The Long Beach Airport (LGB) gears up for its annual Festival of Flight, with the free public event set to soar on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. The excitement was confirmed in a statement acquired by the City of Long Beach's official website, and it’s expected to draw a crowd of around 15,000 aviation aficionados of all ages, brimming with a lineup of attractions including static aircraft displays, food and beverage offerings, and live entertainment.
According to Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, whose comments were featured on the city's website, "Walking the airfield and seeing these planes up close is an experience like no other," adding, "Festival of Flight captures the energy of our historic airport and the community spirit that makes Long Beach unique." The festival, a tradition since 2013, continues to celebrate LGB's centennial while raising awareness about California's oldest municipally owned airport, will have youthful hearts racing with children's activities, their senses enraptured by performances from AbSOULute, DJ Dennis, and the Satin Dollz, as well as enticed by the aroma of various food and beer trucks, promises a day filled with awe and wonder.
As detailed by the city's press release, impressive aircraft such as the C-53 "D-Day Doll" and the KC-46 Pegasus will be showcased, as well as the VX-31 Search and Rescue "Dust Devils" U.S. Navy helicopter crew. The Condor Squadron will also grace the skies with two flyovers in their AT-6 Texans, with the notable support of Aeroplex/Aerolease Group and LAZ Airport Services, though guests should note that aircraft displays are subject to change. Fifth District Councilwoman Megan Kerr praised the event for its blend of innovation and history, stating, "It’s a special day where families, aviation enthusiasts, and visitors come together to enjoy all that Long Beach Airport has to offer."
For those planning to attend, practical tips include bringing water, wearing comfortable shoes, and preparing for a full day outdoors, with a reminder that while service animals are welcome, pets will have to stay at home. The event organizers have also arranged free parking starting at 8 a.m. on East Wardlow Road and Globemaster Way, and encourage the use of alternate transportation like cycling, carpooling, ride sharing, public transportation and has provided free bicycle valet parking, there's also overflow parking available with a shuttle service making it convenient to reach the festivities, ensuring the Festival of Flight is accessible to all those dreaming of a day under the aircrafts adorned sky.
For constant updates and more information on the airborne spectacle, aviation enthusiasts can follow LGB on social media or visit the Festival of Flight webpage. Long Beach Airport, esteemed as the country's second-best airport by The Washington Post, continues to link Los Angeles and Orange counties efficiently, with airlines providing a vast network of destinations showcasing its vitality in America's aviation infrastructure.
