Blue Angels return to Jacksonville — Here is everything you need to know

Ervin Shkulaku — October 16, 2026 — The skies over Jacksonville are coming alive as the U.S. Navy’s famous Blue Angels prepare for one of Northeast Florida’s most anticipated events of the year.

The 2026 NAS Jacksonville Air Show will take place on Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, bringing spectacular military aviation demonstrations, high-speed aerial maneuvers and thousands of visitors to the First Coast.

The best part? Admission and parking are completely free.

Residents around Jacksonville have already been hearing the roar of military jets as pilots conduct practice flights ahead of the weekend’s performances.

Friday, October 16, is the official practice day, with access limited to authorized base personnel, their guests and participating local schoolchildren.

The public air show officially begins Saturday morning.

When Will the Blue Angels Perform?

The gates will open at 9:00 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with aerial performances beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The Blue Angels are scheduled to take to the skies at approximately 3:00 p.m. each day, serving as the grand finale.

Their performance will feature the precision flying, close formations and high-speed maneuvers that have made the Navy’s demonstration team famous around the world.

Weather conditions could affect the schedule or the type of maneuvers performed.

The Air Force Thunderbirds Are Also Coming

This year’s event will be especially exciting because the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will also participate, marking their first appearance at the NAS Jacksonville Air Show.

The Thunderbirds are internationally recognized for their precision flying and impressive aerial formations.

Visitors will also see demonstrations involving the massive C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft, along with performances by civilian aerobatic pilots.

More than a dozen military and civilian aircraft will be available for visitors to view on the ground.

Free Admission and Parking

The event will be held at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, located at 6801 Roosevelt Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32212.

No tickets are required for general admission, and parking is free.

Visitors aged 18 and older must bring an acceptable physical government-issued photo identification document to enter the military installation. Foreign nationals should bring their passports, while lawful permanent residents may present their green cards.

Visitors will be directed to designated entry gates and parking areas.

Expect Heavy Traffic

Organizers anticipate approximately 300,000 visitors throughout the weekend.

Authorities warn that traffic around Roosevelt Boulevard and the naval base could become extremely congested.

After the performances, it could take up to two hours for vehicles to exit the installation.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and follow traffic instructions from police and military personnel.

Activities for Families

In addition to the aircraft performances, the event will feature food vendors, aviation exhibits and activities for children.

A special Kids Zone will offer games, inflatable attractions, face painting and educational STEM activities.

Although general admission is free, some attractions, premium seating areas and food purchases require payment.

Organizers recommend bringing cash for certain activities.

Visitors should also prepare for loud jet engines, particularly families attending with young children. Ear protection, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are strongly recommended.

A Special Homecoming for the Blue Angels

NAS Jacksonville holds a special place in aviation history as the birthplace of the Blue Angels, which were established in 1946.

Their return to Jacksonville is more than an air show. It is a celebration of naval aviation, military service and the city’s longstanding connection to the U.S. Navy.

For aviation enthusiasts and families across Northeast Florida, this weekend offers a rare opportunity to watch two of America’s most celebrated military flight demonstration teams.

The NAS Jacksonville Air Show takes place October 17–18, with free admission, free parking and Blue Angels performances scheduled for 3:00 p.m. each day.

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