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step back in time

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.

May 29, 2025

Date: Thursday, May 29th
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Revv Aviation Hangar, Aurora, IL

​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

Image by Todd Trapani

Live 1940s

band

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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 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!

1940s lookbook outfit inspiration women in aviation
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1940s lookbook outfit inspiration women in aviation wardrobe men
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THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS!

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Chicago's Leading Edge

We are dedicated to providing networking, education, mentoring and scholarship opportunities for women (and men) pursuing aviation careers in the Chicago & Illinois. 

Get Monthly Updates

Chicago’s Leading Edge Chapter was founded in October, 2009 serving the Chicagoland area. We are a qualified 501(c)(3) and a Chapter of Women in Aviation International.

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