The lively sounds of Glen Miller and Benny Goodman fill the air as a sea of khaki and olive green uniforms twirl on the dance floor. The cavernous hall is buzzing with conversation, dancing and joviality. You step outside to catch your breath from all of the festivities. The roar of plane engines cut through the music as it passes by overhead. Welcome to the wartime 1940s — in 2018.

History of hangar dances and dance halls

During the first few weeks following the outbreak of World War II, theaters and dance halls were shuttered. As the new normal settled in, venues began to reopen. As the dance halls slowly came back to life, their popularity soared. Military personnel stationed from all over the world and local citizens would pack onto the dance floor, and leave the doldrums and austerity of the war at the door.

The height of the big band and swing era ushered in new dance crazes that spread throughout the U.K. and Europe. The Lindy Hop, Swing Dance, Jitterbug and the Jive were often featured dances. For Americans stationed in Europe, it was often a bittersweet reminder of home.

Dance the night away in May

Hangar dances have experiences a surge in popularity in recent years, so perfect those victory curls and dust off your sing dance moves! RAF Alconbury will be hosting a free hangar dance on Saturday, May 12 at nearby Hangar 92 on RAF Molesworth. Complete with vintage cars, food, drinks, plenty of music and dancing, a vintage flyover (weather permitting) and capping the night with fireworks, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

Although admission is free, tickets are required for entry. You can pick up your free tickets at the RAF Alconbury ITT office, Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/RAFAlconburyFSS or call (44) 01480-843704.