America's Largest Military Air Show Returns to San Diego
The MCAS Miramar Air Show runs September 25-27, 2026, offering free general admission and parking for three days of high‑energy aviation performances and military demonstrations.
This year's theme, "Soaring into America’s 250th," celebrates innovation, aviation excellence, and the nation’s milestone anniversary. The event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors and is widely recognized as the largest military air show in the United States.
Headlining Performers You Won’t Want to Miss
U.S. Navy Blue Angels
The Blue Angels return to Miramar with their F/A‑18 Super Hornet formation demonstration and C-130J "Fat Albert" support aircraft. Their performances close each day of the show and are known for precision, speed, and crowd‑favorite maneuvers
USMC F‑35B Lightning II Demo
The Marine Corps' F-35B showcases short-takeoff and vertical-landing capabilities, a highlight for aviation enthusiasts
USMC F-35B Lightning II Demo
The Marine Corps' F-35B showcases short-takeoff and vertical-landing capabilities, a highlight for aviation enthusiasts
Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Demo
A signature Miramar experience, the MAGTF demonstration simulates a battlefield assault with aircraft, troops, and pyrotechnics right along the crowd line.
Vicky Benzing's P-51D "Plum Crazy"
A fan favorite, Vicky Benzing performs in her vintage P-51D Mustang "Plum Crazy," delivering high-energy aerobatics and classic warbird nostalgia.
SOCOM Para-Commandos
The U.S. SOCOM Para-Commandos parachute team performs precision jumps during the welcoming ceremonies and throughout the weekend.
Additional Civilian & Military Acts
The lineup also includes:
- MV‑22 Osprey Demo
- USAF C‑17 Globemaster III Demo
- Ed Hamill’s Folds of Honor Pitts S‑2C
- Emma McDonald aerobatics
- USMC Mounted Color Guard
- 3d MAW Marching Band
What to Expect at the Miramar Air Show
Visitors can explore static aircraft displays, walk through an active F‑18 hangar expo, and enjoy immersive demonstrations from modern fighter jets to historic warbirds.
Gates open at 8:00 AM daily, with aerial performances running into the late afternoon.
Admission and parking are free, though preferred seating and hospitality packages are available. All attendees 18+ must present valid government‑issued ID
Why Vacation Beach Homes Guests Love This Event
Staying in Solana Beach, Del Mar, or Encinitas puts you just minutes from MCAS Miramar, making it easy to enjoy the show while relaxing in a coastal vacation rental. Guests often pair the air show with beach days, dining, and exploring North County’s coastal communities.
Whether you’re here for the Blue Angels, historic aircraft, or the patriotic atmosphere, the Miramar Air Show is one of San Diego’s most iconic annual events
