Sock Hop and Living History Fair: 85th Anniversary of the Morro Bay Navy Base

The Morro Bay Navy Base turns 85 with a free 1940s Sock Hop and Living History Fair at the Veterans Memorial Building on Saturday, November 7, 1 to 4 PM.

The Central California Coast Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, with Rising Phoenix Community Organization, marks the 1941 founding of the Morro Bay Naval Amphibious Training Base, where tens of thousands of troops trained for the landings in Europe and the Pacific. Riptide Big Band plays swing for the dance floor, with live dance performances; World War II reenactors in period-accurate 1941 to 1945 attire work the room; historic military vehicles park outside for a close look; and local museums, historical societies, agencies, and civic groups fill the hall with exhibits on the region’s wartime years.

Admission is free and open to everyone. Dress 1940s if you like.

Where: Morro Bay Veterans Memorial Building, 209 Surf Street, Morro Bay
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026, 1:00 to 4:00 PM
Who: Central California Coast Chapter, Military Officers Association of America, with Rising Phoenix Community Organization
Cost: Free
Good to know: The same organizers screen Spielberg’s 1941 at the Bay Theatre on Monday, November 16, as a fundraiser.

Reserve a Spot

The 85th anniversary weekend is one of several history dates this fall; the Morro Bay events calendar has them all.