There are a lot of incredible events in Northwest Florida, but the Blue Angels Pensacola Beach Air Show is one of the best. The Blue Angels are the U.S. Navy's flight demonstration squadron. Since 1948, aviators from the Navy and Marines perform jaw-dropping flying aerobatic tricks. Because the Blue Angels home base is right here in Pensacola, their Pensacola Beach air show every summer is one of their biggest shows-- and it's this weekend! The Blue Angels are scheduled to fly both Friday, July 13th, and Saturday, July 14th, at 2 pm.
What makes the Blue Angels so cool?
The Blue Angels are the second oldest formal flying aerobatic team in the world, just behind Patrouille de France, which was established in 1931. Every year, the team tours the United States, performing both military and civilian air shows. Moreover, their mission is "to showcase the pride and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country through flight demonstrations and community outreach." With 70 shows at 34 different locations across the country, including the US Naval Academy graduation and even Disney World, an estimated 11 million spectators watch the Blue Angels each year.
Image Credit: @usnavyblueangels Instagram
Pensacola Air Shows
While the Blue Angels tour the country from March through November, Pensacola remains their home base. Lucky for us, they actually have two shows a year in Pensacola. This weekend, they have their Pensacola Beach Air Show. Here, spectators can watch from their boats in the Gulf of Mexico or on the beach. On November 2nd and 3rd, they will perform their annual Homecoming Show in Pensacola as well. Additionally, because the Blue Angels practice right here on the Gulf Coast, fans can watch their practices at NAS Pensacola from March through November. Correspondingly, the aviators on the team also host meet-and-greets at the National Aviation Museum in Pensacola as well.
Image Credit: @usnavyblueangels Instagram
If you're staying in Destin or 30A this weekend, the air show is just too great to pass up. With the Blue Angels Pensacola Beach Air Show just a quick car ride away, this is a fun family event you won't want to miss. Just don't forget your earplugs!