Sock Hop: 85th Anniversary of Morro Bay Navy Base

 

Step back into the 1940s and celebrate a milestone in Central Coast history!

The Central California Coast Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) in partnership with Rising Phoenix Community Organization invites the public to the 85th Anniversary of the Morro Bay Navy Base Sock Hop & Living History Fair on Saturday, November 7, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Morro Bay Veterans Hall (209 Surf Street).

This interactive event honors the deep military heritage of the region, commemorating the 1941 establishment of the Morro Bay Naval Amphibious Training Base, where tens of thousands of troops prepared for Europe Pacific Island invasions.

Event Highlights Include:

• World War II Living History Reenactors: Interact with passionate historical interpreters dressed in period-accurate 1941–1945 attire.
• Historic Military Vehicles: Get an up-close look at vintage vehicles from the era.
• Live Swing Band & Dancers: Kick up your heels at the 1940s-style Sock Hop featuring authentic swing music from Riptide Big Band and live dance performances.
• Historical Exhibits & Displays: Explore regional WWII history through curated displays hosted by local museums, historical societies, government agencies, and civic organizations.

Come enjoy an afternoon filled with music, nostalgia and community connection as we honor our nation's military legacy.

• When: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Where: Morro Bay Veterans Hall, 209 Surf Street, Morro Bay, CA
• Admission: Free & Open to the Community

 

Check out our other great event!

Movie Fundraiser Screening: Steven Spielberg’s 1941

Click HERE to learn more!

Join the California Central Coast Chapter of MOAA and the Rising Phoenix Community Organization for a special movie fundraiser screening of Steven Spielberg’s classic 1979 war comedy, 1941, at the historic Bay Theatre in downtown Morro Bay!

Co-written by Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, this star-studded comedy parodies the real-life post-Pearl Harbor panic in Southern California. The iconic ensemble cast features Dan Aykroyd, Ned Beatty, John Belushi, John Candy, Christopher Lee, Tim Matheson, Toshiro Mifune, Robert Stack, Nancy Allen, and Mickey Rourke in his feature film debut.

Come out for an evening of classic cinema, community, and laughs—all while supporting the programs and community efforts of our local MOAA chapter.

Event Details

• Date: Monday, November 16, 2026
• Location: Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd, Morro Bay, CA

Ticket Options 

VIP Experience ($25):

• 4:30 PM – Early Admission & Exclusive Wine and Cheese Social
• Includes premium event access and light refreshments prior to showtime.

General Admission ($15)

Schedule

• 4:30 PM – Early Admission & Exclusive Wine and Cheese Social
• 5:00 PM – Doors Open / General Admission Entry
• 5:30 PM – Movie Begins

Thanks to our participating nonprofits! 

 

Special thanks to the Cal Poly Swing Dance Club for bringing high-energy fun and dancers to the floor, and to the Central Coast Convoy for showcasing their impressive World War II military equipment displays!