Tips for Attending The Naval Air Show

Updated 3/29/18

When we first moved to Maryland I didn’t know anything about the blue angels. But when our family moved to Bowie I heard a lot about how awesome the Blue Angels Airshow was. So I convinced Jared that we needed to go and I’m so glad we did.

The Blue Angles Airshow happens annually during Commissioning Week at the U.S. Naval Academy. This is typically in late May. Don’t worry if you don’t live in Maryland there are other opportunities to see the Blue Angels Airshow. Check the bottom of the post for information on finding where they are performing and dates.

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We went to see the Airshow for the first time this year and it was amazing to watch. Today I’m sharing just a few tips from our first experience at the Airshow.

#1 There is a Practice Show

Some friends shared this little tidbit of advice with me. The day before the scheduled airshow there is a practice show. This is the show we attended. They practice the whole show, so it was a couple of hours long. The practice day gives you the option to either see the show twice or have a couple options of when to go. 

I would assume that other locations for the Airshows also have practice days, but be sure to check. I only know for sure that Annapolis has the practice show.

#2 The Best Place to View the Airshow

I have heard that the best place to watch the airshow is on a boat. Since we don’t have access to a boat we watched the Airshow from in front of the World War 2 Memorial in Annapolis. It’s free to park at the WW2 Memorial and there is quite a bit of grassy area. Just be prepared for traffic!

You can also watch the Airshow on Naval Academy Grounds, they have parking by the stadium with a shuttle taking you to the viewing area.

#3 Plan a Picnic

The show is a couple of hours long so bring some treats and drinks to enjoy while you watch the show in the sky. I would also recommend bringing a blanket or chairs to sit on.

If you watch the show at the Naval Academy I don’t think they allow coolers, be sure to check their website before you go.

#4 Be Prepared for Traffic

During the air show, there are road closures and bridge closures so if you’re around the viewing areas for the airshow be prepared for traffic.

#5 Bring a Camera

Don’t forget your camera to get some great photos and videos. Since the planes aren’t really close it might be hard to get any good pictures with a phone. Also, you can take cute pictures of your kiddos while you enjoy being outside!

#6 DON’T FORGET

Here are just a few things you don’t want to forget to bring to the airshow or anytime you’re going to be outside during the summer in Maryland.

  • Bug spray – use the bug spray and then be sure to check for ticks when you get home!
  • Sunscreen/protection – The Airshow is a couple hours long so be sure to protect yourself from having a bad sunburn to start the summer.
  • Water – This is for obvious reasons, but sometimes I forget to grab the Waterbottle on my way out the door so here is a friendly reminder.

Other Shows

The Blue Angels perform all over the country so if you don’t live in Maryland don’t worry. You can check their schedule and see if they have a show near you.

Have you been to the Airshow? What did you think, any tips you would add?

Looking for more fun activities in Maryland? Check out the Ultimate Maryland Bucket List

3 thoughts on “Tips for Attending The Naval Air Show”

  1. Pingback: 101 Outdoor Family Bonding Activities {Summer} - The Keele Deal

  2. My husband is on staff at the Naval Academy so we watch from Hospital point! I love Blue Angel week…one of the best in Annapolis!

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