The Navy Blue Angels are headlining the
15th Annual Bethpage Airshow at Jones Beach for 2018.
Check out the new F-22 Raptor, the Air Force's newest fighter aircraft and the Royal Canadian Airforce Snowbirds in this year's show PLUS the return of world-renowned civilian pilot Sean D. Tucker
Pack a picnic lunch or enjoy some of the awesome food on site. Head down early to Jones Beach on Saturday 5/26th and Sunday 5/27th to join 200,000 other people as they walk the two mile boardwalk, picnic in the sand, and watch the airshow. See Military performances by the 106th Air National Guard Rescue Wing, the U.S Navy Blue Angels, an F-22 Raptor, the Golden Knights, and the Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds. There will also be civilian performances from the American Airpower Museum's Warbirds, David Windmiller, the Geico Skytypers, John Klatt Airshows-Jack Links' Screamin Sasquatch, Matt Chapman, Sean Tucker, and Farmingdale State College of Aviation's Flying Rams.
Try to get there before 10-11am, as the lot may fill up quickly. Admission is free but parking costs $10. You can avoid driving all together by taking the LIRR to Freeport to catch the N88 NICE bus.
Things to consider:
- NOISE: Whether you are in a boat or on the beach, the show can be quite loud. Machine grade earmuffs work wonders to help keep the noise level controlled for little ones. Even high decibel ear foam inserts are good for the adults.
- TAKEOFF: Most, if not all, of the planes will be taking off at the American Airpower Museum. An awesome place to explore in itself, the museum boasts vintage planes from many of the world wars.
- BAGS, COOLERS, and THINGS: It can be expensive eating at the restaurant or from the various vendors, but be careful what you pack. All bags are subject to search before you get on the beach. Bring drinks, snacks, and water.
- PHOTOS, LAYERS, & SUNSCREEN: Do not forget your camera! (Send me your great pictures!) One with a zoom is great if you are planning on catching some shots of the planes. Be sure to bring a blanket to lay on, sweatshirt, and definitely a lot of sunscreen!
- CARTS & CHAIRS: A beach wheeled cart is a great idea for lugging all the 'stuff' you'll need. Folding chairs are necessary since there is no seating for the show.
- KIDS: Bringing a wee one? How about a baby carrier, pop up shade tent for infants, and even a folded up umbrella stroller you can bring to the beach in the sand cart just in case they fall asleep and you want to be hands free. (Don't bring kites or motorized helicopters.) It may be too cold to play in the water, but sand toys are always fun. Bring a bucket to fill and let them play close to your spot.
- PETS: Not allowed! Only service animals allowed.
Alternate View Spots!
Don't feel like trekking the kids all the way to Jones Beach? Head to the American Airpower Museum to watch the planes take off. You can also see them from the Home Depot Parking lot or from a safe parking lot down 110 near the airport. I've also taken the kids to Wantagh Park and they saw a few planes while they played. Before that we drove to the beach and went around the pencil slowly so they could see the planes that were performing at the time.
* Remember not to park along the highway for safety and to avoid getting a ticket!*
