California International Airshow in Salinas Municipal Airport claims to be the Golden State's most successful event. The event gathers 40,000 to 50,000 spectators annually over a weekend in early October. The Airshow showcases a wide range of military and civilian jets, promising a fun, thrilling, and educational getaway suitable for the whole family.
Schedule of the Air Show
AirShows are scheduled for each day at 11:30 am. The US Air Force Thunderbirds and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds will headline the list of performers with the mighty F-16 Fighting Falcon. This year's show will be headlined by "Two Jet Teams" alongside the thrilling "Wall of Fire." The USAF Thunderbirds will showcase the precision of the United States Air Force with six F16 Fighting Falcons, while The Patriots Jet Team, the sole civilian Jet Team in America, will fly six L-39s. The audience can also experience the popular "Wall of Fire" returning, adding to the event's excitement.
Activities
This year's airshow promises to be exceptional, featuring top civilian and military performers from across North America. For the first time in Salinas, the KC135 Stratotanker refueling demonstration will be showcased alongside static airplanes, exhibits, and food booths on the field. Visitors can explore the Chevron STEM Zone and educational exhibits from NASA and the Naval Postgraduate School and indulge in the fun-filled Carl's Jr. Kid's Zone.
Maverick's Lounge (September 27, 2024)
The exceptional culinary event highlights the talents of the area's finest chefs, offering wine, spirit, and brew tastings alongside a hosted bar. Guests at Maverick's Lounge can enjoy a special "Twilight Airshow" featuring top civilian and military performers. It will be followed by a spectacular Fireworks Extravaganza and the thrilling "Wall of Fire" display. The evening concludes with music for dancing "under the stars." Maverick's Lounge is available for $250.00 with exclusive amenities. The event will run from 5 pm to 10:30 pm.
Tickets & Location
General Admission offers four options priced from $20.00 to $25.00, including entry but no seating. Flight Line Villa provides six options priced from $45.00 to $625.00, with admission and access to the private Flight Line Villa area, offering tables for eight or individual seats with shaded tables and food/drink options. Individual Box Seats offer eight options from $15.00 to $70.00, including admission and reserved seating right on the flight line. Admission is free for kids aged five and under and for active military personnel possessing a valid ID. The event is held at Salinas Municipal Airport, 3 miles (5 km) from Salinas.
