The classic Atlantic City Air Show, also known as Thunder over the Boardwalk, is renewed this 2025 with its new name Soar & Shore FestivalAlthough the name has changed, the idea of the event remains the same: aerial acrobatics over the sea, military aircraft, and many other free beach activities as part of this festival.
Photo credit: Visit Atlantic City
When is the Soar & Shore Festival 2025?
Dates: of the July 14-20, 2025
Main Air Show: HeJuly 16, with rehearsals on July 15th (12:00 to 14:30) So if you are around a few days before, you can catch this show twice.
What to expect from the new Atlantic City air show
Despite the name change, the event retains what we all love:
- Misty Blues Parachute Team – Female only paratroopers
- Nathan Hammond's Super Chipmunk – High-energy stunts
- USCG MH-65 – Dolphin SAR Demo
- 177th Fighter Wing, New Jersey ANG – Four F-16 flybys
- B-25 Mitchell Bomber – A legendary World War II aircraft
- UH-1H Huey with Smokey Bear – Vietnam-era helicopter
- 305 AMW KC-46 Pegasus – Tanker aircraft
- Third Strike Wingwalking – Dual wingwalking + individual acrobatics
- F4F Wildcat (Thom Richard) – US Navy classic fighter plane
- 106 RQW HC-130J Combat King II – Search and rescue aircraft
- Warbird Thunder – Aerobatic squadron
- Skip Stewart – Award-winning aerobatic pilot
- Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17 Fighter – Cold War-era Soviet aircraft
Photo credit: Visit Atlantic City
Special events of the week
The Soar & Shore Festival is not just about airborne activities, but also includes:
- Jimmy Johnson's Atlantic City "Quest for the Ring" Fishing Contest (July 14-19)
The Car Show for the second year (July 16)
Silent movie in front of Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall (July 16)
Slippery Stairs Contest with ESPN (July 17)
Live music and daily entertainment on the beach and boardwalk
Fireworks by Grucci (July 16)
Where to watch the show
From any point on the beach or the Boardwalk
VIP areas available with paid admission (recommended for better views and shade)
Tips for visitors
Arrive as early as possible (before 9 or 10 am) to ensure a good spot and find parking nearby.
Don't forget to bring a chair, umbrella, sunscreen and binoculars.
Atlantic City Air Show FAQ
Is this the same event as the previous air show?
Yes. The Soar & Shore Festival is the new name of the traditional Atlantic City AirshowIt's a rebranding with many more activities and events throughout the week.
How much does it cost to attend?
The whole event is gratuitous, including the air show. Some VIP areas are paid.
Where is the best place to watch the show?
Anywhere along the Boardwalk or beach. For elevated views, look for rooftops or oceanfront hotels.
Plan your visit and get ready to enjoy one of the favorite air shows in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.