The Pacific Airshow returns to Huntington Beach October 2-4, 2026, for three days of military and civilian aerial demonstrations over the Pacific Ocean. The 2026 lineup includes the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, F-35 demonstrations, the Goodyear Blimp and more, with the main show area centered along the Huntington Beach shoreline.
The beachfront event combines aerial performances with exhibits, food and beverage vendors and ticketed viewing areas. Practice activity may also be visible in the days leading up to the event. Performer participation and daily schedules can change, so check the official Pacific Airshow website before attending.
2026 Pacific Airshow Dates & Hours
- Dates: Friday, October 2 through Sunday, October 4, 2026
- Gates Open: 9:00 a.m. daily
- Airshow: Approximately 10:00 a.m. to 3:00-4:00 p.m.; timing is subject to change
- Location: Huntington Beach beachfront near Show Center, south of the Huntington Beach Pier
- Tickets: General admission and premium viewing options are available
The official flying schedule is subject to change and performer participation can vary by day. Check the organizer’s schedule as airshow weekend approaches for the latest information.
The show center is on the sand near the Waterfront Beach Resort, with the aerial performance area extending along the Huntington Beach coastline. The Huntington Beach Pier is near the center of the action.
2026 Pacific Airshow Performers
The announced 2026 lineup includes military demonstration teams, historic aircraft, parachute teams and civilian aerobatic performers. Scheduled performers include:
- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
- Canadian Forces Snowbirds
- U.S. Air Force F-35A Demo Team
- U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight with P-38
- U.S. Navy F-35C Demo Team
- U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler Airshow Team
- U.S. Navy F/A-18 West Coast Rhino Demo Team
- NORAD Interdiction Demo
- Royal Air Force Falcons Parachute Display Team
- Goodyear Blimp
- NASA flyover
- U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey
- U.S. Air Force C-17
- Royal Air Force C-17
- Mike Goulian
- Luke Czepiela
- Franky Zapata
- Greg Colyer
- Jeff Boerboon
- Emma McDonald
- Torrey Ward
- Bob Carlton
Performers and participation are subject to change. Visit the official Pacific Airshow performer page for the latest lineup and day-by-day schedule.
Pacific Airshow Tickets & Viewing Areas
The Pacific Airshow offers general admission and several premium viewing experiences. Ticket types and availability can change, so use the official Pacific Airshow ticket site for current pricing and inclusions.
- General Admission: Beachfront access within the official event area with access to event amenities.
- Show Center Zone: A viewing area near the center of the aerial performance box.
- Pier Seating: Ticketed access to designated viewing on the Huntington Beach Pier.
- Premium General Admission: Upgraded beachfront viewing with additional amenities.
- Garden Bar and Sports Bar: Upgraded social viewing areas with beverage service.
- Beach Club and Oasis: Premium hospitality areas with upgraded amenities.
- Cabanas and Chalets: Private or group hospitality options near Show Center.
The airshow can be visible from locations outside the official ticketed precinct, but views, access and amenities vary. Ticketed areas provide designated viewing locations and event services.
RV Camping: Limited airshow-weekend RV packages may be offered. Check the official ticket site for current availability, dates, pricing and package inclusions.
Where to Watch the Pacific Airshow
The primary viewing area is along the Huntington Beach shoreline around Show Center and the pier. Ticketed beachfront areas provide the most direct access to event amenities, while other portions of the coastline may offer more distant views. Because the aerial box and safety restrictions can change, follow posted instructions from event staff, lifeguards and public-safety agencies.
Pacific Airshow Parking & Transportation
Expect heavy traffic and limited parking throughout downtown Huntington Beach and along Pacific Coast Highway during airshow weekend. City and State Beach parking facilities are available in the area, along with downtown parking structures, but availability and event-day rates can vary.
Walking, biking, rideshare and public transportation can reduce the need to park close to the beach. If biking, bring a lock and follow current event guidance for bicycle parking or valet services. Allow extra travel time and check the City of Huntington Beach and Pacific Airshow transportation information before leaving home.
