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An Unforgettable Evening

Centenary of Style

On Friday 25 October, Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel celebrated 100 years in true style – paying homage to the hotel’s rich and storied history.

Once upon a crisp October evening, the iconic Hyatt Hotel Canberra - a Park Hyatt Hotel, celebrated a century of timeless elegance. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the hotel’s iconic grandeur, over 600 excited guests, including local dignitaries and industry leaders, arrived in glamorous attire to commemorate this historic milestone.

Inside, a world of luxury unfolded. Soft candlelight danced across the room, illuminating the exquisite floral arrangements and shimmering chandeliers. Waiters stood to attention in classic black-tie attire with trays of Taittinger champagne and gourmet canapes. A jazz trio set the scene and the air was filled with scented Le Labo candles - a personalised gift from the New York perfumery to honour years of friendship between the two iconic brands.

As the night progressed guests were welcomed by General Manager, Michael Sarino, who spoke of the hotels rich and storied history and Hyatt’s commitment to honouring Hotel Canberra’s legacy into the future.

With formalities coming to a close, a breathtaking performance took center stage as the graceful aerialists performed to Lana Del Rey’s track Young and Beautiful, delighting guests with a champagne pour from high above, filling a spectacular 10-tier champagne tower.

Showcasing the beauty of the heritage-listed building, the styling was elegant and simple, letting the grand old dame's art deco architecture and sunken gardens shine. Fairy lines swung gently from the Chinese Elms in the Lavendar and Rose Courtyards, where guests mingled to soft acoustic and grazed on fresh seafood.

The night's highlight was undoubtedly the two-meter-tall croquembouche, a masterpiece of pastry artistry. As the pastry chefs carefully escorted the towering treat to the Tea Lounge, a collective gasp swept through the crowd as they then roared into a rendition of Happy Birthday.

As the night wore on, the dance floor came alive. The Baker Boys, a dynamic five-piece band, set the mood with their infectious energy. Guests swayed to the music and got lost in the moment. Pop-up cocktail bars, reminiscent of the roaring twenties, offered a tantalizing array of handcrafted drinks. Over 260 bottles of Robert Oatley Wine were drunk, 1800 oysters shucked, copious Martinis, Bellinis and whiskey cocktails poured and 4,000 canapes served. An outdoor photo booth captured the magic of the night, freezing moments in time for guests to cherish.

As the final notes of the band faded into the night, the guests departed, their hearts filled with joy and minds filled with memories of a truly unforgettable evening. Hyatt Hotel Canberra's centenary gala was more than a celebration: it was a testament to the hotel's enduring legacy, a fitting tribute to a landmark that has stood the test of time.

As the hotel embarks on its next chapter, it continues to inspire and captivate, a beacon of elegance and luxury in the heart of the nation’s capital city.

Please visit our Facebook Album to view more images of the night.