"Thunderbirds Soar Back for Gulf Coast Salute Air Show!"

Thunderbirds Return THIS Weekend for Gulf Coast Salute Air Show in Panama City Beach

Free air show April 10–12 brings high-flying action to Panama City Beach

The wait is over, the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show is happening THIS weekend (April 10–12, 2026), and the skies over Panama City Beach are about to come alive.

Headlined by the world-famous U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, this free, family-friendly event returns to the beachfront near Russell-Fields City Pier for three days of high-speed aerial performances, patriotic displays, and nonstop excitement.

✈️ What to Expect This Weekend

Friday kicks things off as a practice day, making it one of the best times to catch the action with smaller crowds while still enjoying full performances and open vendors.

The full show runs:

Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thunderbirds performance: at 3:00 PM each day

Throughout the day, spectators will enjoy performances from a stacked lineup of aviation talent, including:

Adam Baker
Mike Goulian
Randy Ball
NextGen Eagles
Warbird Thunder
Redline Airshows
Acemaker T-33
Third Strike Wing Walking
Extreme Flight
Misty Blues Parachute Team

All leading up to the Thunderbirds’ signature precision finale.

🌊 Best Places to Watch

While the pier serves as the official “center stage,” you’ll have great views from:

Anywhere within 1 mile east or west of Russell-Fields City Pier
Open beachfront areas (bring chairs, umbrellas, or blankets)

💡 Pro tip: Arrive early for the best spots, especially Saturday.

🚗 Parking, Traffic & Getting There

This is one of the largest events of the year, so plan ahead:

FREE parking: Aaron Bessant Park
Paid parking: Available at nearby locations like Sharky’s (limited)

Expect:

Heavy traffic
Road closures near the pier
Increased foot traffic along Front Beach Road

👉 Golf cart shuttles will run between Aaron Bessant Park and the pier to help with transportation.

🍔 Food, Vendors & Atmosphere

Food and beverage vendors will be set up along beach access points near the pier, offering everything from quick bites to full meals.

The vibe:

Beach + jets overhead ✈️
Family-friendly crowds
Festival-style atmosphere

📲 Stay Updated During the Event

For real-time updates, weather alerts, and schedule changes:

👉 Text PCBAIRSHOW to 888-777

🎟️ Event Details at a Glance

Dates: April 10–12, 2026
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM daily
Thunderbirds: at 3 PM daily
Location: Russell-Fields City Pier area
Admission: FREE

Don’t Miss It

This is your chance to experience one of America’s premier air shows right here on the Emerald Coast.

Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show delivers a perfect mix of adrenaline, beach vibes, and family fun.

New Updated Information Below:

Friday Night Block Party

April 10, 2026 • 6–8 PM. With an action‑packed evening featuring a precision performance by the USAFA Sabre Drill Team, a meet‑and‑greet with the performers, and a high‑energy showcase from the USAFA Drum and Bugle Corps.

New This Year: The STEM Zone at Aaron Bessant Park

Get ready, Aaron Bessant Park is transforming into a high‑energy playground of discovery with the debut of our all‑new STEM Zone science, technology, engineering, and math. This lively festival hub invites families and curious minds of all ages to dive into hands‑on science fun, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy a full day of entertainment, vendors, and springtime excitement.

Kids (and grown‑ups) can jump into activities like squishy circuits, magnet games, robots, bottle rockets, a touch tank with local marine life, LEGO race cars, live music, and so much more. It’s the perfect blend of learning and play, all wrapped into one unforgettable festival experience.

FAQ:

Will there be handicap parking?

There is very limited handicap parking. Either arrive early, have someone drop you off or use the shuttle from Aaron Bessant Park.

What is the best viewing area?

The best viewing within 1 mile East or West of Russel-Fields Pier.

Will there be food?

Yes, Food & Beverage vendors will be lined along the beach accesses near Russell-Fields City Pier on both sides and at Aaron Bessant Park

What can I bring?

Lawn chairs, hats, sunscreen, blankets, binoculars, cameras

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, if it’s on a leash. Beware of loud air flight noise, which may be upsetting for the dog.

Is there free parking?

Yes, there is a parking lot at 600 Pier Park Drive and Arron Bessant Park 500 W Park Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 with a shuttle going to the Russell-Fields Pier.
There could be other locations that do charge for parking.
There will be some road closures along Front Beach Road from West Park Drive to Powell Adams Road, as well as some on Pier Park.

Is there a map?