COLUMBIA — Friends of Columbia State Historic Park will celebrate Columbia’s 69th year as a California State Park by hosting the 20th annual Big Band Street Dance event on Main Street in Columbia on Saturday, July 19, from 6 to 10 p.m.

 Admission is free and 1940s and 1950s costumes are encouraged.

At 11 a.m. take a free tour of town with park aide Sandra Walker who will focus on life in Columbia during the 1940s. Throughout the day photo displays will liven the streets and museum depicting various buildings during that time period. 

A special guest band will open the evening festivities at 6 p.m. and Rod Harris & the Kicks and the Columbia College Big Band will perform music from the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s beginning at 7:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for best dancers and best 40s costumes. A dessert auction will also be featured with selections from Columbia’s concessionaires and other local businesses. Food and refreshments, including a beer garden, will be available all evening for purchase.

New for this year is VIP Table Seating. Enjoy the festivities from your private table at $15 per person or $50 per table. VIP tables include a complimentary bottle of Champagne. Reservations can made at 209.588.0595.

Although admission is free, donations to Friends of Columbia to support educational and historical programs are greatly appreciated. Invite your friends and family to this fabulous evening of nostalgia and fun. Bring lawn chairs and your dancing shoes to fully enjoy this classic event! 

For more details contact the Columbia State Historic Park office at 209.588.9128.