It’s official—Blue Angels weekend has started.
Pensacola’s favorite hometown team, the Blue Angels, returned to the city’s emerald-green waters with a two-hour showing on Wednesday morning. On Thursday, the team will hold its first practice for the 2025 Pensacola Beach Air Show.
Don’t let the word “practice” fool you, though. Thursday’s demonstration promises fans all of the same high-speed excitement and famous maneuvers fans will see during Friday and Saturday’s shows.
The only thing missing will be the accompanying military and civilian performers—and the crowds.
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning to watch the Blue Angels perform on Thursday.
What to expect at the Blue Angels’ practice show
The Blue Angels practice show on Thursday will be the same performance fans see during Friday’s dress rehearsal and the official Pensacola Beach Air Show on Saturday.
The biggest departure from Thursday’s demonstration is the lack of everything else. Don’t expect the same crowds, vendors or other performers.
When do the Blue Angels fly on Thursday?
The Blue Angels will fly at 2 p.m. on Thursday, which is the same time they’ll fly on Friday and Saturday.
What time should you get to the beach?
Thursday’s practice is held at 2 p.m., giving fans some extra time to sleep in. The Casino Beach parking lot reportedly closed just after 10 a.m. last year.
Where is the best place to watch the practice on Pensacola Beach?
The best place to watch the Blue Angels’ practice will be near the show center, which is around Casino Beach. You’ll be able to get clear views of the show from other spots along Pensacola Beach, too, like Quietwater Beach.
What should visitors bring to the beach for the best experience?
Every day at the Pensacola Beach Air Show is a full-day event, so you’ll want to pack accordingly. Here are some things you shouldn’t leave without:
What are the safety guidelines for watching the show?
There aren’t many show-specific rules to follow at the Pensacola Beach Air Show, but there are plenty of general safety tips to follow:
Who are the current pilots and crew members of the Blue Angels?
Here is a look at the 2025 Blue Angel pilots and their roles:
There are three officers who serve as pilots for the Blue Angels’ beloved support aircraft known as “Fat Albert.”
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Want to watch the Blue Angels practice on Thursday? Here’s everything to know
Reporting by Brandon Girod, Pensacola News Journal / Pensacola News Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
