Join us on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 2:00PM – 10:00PM at History Park as History San José and Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive Bay Area hosts the Spirit of ’45 Living History Day and Big Band Swing Dance!
Spirit of ‘45 is observed on the second weekend in August, coinciding with President Truman’s announcement that World War II was over. The event captures the war and home front experience with exhibits and interactive activities for all ages including live big band music, swing dancing (and dance lessons), a WWII tent city, vintage cars, a fashion show, 1940s era children’s games, trolley rides, and open historic buildings. The day climaxes with President Truman’s announcement, a reenactment of the famous Times Square kiss, and a homecoming victory parade.
As the sun goes down, the victory celebration continues as History Park transforms into a USO-style swing dance under the glow of the Electric Light Tower. The sounds of the 19-piece big band, The Swing Solution, will have you jump and jive to the sounds of the 1940s. This event is fun for the whole family and a perfect excuse to dress up for a date night. We hope to see you there!
Living History Day
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Take a trip back in time as the 14-acre History Park is transported to the 1940s with live swing music, a vintage car show, a WWII Tent City, Victory parade, food trucks, and activities for the whole family.
Fun for the kids: try your hand at breaking a code or going through an agility course. Learn how to care for the wounded as a junior nurse. Help the war effort by joining the women’s land army or learning about canning fruit.
Fun for the kids at heart: enjoy vintage vehicles and get amazing pictures in your best vintage fits. Ride our historic trolley and explore our permanent exhibits.
Living History: meet living World War II veterans and Rosies, enter real historic homes from around the valley, and learn about the past from costumed guides.
Big Band Concert & Swing Dance
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Dance under lights at History Park to the tunes of the big band era. Dance in the streets and eat delicious food from food trucks!
Lessons included: don’t know how to swing dance yet? No worries! An instructor will show you the moves before the band begins.
Live music: grab a beverage and enjoy the sounds of The Swing Solution, a 19-piece band.
Period attire encouraged!
