Community Corner

SoCal Air Show At March Air Reserve Base Draws Weekend Crowds

The show, from April 12 - 13, will fill the skies with aerial feats, including the Thunderbirds, and more aircraft displays on the tarmac.

The United States Air Force Thunderbirds perform during the Pacific Airshow Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, in Huntington Beach, Calif.
The United States Air Force Thunderbirds perform during the Pacific Airshow Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, in Huntington Beach, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

PERRIS, CA — This weekend, the skies over Riverside County will be filled with aircraft dipping, rolling, and flying in formation for the Southern California Air Show at March Air Reserve Base.

The gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The show will begin at 9:30 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m.

Driving Directions to the base are:

Find out what's happening in Lake Elsinore-Wildomarfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Cactus Gate is 363 Graeber Street, March Air Reserve Base, off I-215 Northbound.
  • Riverside Gate is 625 Riverside Drive, March Air Reserve Base, off I-215 Southbound.
  • Pedestrian Access:

Upon Arrival:

Security will inspect bags, and attendees must have identification. Drones are not allowed at the venue.

Find out what's happening in Lake Elsinore-Wildomarfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

You can bring folding chairs and handheld umbrellas, wagons, strollers, snacks, and water bottles. You are not permitted to bring coolers, drugs, alcohol, or weapons. See afull list of permitted and non-permitted items here.

The online program shows the depth of military prowess that will be on display, including the Thunderbirds and teams of skydivers known as the "Wings of Blue."

A detailed map shows where you can stroll among the planes, from fighters to trainers, warbirds to helicopters, and first responders to air force recruiters.

Take a seat to watch the show in the free open seating area, or pay for premium flight line or box seats. And here's a peek at some of the performers and static displays.

Col. Bryan M. Bailey spoke on the event in a letter to attendees.

"You will witness the raw lethality and unmatched capabilities of our military and civilian aviators as they push the limits of flight to demonstrate the might of American airpower," he wrote. "From high-speed military demonstrations to awe-inspiring civilian performances, and from cutting-edge aircraft to interactive ground displays, every aspect of this event reflects our commitment to defending freedom and advancing the frontier of aviation."

Learn more at socalairshow.com.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.