Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival
The reimagined Atlantic City airshow returns Memorial Day Weekend 2026 with military jets, aerobatic teams, and spectacular aerial performances over the beach and boardwalk.
Quick Facts
May 28-30
Memorial Day Weekend 2026
FREE
Beach & boardwalk viewing
500K+
Expected spectators
Since 2003
Original airshow start
NEW FOR 2026: Rebranded name and Memorial Day Weekend dates (formerly August).
About the Festival
The Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival is the exciting reimagining of the beloved Atlantic City airshow, formerly known as Thunder Over the Boardwalk. After a strategic pause in 2025, the show returns in 2026 with a new name, new dates, and an expanded three-day format.
The move from the traditional August date to Memorial Day Weekend serves multiple purposes: it kicks off the summer tourism season with a spectacular event, avoids the extreme August heat, and gives visitors a full holiday weekend to enjoy Atlantic City's beaches, casinos, dining, and entertainment.
Since its debut in 2003, the Atlantic City airshow has become one of the largest free public events on the East Coast, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators to watch world-class aerial performances against the backdrop of the iconic boardwalk and casino skyline.
What to Expect
Military Demonstration Teams
Elite military teams like the Blue Angels (Navy) or Thunderbirds (Air Force) perform precision aerobatic maneuvers.
Civilian Aerobatic Acts
World-class civilian pilots showcase incredible skills in high-performance aircraft.
Military Flybys
Various military aircraft perform flybys and demonstrations throughout the show.
Vintage Warbirds
Historic military aircraft from WWII and other eras take to the skies.
Best Viewing Spots
Beach at Show Center
BestThe beach between Steel Pier and Resorts Casino offers the most direct views. Aircraft perform maneuvers directly in front of this area.
Tip: Arrive by 9 AM for prime spots. Bring chairs, umbrella, and cooler.
Steel Pier Area
ExcellentNear Steel Pier amusement park. Great views with easy access to food, drinks, and restrooms.
Tip: Good for families. Can ride attractions between acts.
Boardwalk
GoodElevated viewing from the boardwalk. No need for beach gear but can get very crowded.
Tip: Best for those who want to stay mobile. Bring binoculars.
Casino Hotel Pools/Decks
PremiumSeveral casinos offer airshow viewing packages from pool decks and rooftop venues.
Tip: Book well in advance. Usually includes food and drinks.
North Beach
GoodLess crowded than show center. Aircraft still clearly visible, just at more of an angle.
Tip: Better parking options. Good for those avoiding crowds.
Getting There
By Car
- Atlantic City Expressway to AC (from Philadelphia area)
- Garden State Parkway to Exit 38 (from North Jersey/NYC)
- Route 30 (White Horse Pike) from inland areas
Tip: Expect heavy traffic. Leave early or arrive day before.
By Bus
- NJ Transit 551/552 from Philadelphia
- NJ Transit 559 from Lakewood/Toms River
- Casino buses from NYC and surrounding areas
Tip: Many casino buses offer round-trip deals with play credits.
Parking
- Casino garages ($20-40/day)
- Municipal lots near Convention Center
- Street parking (limited, meters)
Tip: Book hotel parking in advance. Garages fill up fast.
Where to Stay
Borgata Hotel Casino
Casino Resort
Premier casino hotel in the marina district. Excellent dining and nightlife. Shuttle to boardwalk.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Casino Resort
On the boardwalk with direct beach access. Rock memorabilia, great pools, and show venue.
Ocean Casino Resort
Casino Resort
Newest boardwalk casino with modern rooms. Excellent rooftop pool for airshow viewing.
Resorts Casino Hotel
Casino Resort
Near show center with Margaritaville theme. Good mid-range option on the boardwalk.
Booking tip: Memorial Day Weekend rates are premium. Book 2-3 months in advance for best selection. Many hotels offer airshow packages with viewing perks.
Tips for Attending
Arrive Early
The best beach spots fill up by mid-morning. Plan to arrive by 9 AM for prime viewing locations near show center.
Sun Protection is Essential
Memorial Day weekend means strong sun. Bring sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, hat, and consider an umbrella or tent.
Bring Supplies
Pack a cooler with water and snacks. Beach chairs, blankets, and binoculars enhance the experience.
Check the Schedule
The show typically runs 11 AM - 4 PM with headline acts in the afternoon. Check the official schedule for exact times.
Consider Staying Overnight
Memorial Day traffic is brutal. Stay the night before or after to avoid highway gridlock.
Protect Your Hearing
Military jets are LOUD. Bring ear protection, especially for children. Available at drugstores.
History of the Atlantic City Airshow
The Atlantic City airshow began in 2003 as Thunder Over the Boardwalk, created to boost tourism and celebrate America's military. The show quickly became one of the largest free events on the East Coast.
For over two decades, the mid-August airshow drew hundreds of thousands of spectators annually. Headliners have included the Navy's Blue Angels, Air Force Thunderbirds, Army Golden Knights parachute team, and numerous civilian performers.
In 2025, organizers announced a "strategic pause" to reimagine the event. The result is the Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival, debuting Memorial Day Weekend 2026 with an expanded three-day format and programming beyond just the airshow.
The date change to late May offers several advantages: launching summer tourism season, avoiding August heat that made beach viewing uncomfortable, and providing a holiday weekend for visitors to enjoy a longer Atlantic City experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Soar & Shore Festival 2026?
The Soar & Shore Festival takes place May 28-30, 2026 (Memorial Day Weekend). This is a change from the traditional August dates of the former Thunder Over the Boardwalk airshow.
Is the Soar & Shore Festival free to attend?
Yes! The airshow is completely free to watch from anywhere along the Atlantic City beach and boardwalk. Some hotels and restaurants offer premium viewing packages for a fee.
Why did the Atlantic City Airshow change its name and date?
The show was rebranded from Thunder Over the Boardwalk to the Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival after a strategic pause in 2025. The move to Memorial Day Weekend kicks off summer tourism season and avoids the extreme August heat.
What aircraft perform at the Soar & Shore Festival?
The festival typically features elite military demonstration teams like the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds, plus civilian aerobatic performers, vintage warbirds, and military flybys. The exact lineup is announced closer to the event.
Where is the best place to watch the airshow?
The show center is typically between Steel Pier and Resorts Casino. The beach between these locations offers the best views. The boardwalk provides elevated viewing but can get crowded. Arrive early for prime spots.
What happened to Thunder Over the Boardwalk?
Thunder Over the Boardwalk ran from 2003-2024 before taking a strategic pause in 2025. It returns in 2026 as the Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival with new dates and expanded programming.
Plan Your Atlantic City Visit
Make the most of Memorial Day Weekend with our complete Atlantic City guide.