Hawaii’s biggest event of the year is happening this weekend, and the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels, is the main attraction.
The 2025 Kaneohe Bay Air Show, more fittingly known as “Blues on the Bay,” will return to Oahu for the first time since 2022.
A special show reserved for Military Appreciation Day will take place on Friday, Aug. 8. The general public can catch the high-flying spectacle over Oahu's Ko'olau Range on Saturday and Sunday.
The Blue Angels will headline the show, but there will be plenty more for fans to see at the air show. The U.S. Air Force’s F-22 Raptor and KC-135 demonstration teams will take to the skies along with four other performers.
Fans can get close-up looks at grounded static displays of vintage and modern aircraft, walk through an exhibitor expo, catch some live music, grab a bite to eat and more. Families can also take their kids to engage with interactive exhibits from local and national organizations at the STEM zone.
When is the Kaneohe Bay Air Show?
The 2025 Kaneohe Bay Air Show is a three-day event that runs Aug. 8-10.
Friday’s show is reserved for active and retired military service members, DoD civilian employees, first responders and their families, along with anyone with existing base access.
Saturday and Sunday’s shows are free and will be open to the public. Fans can purchase tickets for preferred seating, which will get them access to a front row view of the show line, bleacher seating, shade tents and plenty of other perks.
Is there a schedule for the Kaneohe Bay Air Show?
Air show organizers have confirmed they are not planning to release a schedule for the 2025 Kaneohe Bay Air Show.
What time should you get to the air show?
Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) will open for public access at 8 a.m. each day, and the air show grounds will open at 9 a.m. Preferred seating ticket holders can start finding their seats at 10 a.m.
Past visitors say that traffic conditions getting onto the base are easier than leaving, but organizers say you should arrive early, carpool or rideshare.
Where can I park?
Parking will be available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Drivers will be directed to the general parking areas as they enter the MCBH main gate, located at the end of the H3 interstate.
Drivers who purchased a preferred parking pass should use the left lane when entering the base, making sure their parking pass is printed and available. Security personnel will direct you to your designated parking area.
Handicap parking is also available. Drivers with a disability or transporting someone with a disability should again use the far left lane when they enter the base. Vehicles with official handicap identification will be directed to designated parking areas or drop-off locations.
Is there public transportation or a shuttle service?
Guests won’t be able to take regular public transportation to get around, but the base will offer a shuttle service that loops around between access to the event, the Semper Fit Center Kulia, MCX Marine Mart (the designated drop-off location for rideshare), Fort Hase, Mololani Community Center and the event’s entry gate.
Residents attempting to access the on-base housing areas at the Semper Fit Center Kulia and the Mololani Community Center will need to provide their DoD ID upon exiting.
The Kaneohe Bay Air Show requires ID verification to get on base. Here’s what else you should bring
Going to an air show is typically an all-day affair, which means you’ll want to pack anything you might need. With the level of restrictions usually in place at events like this, that can be easier said than done. Here’s what you can and should bring to the Kaneohe Bay Air Show.
All adults aged 18 and older will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID that displays their full name to be permitted entry.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and/or a small umbrella to provide shade
Ear protection (the Blue Angels are loud)
Chairs or blankets to sit on
Water bottles to stay hydrated
Bags: Any-size transparent bags are allowed; small purses, fanny packs, baby bags and other small items
Small coolers containing only medicinal items or infant formula, if needed
Wheelchairs, small strollers and small children's wagons, if needed
Food vendors will be on-site to provide a bite to eat.
Here’s a list of items you should leave at home:
Outside food or drinks (except water bottles)
Weapons
Alcohol, illegal drugs
Pets (except service animals)
Glass containers
Flammable items or fireworks
Cooking equipment
Large umbrellas, sunshades and tents
Non-transparent backpacks, duffel bags and other large bags
Drones
Ice chests or coolers (except for medicinal items and infant formula)
Lasers
Wheeled recreational devices like rollerblades and skateboards
Who is performing at the 2025 Kaneohe Bay Air Show?
The 2025 Kaneohe Bay Air Show air show will include the following performers:
The Blue Angels
C-130J Hercules “Fat Albert” — The Blue Angels’ support aircraft
MV-22 Osprey demonstration
U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor demonstration team
U.S. Air Force KC-135 demonstration team
The Para-Commandos
Precision Exotics
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Blue Angels land in Hawaii for 2025 Kaneohe Bay Air Show
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