Huntington Beach Pier & Ocean Restrictions
Special safety restrictions are in effect around the aerial performance area. The organizer currently lists the Huntington Beach Pier as closed to normal public access during portions of airshow week, including event days. Ticketed Pier Seating provides designated access during the show.
- Wednesday, September 30: 11:45 a.m.-2:15 p.m.
- Thursday, October 1: 11:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
- Friday, October 2: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- Saturday, October 3: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- Sunday, October 4: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
During airshow operations, an offshore aerobatic safety box restricts water activity in the performance area. Current organizer guidance identifies restrictions from approximately 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Swimmers, surfers, boaters and other water users should follow instructions from lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and event officials.
What to Bring to the Pacific Airshow
- Sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
- Hearing protection, especially for children and anyone sensitive to loud aircraft
- Water and permitted snacks
- A beach chair, blanket or towel if your ticket area allows them
- Camera or binoculars
- A portable phone charger
Bag rules, umbrella policies and prohibited items can vary by ticketed area. Drones are prohibited around the airshow. Check the official event rules shortly before attending rather than relying on previous-year policies. Pets are generally restricted on event beaches; service animals are permitted subject to applicable rules.
Restaurants with a Pacific Airshow View
Oceanfront and rooftop restaurants around downtown Huntington Beach and Pacific City can provide views toward the airshow, although buildings, crowds and the location of the aerial performance box affect visibility. Reservations are strongly recommended during airshow weekend, and some restaurants may offer special event packages.
- The Bungalow Huntington Beach
- Cabo Wabo Beach Club
- Duke’s Huntington Beach
- Fred’s Mexican Cafe
- Huntington Beach House
- Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge
- Ola Mexican Kitchen
- Pacific Hideaway
- Sandy’s Beach Shack
- Tanner’s
- Treehouse on PCH
Restaurant operations and special airshow packages can change from year to year, so contact the restaurant directly before making plans specifically around the view.
Pacific Airshow FAQ
When is the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach in 2026?
The 2026 Pacific Airshow is scheduled for Friday, October 2 through Sunday, October 4 in Huntington Beach, California.
What time does the Pacific Airshow start?
Gates are scheduled to open at 9:00 a.m. daily, with aerial performances beginning at approximately 10:00 a.m. The flying schedule is subject to change.
Who is performing at the 2026 Pacific Airshow?
Announced performers include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, F-35 demonstration teams, U.S. Navy aircraft, the Goodyear Blimp and numerous civilian performers. The lineup is subject to change.
Is the Pacific Airshow free?
The official event precinct offers ticketed general admission and premium viewing areas. Aircraft may be visible from other areas of Huntington Beach, but views and amenities outside the ticketed event area vary.
Can you watch the Pacific Airshow from Huntington Beach Pier?
The pier is subject to public-access closures during airshow operations. The organizer offers ticketed Pier Seating for designated viewing during the event.
Can you watch the Pacific Airshow from a boat?
Boaters may be able to view the airshow from outside restricted waters, but a safety zone is established offshore. Follow U.S. Coast Guard restrictions and event guidance and never enter the sterile aerobatic box.
Can you swim or surf during the Pacific Airshow?
Ocean access is restricted within the airshow safety area during performance hours. Follow lifeguard instructions and posted restrictions.
Where should I park for the Pacific Airshow?
Parking is available at city, downtown and State Beach facilities, but demand is very high. Arrive early and consider biking, rideshare or public transportation.
Can I bring chairs and umbrellas?
Rules depend on the viewing area and ticket type. Beach chairs and blankets are commonly permitted in appropriate areas, while umbrella rules can vary. Check the current official rules for your ticket before attending.
Are dogs allowed at the Pacific Airshow?
Pets are generally restricted on event beaches. Service animals are permitted subject to applicable laws and event rules.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flying schedules depend on weather, visibility and operational conditions. Performances can be delayed, changed or canceled, so check official event updates before traveling.
More Things to Do in Huntington Beach
Make a day or weekend of the airshow with our guides to the City of Huntington Beach, Huntington Beach beaches, Huntington Beach bucket list, Orange County restaurants with a view, best Orange County beach resorts and Orange County fairs and festivals.