Ocean City Air Show Weekend Takes Off with Airport Festival, Parachute Pyro and Boardwalk Aerobatics

Mark your calendars—Ocean City is gearing up for a weekend of high‑flying fun on September 19‑20, 2026. The town’s municipal airport becomes a playground for aircraft lovers, while the boardwalk and beach turn into a spectacular viewing gallery.

Kick‑off starts Saturday morning at the Ocean City Airport Festival, running from 10 a.m. to about 3 p.m. at the little airport on 26th Street and Bay Avenue. Expect a quirky mix of planes: everything from World War II relics and classic warbirds to sleek modern aircraft. Vendors will be dishing out snacks, local bands will keep the vibe lively, and there are plenty of kids’ activities—think airplane‑drawing contests, face‑painting, and even a meet‑and‑greet with the beloved Martin and Mollie Mollusk mascots.

At noon, Team Fastrax—America’s Skydiving Team—plans a parachute jump, weather permitting. After the jump, anyone can join a half‑mile “Runway Run/Walk,” which is open to all ages. If you’re feeling adventurous, helicopter rides will be on sale nearby.

Parking can be a hassle, but organizers have thought of that. Extra spots are set up on Shelter Road off Tennessee Avenue, and a free shuttle will ferry guests between the lot and the festival grounds.

When the sun sets, the beach lights up with a parachute‑pyrotechnic show at 8 p.m. Team Fastrax will soar 6,000 feet above the boardwalk, dropping white‑and‑color fireworks that streak across the night sky, before landing on Seventh Street Beach. The Righteous Brothers will also be on stage with the Ocean City Pops at the Music Pier at 7:30 p.m., pausing their performance so the audience can watch the fireworks from the pier.

Sunday brings the main event: the Boardwalk Aerobatic Air Show, kicking off at 1 p.m. Over the sand and boardwalk, you’ll see a lineup that includes Team Fastrax again, solo act Kevin Russo, the Jersey Jerks, Robert “Rooster” Schmidle and the Dougherty Air Shows. The best spot to watch? Between Fifth and 14th Streets, where the sky is wide open and the crowds are manageable.

Keep in mind there’s no rain date, and any of the aerial acts could be called off if the weather turns bad. Still, with so many free attractions and a few ticketed music events, there’s plenty to keep families, aviation buffs, and casual visitors entertained.

So, whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a traveler passing through New Jersey, the Ocean City Air Show Weekend promises excitement from the runway to the boardwalk.