uphold, including those of the ADSC’s DEI Committee.
Participants must abide by these rules at all event venues, event-related social activities, and online forums.
If You Have a Problem:
You have a right to be at our events, and to be treated with respect and kindness. You have a responsibility to treat others with respect and kindness.
If someone makes you or anyone else feel unsafe or unwelcome, please report it as soon as possible in person, or by emailing [email protected]. ADSC board members are present at every event and are there to assist you. If you cannot identify a board member please seek the person who checked you in to the event, as they will be able to assist and locate a board member promptly.
Anonymous Reports: At this time, we are not able to accept anonymous reports or take any action based solely on such information. ADSC will keep your name and personal information confidential.
NOTE: The ADSC does not have jurisdiction over non-ADSC event attendees at larger events and public venues (museums, bars, restaurants, theaters, public parks, etc.), especially at “ADSC Goes To” events. If harassing behavior occurs at an “ADSC Goes To” event, participants will need to contact local security for the event. ADSC board members and event organizers will do our best to help facilitate your report upon request. Many times at these larger events, the public may take photos without asking. If this happens and makes an individual uncomfortable, the ADSC board and event organizers will support you and ask the offending individuals to please ask before taking photographs. The ADSC board members and event organizers will be happy to help you contact local law enforcement, engage local support services, provide escorts, or otherwise assist you in upholding our values for the duration of the event. We work together to create safe and welcoming environments. We value you and want to ensure a positive environment and uplifting experience for everyone.
Where is it happening?
USD 28.52 to USD 71.21
