EVENT POSTPONED
We’ve decided to postpone our 1940s Hangar Fundraiser originally planned for May 29th to give this event the time and support it truly deserves. Thank you to everyone who has helped us build incredible momentum — we’re excited to regroup and bring this special celebration to life soon!
In the meantime, join us at our Wednesday chapter meetings or check out upcoming events like Honor the WASP and Girls in Aviation Day on September 20th.
WWII Hangar Party
A Night of Swing, History & Community
Join us for the first-ever WWII Hangar Party, a one-of-a-kind event bringing together aviation enthusiasts, veterans, WWII history buffs, the women in aviation community, swing dancers, and reenactors—all under one historic hangar. Hosted by Women in Aviation Chicago’s Leading Edge Chapter, this event is more than just a fundraiser; it's a celebration of community, history, and the golden age of aviation.
POSTPONED
Date: TBD
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: TBD
Help Us Make History
This is just the beginning! Our goal is to grow the WWII Hangar Party into an annual tradition, raising funds to support Women in Aviation Chicago’s Leading Edge Chapter and its mission to inspire and empower future aviators. Your attendance, participation, and enthusiasm will help make this event a lasting celebration of history, community, and aviation.
Get Involved
Want to support the event? We’re looking for sponsors, volunteers, and vintage aircraft owners to help bring this night to life. Reach out to chicagosleadingedge@gmail.com to get involved!
Mark your calendars, polish your dancing shoes, and get ready to step into the 1940s—we can’t wait to see you there!
WWII Silent
Auction
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Swing Dancers
Live 1940s
band
WWII Aviatrix Reenactor
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OUR BAND
Get ready to swing the night away with Shout Section Big Band at our 1940s Hangar Fundraiser! Known for bringing big band swing to life with energy and authenticity, Shout Section has entertained audiences across the Midwest, from city concerts and swing dances to high-profile events like the premiere of A League of Their Own. With a sound that rivals legendary orchestras and a roster of top Chicago musicians, this band will have you dancing all night long—just like in the golden age of swing!
OUR SWING DANCERS
Bringing vintage flair and fabulous footwork to the floor, RJ Ritter and Jessica—along with their team of experienced swing dancers—will transport you straight to the golden age of dance! Known for their electric performances and irresistible energy, this talented crew regularly lights up the stage at the historic ROXY Lockport, where swing is always in style.
With a deep love for live music and a passion for social dancing, RJ and Jessica have performed all over Chicagoland, dazzling crowds at special events, vintage dance nights, and celebrations of every kind. They’ve danced with Shout Section Big Band before and are thrilled to reunite for a night that promises high-flying lindy hops, smooth swing-outs, and more than a few show-stopping surprises. Whether you're an old pro or just tapping your toes, their infectious energy will have you itching to join in on the dance floor!
OUR WARBIRDS
Our 1940s Hangar Fundraiser wouldn’t be complete without the legendary aircraft that defined the era! We are thrilled to have an incredible lineup of historic warbirds flying in for the event, including the T-6 Texan, Stearman, Piper Cub, TBM Avenger, and T-28 Trojan. These aircraft played a crucial role in training pilots, supporting military operations, and shaping aviation history.
While we hope to see these stunning planes on the ramp, their attendance depends on weather and maintenance—after all, these warbirds have been soaring through the skies for decades! We extend our deepest gratitude to the generous pilots bringing these aircraft to our event, providing a spectacular backdrop and helping set the scene for a truly immersive 1940s experience. Be sure to check them out, snap some photos, and appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind these flying icons!
OUR LOOK BOOK
Dressing for our 1940s Hangar Fundraiser is easier than you think! Our 1940s Lookbook is here to help you create an authentic vintage look using pieces you may already own—no special shopping required. Inside, you'll find inspiration for men’s and women’s clothing, hairstyle tips, and makeup guides to capture the glamour and charm of the era. Whether it’s a classic suit and tie, a swing dress with victory rolls, or red lips and polished waves, this guide makes it simple to step into the past in style. Get ready to dance the night away looking like you just walked out of a wartime swing dance!
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THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS!
