Wildwoods Air Show 2026: Everything You Need to Know This Weekend
The skies above the Wildwoods are about to get a whole lot louder as the Wildwoods Air Show returns this weekend, September 12 and 13, 2026, bringing military jets, historic aircraft, aerobatic performers and skydivers to the Jersey Shore.
Best of all, the air show is FREE to watch from the Wildwoods beaches and Boardwalk, with no ticket or registration required for general admission.
Wildwoods Air Show 2026: Everything You Need to Know This Weekend
When Does the Wildwoods Air Show Start?
The air show takes place Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13.
Gates for the event area open at 9 a.m., while the aerial portion of the show is expected to run from approximately noon until 3 p.m. Both days are scheduled to feature the same lineup of performers.
Because this is expected to be a very busy weekend in the Wildwoods, those planning to watch from the beach should arrive early to find parking and claim a good viewing spot.
Where Is the Best Place to Watch?
While the aircraft will be visible from much of the island, the official show center is located over the ocean between Morey’s Mariner’s Pier and Adventure Pier.
This is also where spectators will get the full air show experience. Speakers broadcasting the official narration and music will be positioned on the beach between the two piers.
General admission spectators can bring their own beach chairs, umbrellas and wagons. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are also permitted in the general admission area, but outside alcohol and glass containers are prohibited.
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Who Is Performing?
The headline attraction for 2026 is the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, giving spectators the opportunity to see one of the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft perform directly over the Jersey Shore.
New Jersey will also be represented by the 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard, which is scheduled to conduct an F-16 flyby over the Wildwoods beaches.
The announced lineup also includes MiG-17 aircraft, the Jersey Jerks, Patrick McAlee, David Windmiller, RJ Gritter, the RE/MAX Skydiving Team and a P-51 Mustang, among other military and civilian aviation acts. The RE/MAX Skydiving Team is expected to help open the flying program with a jump during the National Anthem.
The combination means spectators can expect everything from modern military jets and vintage warbirds to formation flying, parachuting and high-energy aerobatics.
A Special 9/11 Tribute
This year’s air show carries additional significance because it falls on the weekend marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.
The Wildwoods are holding several remembrance ceremonies on Friday, September 11, including ceremonies in North Wildwood, Downtown Wildwood and Wildwood Crest. Organizers have also announced an aerial salute connected with the air show weekend honoring the victims and heroes of 9/11.
Accessibility and Other Rules
An accessible boardwalk-to-beach ramp will be available at Spicer Avenue, and ADA restrooms and parking will be available. Beach wheelchairs can also be rented locally.
Strollers are permitted, although organizers recommend all-terrain or beach-style strollers because of the sand.
One rule photographers should pay particular attention to: drones are strictly prohibited. The air show operates within active FAA airspace, meaning unmanned aircraft cannot be flown on or near the event grounds.
The event is also scheduled to take place rain or shine, although individual performances can be delayed, modified or canceled depending on weather and flying conditions.
There’s More Happening Around Wildwood
The air show isn’t the only major event taking place this weekend.
On Saturday, the 18th Annual Wildwoods Food & Music Festival will take over Pacific Avenue between Oak and Schellenger avenues from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. The free festival will feature food vendors, craft vendors, family activities and live performances from Raising Cain, Animal House and Jovi’s Journey.
North Wildwood will also host its New Year’s in North Wildwood celebration featuring Mummers String Bands, while the 56th Annual North Wildwood Recreation Surf Fishing Competition runs throughout the weekend. Other events include the Roots Classic Volkswagen Car Show and Sunday’s Puppa Palooza.
If you didn’t see the show last year, we filmed a recap video. Watch it below (and subcribe)