Spirit of '45: Living History Day & Swing Dance

Join us on Saturday, August 16, 2025, 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!

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!