Featured
Look Up! The OC Air Show Returns to Ocean City, MD This Weekend
By Katie RuskeyJune 9, 20263 min read
On this page
Here's What You Need to Know
UH-72 Lakota Helicopter is a welcome sight in the shy at this year's 19th annual air show.
The action begins each day at 11:30 a.m., with aerial performances running from noon until approximately 3 p.m. Spectators can catch the show from much of the beach between 6th Street and 26th Street, while premium viewing areas will be available between 13th and 17th Streets. There is no admission fee to watch the OC Air Show from the beach or Boardwalk.
Who to Expect to See
Ocean City, Maryland welcomes Patrouille de France to this year's 19th air show.
This year's show promises to be one of the most exciting yet, headlined by the incredible U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Known for their precision flying and breathtaking maneuvers, the Thunderbirds are always a crowd favorite. Joining them will be the U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, the West Point Parachute Team, and a truly historic attraction making its way to Ocean City.
For the first time in nearly four decades, the legendary Patrouille de France will return to American skies as part of the nationwide "Liberté 250" celebration honoring 250 years of friendship between France and the United States. Flying their iconic Alpha Jets while trailing vibrant red, white, and blue smoke, the team will officially launch their American tour right here in Ocean City. It's a rare opportunity to witness one of the world's most celebrated aerobatic teams perform over the Atlantic Ocean.
Silent Stars
The Thunderbirds will take flight this weekend in Ocean City, Maryland.
While the pilots and performers may be the stars of the show, countless people work behind the scenes throughout the year to make the event happen. Organizers coordinate with city, county, and state partners, military units, performers, contractors, and volunteers to safely deliver one of the nation's premier air shows.
An Economic Boost
West Point Parachute Team will show off their meticulous skills above the beach June 12-13th.
Beyond the thrilling aerial displays, the event provides a major boost to Ocean City's tourism economy. Tens of thousands of visitors are expected to attend, filling hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions throughout the weekend. Many families even plan their annual vacations around the air show.
A Beautiful Beach Backdrop
We can't wait to see the A400M Atlas soar above us.
What makes Ocean City's event so special? According to organizers, it's the stunning backdrop. There are few places where spectators can watch military jets roar overhead while sitting on the beach with their toes in the sand.
Whether you're a lifelong aviation enthusiast or attending your first air show, organizers promise you'll leave impressed by the incredible skill and talent of the pilots who take to the skies. Expect plenty of excitement, lots of noise, and unforgettable memories.
So grab your beach chair, find a spot in the sand, and get ready to look up. The OC Air Show is ready to soar into Ocean City once again. For more information visit our Ocean City Air Show Guide.
All photos courtesy of AirDotShowTour.About Katie Ruskey
Katie Ruskey is a local author, splitting her time between Baltimore and Ocean City. Her debut fiction novel, Marlin Week, was released in August 2022 based on three captains that fish in the infamous White Marlin Open. Her first children's book, The A B Seas of Ocean City, Maryland takes young readers on a tour of OC. For more information on how to purchase her books, visit her website www.kruskeyauthor.com or follow her on IG/FB at Katherine Ruskey Author.
Get Ocean City in your inbox
Updates, events, and deals — delivered weekly. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
From visitors
Comments
Have something to add? Drop a comment below.
Be the first to share your experience.