The Hilo Woman’s Club is traveling back in time to the 1950s for a night at the sock hop.
The annual fall fundraiser, “Rock Around the Clock Sock Hop Dance Party,” invites guests to find their best ’50s-era attire and step into the past for a night of dancing and nostalgia with plenty of classic hits from Jackie Gomes and the Atypical Band.
The Hilo Woman’s Club, or HWC, hosts a fall fundraiser every year with rotating themes like Oktoberfest, Spooktoberfest and a Hoedown Country Dance. However, the club is bringing back the Sock Hop for the second year in a row after it was a huge success last year.
“The Rock Around the Clock Sock Hop is a celebration of music, fellowship and community spirit while highlighting the vibrant energy that makes the Hilo Woman’s Club so special,” said past president Beverly Heikes. “It made perfect sense to recreate that excitement again this year and build on that positive momentum.”
Jackie Gomes and the Atypical Band will be keeping the energy high and upbeat with “oldies but goodies” and tunes that will bring everyone to the dance floor. For those who want to show off their moves, or learn a few new ones, there will be plenty of opportunities to pick up some ’50s-style dance steps.
Reminiscent of the iconic 1950s-style diner, HWC will be serving a light meal that will include burgers, root beer floats and nostalgic treats.
There also will be a dedicated photo area for guests to capture fun memories with friends and family.
“We’re expecting a great turnout, but we still have space available for more attendees to join in on the joyful and nostalgic event,” Heikes said. “We hope to see everyone out there on the dance floor.”
The Rock Around the Clock Sock Hop will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, at the HWC clubhouse at 7 Lele St. Tickets are $25, and all proceeds from sales and other donations will go directly to the HWC’s scholarship program and Community Donation Project Fund.
Originally established in 1953, the HWC scholarship program typically awards $1,000 scholarships to a few eligible high school students every year, although in 2023, the club was able to give $2,000 scholarships to three students after a successful year of fundraising.
“This year, we are aiming to duplicate that achievement and, based on our fundraising results, potentially award even more scholarships to continue making a significant impact in the lives of students,” Heikes said.
Scholarship packets are being distributed to local high schools and colleges and must be completed, submitted, and postmarked by the Feb. 21, 2025, deadline. The application and eligibility criteria can be found at tinyurl.com/hilowcscholar.
After the Sock Hop, HWC will host its annual Rummage Sale on Saturday, Nov. 16, followed by the “Carols of Christmas” Holiday Concert featuring Hilo’s ‘Apapane Rising String Quartet on Saturday, Dec. 7.
According to Heikes, the club offers year-round membership enrollment to anyone passionate about service, working as a team and contributing positive change to the community.
To purchase tickets for the Sock Hop or for more information about HWC memberships and future events, call (808) 935-9838 or visit hilowomansclub.com.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
