Wildwoods “Thunder Over the Waves” Airshow 2025: Full Schedule, FAQs, and Insider Guide
The Wildwoods are set to take flight this fall with the debut of the “Thunder Over the Waves” Airshow, happening Friday, September 5, and Saturday, September 6, 2025.
This brand-new event will transform the skies over the beach and boardwalk into a stage for military jets, aerobatic pilots, parachute teams, and vintage warbirds.
Even better, the entire show is free to the public, making it one of the biggest new family-friendly events at the Jersey Shore.
Wildwoods “Thunder Over the Waves” Airshow 2025
Organizers expect more than 200,000 spectators to attend, putting this airshow in line with some of the largest in the country.
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Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable weekend at the shore, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip, from the full schedule to FAQs, VIP options, and even a behind-the-scenes look at the Air Bosses making it all happen.
When and Where to Watch
The airshow takes place over the ocean between Morey’s Mariners Pier and Adventure Pier, with perfect views stretching from 22nd Street down to Andrews Avenue.
On Friday, September 5, practice flights will run from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering a sneak peek of what’s to come. The main event kicks off Saturday, September 6, at 11:30 a.m. and runs until 4:00 p.m.
While the show can be seen from just about anywhere in the Wildwoods, the best viewing area is at “Show Center” near Spicer Avenue, where parachute landings, announcers, and special demonstrations will take place.
Full Airshow Schedule
The lineup is packed with military precision, aerobatic stunts, and historic aircraft. Here’s the full schedule for Saturday, September 6:
- 11:30 AM – Temporary flight restrictions begin, live broadcast starts on 98.7 FM
- 11:50 AM – Opening ceremonies
- 12:00 PM – National Anthem with Army Golden Knights Flag Jump
- 12:06 PM – Army Golden Knights Mass Exit Show
- 12:14 PM – Mark Meredith – DHC-1 Chipmunk Aerobatics
- 12:34 PM – Scott Francis – MXS Aerobatics
- 12:49 PM – Jerry Conley – DH-115 Vampire Jet
- 1:04 PM – U.S. Coast Guard MH-65E Dolphin Search and Rescue Demo
- 1:14 PM – Jersey Jerks – 4-ship SNJ Formation
- 1:24 PM – Kevin Russo – SNJ-6 Aerobatics
- 1:39 PM – Patrick McAlee – Pitts Aerobatics
- 1:54 PM – Full Throttle Formation Team
- 2:10 PM – Army Golden Knights Mass Exit Show (second jump)
- 2:30 PM – ACEMAKER – T-33 Shooting Star Jet Aerobatics
- 2:45 PM – P-51D Mustang Demonstration
- 2:58 PM – Fighter Jets Inc. – MiG-17 Jet Aerobatics
- 4:00 PM – Airspace reopens, show concludes
What You’ll See in the Skies
The lineup features some of the best performers in the business. The Army Golden Knights Parachute Team will thrill the crowd with precision jumps, while military flyovers from the NJ Air National Guard, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and Dover Air Force Base showcase modern power.
Aerobatic stars like Scott Francis in his MXS, Patrick McAlee in a Pitts, and the Full Throttle Formation Team will wow with flips, rolls, and dives.
Warbird fans can look forward to Jerry Conley’s DH-115 Vampire Jet, the ACEMAKER T-33 Shooting Star, a powerful P-51D Mustang, and the Jersey Jerks SNJ formation team. The U.S. Coast Guard’s MH-65E Dolphin helicopter will even demonstrate a dramatic ocean search and rescue mission.
Admission, VIP, and Chalets
General admission to the airshow is free and doesn’t require tickets. But for those looking for a premium experience, there are two upgrade options:
- Show Center Club: $50 for adults and just $5 for kids (16 and under). Located at Spicer Avenue, this shaded VIP area offers prime views of the parachute landing zone and a more comfortable setting.
- Private Chalets: For groups of up to 60, these beachside tents come with chairs, tables, refreshments, and a front-row view for $4,500.
Parking, Transportation, and Accessibility
Parking is available on local streets and in metered areas using the ParkMobile app. For convenience, the Jitney service will run along Ocean and New Jersey Avenues for just $3 per ride, bookable through the Jitney Surfer app.
The iconic Wildwoods Sightseer Tram Car will also operate along the boardwalk for $5 per ride.
The airshow is ADA accessible, with beach wheelchairs available. Families can bring beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels, but coolers, alcohol, and open flames are prohibited.
Food, Entertainment, and Extras
Food courts, beverage tents, and restrooms will be set up along the beach. After the airshow wraps up, the celebration continues at Byrne Plaza from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with the Wildwoods Food and Music Festival.
Visitors can enjoy food vendors, craft stalls, live music, and a beer garden, making it the perfect way to end the day.
Meet the Air Boss Team
Behind every great airshow is an experienced Air Boss team, ensuring safety and seamless coordination:
- David Schultz – President of David Schultz Airshows, with nearly 30 years of experience directing world-class events.
- Greg Witmer – Vice President of Operations, Schultz Airshows; FAA-recognized with more than 300 airshows under his belt.
- “Fast Eddie” Leuter – The voice of the show, bringing 30 years of energy, aerobatic expertise, and warbird knowledge to the microphone.
The Thunder Over the Waves Airshow isn’t just another event. It’s the beginning of a new Wildwoods tradition. With breathtaking aerobatics, military power, and parachute jumps all set against the backdrop of the ocean and boardwalk, this free show is one of the best new reasons to visit the Jersey Shore.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your beach chair, and get ready for a weekend you’ll never forget.
The Wildwood Video Archive filmed on Friday, which you can watch below