Spirit of ’45 Celebrates with Music, Dance and Film

If you miss the ‘40s and have been waiting for a ‘40s revival, this week brings back some of the music, styles and memories.

The Veterans Memorial Foundation is celebrating “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive!” week starting today.

The celebration week that lasts from August 4 to 12 includes events throughout the week such as a celebration day, dance, film festival and ballgame.

Join the Veterans Memorial Foundation today from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the Spirit of ’45 day at the History Park, 635 Phelan Ave., San Jose. When you arrive at the History Park, you may think you’ve gone through a time warp into the past.

There will be live ‘40s music, swing dancing, a fashion show, stations for ‘40s hairdos and makeup and a memorabilia sale. Vintage cars will be shown off in the car show and kids will find many activities to fill their days. Admission is $5 and city parking is $6.

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down. From 7 to 10 p.m. the community will dance the night away in celebration of the U.S. Coast Guard’s birthday under the stars.

Saturday is just the start. All next week there will be an “Unsung Heroes Film Festival,” featuring films highlighting the World War II experience. Films will be shown at 7 p.m. in the Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Ave., San Jose. Admission costs $2 and parking is free.

To end the week of celebrations, the foundation invites the community to grab some peanuts and Cracker Jacks at the Spirit of ’45 ballgame. The San Jose Giants will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Municipal Stadium with post-game fireworks. Tickets cost $5 if purchased at a prior event and $10 at the stadium.