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The Brown Hotel turns 100

Turn back the clock to the Roaring 1920s in celebration of a Louisville landmark.

The Brown Hotel marquee, as shown in 1924.

The Brown Hotel marquee as it appeared in 1924.

Courtesy: Archives & Special Collections, University of Louisville (ULPA CS_055306)

Picture this — you’re dressed to the nines, trying your best to look like Gloria Swanson or Douglas Fairbanks. You’ve arrived at the corner of 4th Street and Broadway in downtown Louisville, ready to indulge in an evening of drinks, music, dancing, and dinner.

What year is it, 1923? No — try 2023.

The Brown Hotel is celebrating its 100th birthday later this month — in some style. The hotel is set to host a roaring gala called, “The Brown Hotel: Celebrating 100 Years of Memories” from 6 to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 25, featuring a four-course meal with drinks and dancing.

The Brown is encouraging guests to dress in 1920s-style fashions for the event, which will include prizes for the best-dressed. You know what that means — start digging through your great-grandma’s closet for her favorite straight skirt, cloche hat, and pearl necklace.

Light-colored building with a red awning reading "The Brown"

The marquee at The Brown Hotel as it appears today. The hotel houses 294 guests rooms and suites.

Photo by The Brown Hotel

It’ll be the celebration of a Derby City landmark — a local institution steeped in history and tradition, but also an example modern excellence.

Tickets are available at $100 per person, and there’s a special room rate of $99 that evening if you’re up for the full Brown experience — just don’t forget the hot brown to boot.

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