The 2017 Cheltenham Jazz Festival was a thrilling mix of music, drinks and dancing – and the excitement was no more prominent than at the Ultimate House Party at The Lucky Onion’s No.131

Great British Life: The buzzing bar at Crazy EightsThe buzzing bar at Crazy Eights (Image: Archant)

The streets of Cheltenham come alive with music during the Cheltenham Jazz Festival and this year may have been the best so far. A highlight was the Ultimate House Party at The Lucky Onion’s No.131 which took place on Saturday 29th April.

Great British Life: Aisling Iris and bandAisling Iris and band (Image: Archant)

Every corner of No.131 on the Promenade has been meticulously thought out with art adorning the walls and clever design elements that exude a subtle luxury. While Prosecco was pouring, the night’s tone was set by saxophonist and all round cool guy Logan Richardson and friends playing a seductive jazz piece. People were tapping their feet while lounging on the stylish furniture.

Great British Life: Mica Paris and DJ Dick ButcherMica Paris and DJ Dick Butcher (Image: Archant)

Those with a dining ticket enjoyed a three course feast prepared by head chef Al Gleeson. There was a special cocktail menu available for the party with a particularly welcoming elderflower gin and tonic – made with Tanqueray gin and St Germain elderflower liqueur. Other cocktails included a Moscow Mule, an Espresso Martini and more concoctions.

Great British Life: Mr. Wilsons Second LinersMr. Wilsons Second Liners (Image: Archant)

No.131’s bar Crazy Eights was buzzing with excited guests as DJ Dick Butcher and Mica Paris, took to the decks. Playing 80s disco and soul classics, the crowd happily danced along while sipping cocktails. Meanwhile upstairs, the vintage style duo Caddick and Parkes performed a mix of classic and contemporary jazz and swing tunes.

Great British Life: Aisling Iris preparing for her setAisling Iris preparing for her set (Image: Archant)

Other musical performances included a DJ set by radio star Jo Whiley and musician Cerys Matthews who kept people on their feet with an eclectic mix of artists from The Who to Ray Charles. At the main bar, soulful singer Aisling Iris and her band performed some sultry songs, lifting the ambiance and creating an ‘impromptu’ feeling to the evening.

Great British Life: Crazy Eights barmen showing off their skillsCrazy Eights barmen showing off their skills (Image: Archant)

As Saturday night turned into Sunday morning, in marched 90s dance/New Orleans jazz fusion band Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners, dressed in full marching band garb and covered in LED lights. They were dancing on tables with drums banging and trombones playing contemporary songs with an old fashioned New Orleans spin. Everyone was up on their feet, dancing until well into the early hours. Now that’s how you throw a party!

Great British Life: Mr. Wilsons Second LinersMr. Wilsons Second Liners (Image: Archant)

Check out The Lucky Onion and No.131