Thousands of residents are expected to cruise into the Long Beach Airport (LGB) for its annual Festival of Flight this Saturday.
The beloved free flight-focused event features aircraft displays, live music performances, beer and food trucks, activities for children and helicopter rides for purchase. Performances include sets by The Satin Dollz, DJ Dennis and AbSOULute.
The lineup of aircrafts is expected to include:
- A KC-46 Pegasus, an air-to-air military refueling aircraft.
- The Flabob Express DC-3, built in 1943 and has a storied history that includes flying Winston Churchill and the Royal Family.
- A modified Lockheed L-1011 TriStar that is the only L-1011 still operational.
The Condor Squadron will also conduct two flyovers. All aircraft displays are sponsored by the Port of Long Beach and subject to change.
“Festival of Flight is an all-encompassing showcase of our historic Airport and our City’s unique spirit,” said Fourth District Councilman Daryl Supernaw in a public statement. “This festival is a beloved tradition for many families, and I’m so proud that our community has the opportunity to gather on the airfield at LGB in such a meaningful way.”
Festival of Flight began in 2013 to celebrate the airport’s 90th anniversary. This year’s Festival of Flight will double as the closing event of LGB’s year-long 100th anniversary celebration, which began on Nov. 26, 2023.
Attendees should bring water, wear sensible shoes and be prepared to be outdoors for hours. Coolers will not be allowed and bags are subject to searches. Service animals are allowed, but pets are not.
Free parking will be available at the corner of East Wardlow Road and Globemaster Way beginning at 9 a.m. Alternate modes of transportation, such as cycling, carpooling, ridesharing and public transportation, are highly encouraged. Bicycle parking will be available. Overflow parking will be available at 3880 Kilroy Airport Way, with free shuttle service to the event.
“Festival of Flight is a rare chance to walk right onto the airfield and get an up-close look at Long Beach Airport,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “This is one of my family’s favorite events in Long Beach, and this year is going to be unforgettable as the grand finale of LGB’s centennial festivities.”
Festival of Flight is free and open to the public, and will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the west end of the airfield at 3590 East Wardlow Road.
