SKIRTS AHOY
LA Harbor International Film Festival (LAHIFF)
Celebrate the cinematic arts, the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the historic Battleship IOWA
Program C (USA, MGM, 1952, 109 min., dir. Sidney Lanfield)
It’s WWII and three young women eluding or contemplating marriage enlist in the Navy: elegant heiress Whitney Young (Esther Williams), fashion worker Una Yancy (Vivian Blaine) and bride jilted at the alter Mary Kate Yarborough (Joan Evans). They meet when they report for induction at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station and end up roommates. The training and discipline are challenging, however their greatest trouble isn’t long marches or several weeks in a small boat, but their love lives.
The frothy and fun musical, lyrics by Ralph Blane, music by Harry Warren, also echoes the sentiments of war and loss. Supporting cast includes Barry Sullivan, Keefe Brasselle, and the delightful DeMarco (singing) sisters. Special appearance by Billy Eckstine, popular night club singer of the era.
Sponsored by Pacific Battleship Center
Where
Battleship IOWA in the Port of Los Angeles
250 S. Harbor Blvd.
San Pedro, California 90731
Event will be held outdoors under a tent on the fantail (stern) of the ship
When
March 7th – 4 pm (over by @6:30 pm) board ship from 3:30 pm
Admission & Other Info
- Admission is FREE – Reservations requested. Please click here to RSVP (from Feb. 12. 2026)
- Benefits YWCA Harbor Area, Toberman Neighborhood Center, Harbor Interfaith Services
- Suggested donation – Bring non-perishable food items or new clothing in lieu of ticket purchase
- More information about LA Harbor International Film Festival (All programming announced in new year)
- Learn about Battleship IOWA
- Audience encouraged to dine in Downtown San Pedro and vicinity before or after the movie at Epicurean Sponsor establishments* and aboard Battleship IOWA at Vicky’s Doghouse Café
- Vicky’s will offer a special menu for the evening, to include gourmet hot dogs, popcorn, candy, soda, beer, wine
*Epicurean Sponsors (2025)
Niko’s Pizzeria, Wienerschnitzel, Big Nick’s, San Pedro Brewing Company, Rafaello’s Ristorante, The Sandwich Saloon, J. Trani Ristorante, Sacred Grounds, Think Café, Omelet & Waffle Shop, Compagnon Wine Bistro, Whale & Ale Gastropub, Vicky’s Doghouse Cafe
Parking
Please park in the lot adjacent to Battleship IOWA. Parking is free for the first hour, then $2.00 for every subsequent hour.
250 S. Harbor Blvd
San Pedro, CA 90731
Note: Cruise ship traffic may reduce the number of spots available. If the lot is full, alternative parking locations include:
- Maritime Museum lot (6th & Harbor, paid)
- 5th & Mesa St.
- Harbor Blvd across from the ship
- Topaz Building (between 5th & 6th St, paid)
