The Best Southern California Air Shows to Attend This Year
Southern California is known for its sunny blue skies, making it the perfect place to check out a thrilling air show. From high-flying aerobatics to on-the-ground displays, SoCal is home to some of the best air shows on the west coast of the United States. This year, Southern California residents and visitors have a chance to see some of the most impressive aerial performances imaginable. There are plenty of opportunities to catch planes, helicopters, and other aircraft up close and personal.
Here are a few of the best Southern California air shows to check out this year:
Wings Over Camarillo Air Show
August 19-20, 2023 – Camarillo
This year’s “Wings Over Camarillo” air show will be put on by the Camarillo Wings Association with the help of volunteers from the Ventura County 99’s, the EAA Chapter 723, and the Southern California Wing of the Commemorative Air Force.
The huge Air Show features over 80 aircraft, including antique, experimental, and WWII fighters, bombers, and transports, performing several well-known aerobatic routines.
The planes, pilots, and crews are all accessible to the public during the air show. Make a day of it, explore the aircraft, snap pictures, and converse with the pilots and air show volunteers. This is a family-friendly annual event, and children five and under are free!
The MCAS Miramar Airshow
September 22-24, 2023 – Miramar, San Diego
The Miramar Airshow is an annual event at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. The three-day event is the biggest military air show in the country.
In addition to the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, visitors will be treated to an air show line-up that includes the Marine Corps’ F-35B display, the unusual Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration, the Air Force’s F-22 Raptor demonstration team, Aaron Fitzgerald flying the Red Bull Helicopter, a 5G Technology Expo, and more.
Great Pacific Airshow
September 29- October 1, 2023 – Huntington Beach
The Pacific Airshow is more than an average show. This grand celebration of aviation’s passion, patriotism, and extraordinary exploits combines the exhilarating thrill of sports, entertainment, art, and technology.
Over three days, the Airshow offers a jam-packed schedule of events, including over-the-water aerobatic displays from the world’s best display teams and VIP offerings. It also features live musical performances each night, thanks to the inclusion of the Afterburner Music Festival, a music festival on the beach. These special events are supported by the City of Huntington Beach, one of Southern California’s most exciting beachfront destinations.
Apple Valley Airshow
October 7, 2023 – Victorville
The San Bernardino County Department of Airports is excited to host the 20th Annual Apple Valley Airshow & NAPA Auto Parts Car Display on Saturday, October 7, 2023.
In addition to the air show, the event includes a car show, on-the-ground aircraft displays, a kids area, and a STEM Expo. The full line-up of performers is yet to be announced.
American Heroes Airshow
November 4, 2023 – Lakeview Terrace
The American Heroes Airshow is all about helicopters, particularly those used by emergency responders. With static displays and thrilling flying demonstrations, the American Heroes Air Show highlights the dynamic role of rotary-wing aviation in law enforcement, public safety, EMS/ENG, homeland security, and national defense.
Southern California is the perfect place to take in an exhilarating air show! With so many great options, you might find it challenging to choose just one. Do you have a favorite Southern California air show? Share any we missed in our Local Anchor Facebook group.
