Soaring Through Time: The Legacy of the California Capital Airshow under the California Sun
The California Capital Airshow (CCA) has been a cornerstone event in Sacramento County since its inception in. Held annually at Mather Airport, a site with deep-rooted aviation history, the airshow has grown exponentially, captivating audiences with thrilling aerial performances and static displays.
Historical Overview
Established to honor the region’s rich aviation heritage and to inspire future generations, the California Capital Airshow has consistently showcased a blend of military and civilian aviation prowess. Over the years, it has featured elite military demonstration teams such as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, alongside historic warbirds like the P-38 Lightning and the F4U Corsair. These performances serve as living tributes to the evolution of aviation and the valor of those who have served.
The California Capital Airshow tenting by Made in the Shade Tent Rentals.
Attendance and Popularity
The airshow’s popularity is evident in its burgeoning attendance figures. In 2023, the event shattered previous attendance records, drawing over 105,000 attendees over two days of performances by international teams like Italy’s Frecce Tricolori and the USAF Thunderbirds—a testament to its status as a premier aviation spectacle.
Participants and Performers
Each year, the California Capital Airshow curates a diverse lineup of participants that range from modern military jets like the F-35 Lightning II and the F/A-18 Super Hornet to vintage aircraft that harken back to earlier eras of flight. Seeing and touching vintage aircraft allows attendees to connect to aviation’s past. But the airshow is not all about the history of flight, it is also about the show! The event organizers pride themselves on the variety of show stopping displays of skill in flight by solo performers and military and civilian aerobatic teams. The packed weekend schedule offers little rest for weak of heart! A successful mix of flair and precision leads to an exciting experience for all attendees.
We’ve Got You Covered!
Mather Airport’s expansive runway, while ideal for showcasing aircraft, offers little in the way of natural shade. Because there is a lack of natural shade, especially during Sacramento’s sunny months, it makes total sense that renting tents is a necessary component of the event buildout. Recognizing this, the integration of shade structures becomes paramount. Companies like ours are instrumental in providing tenting solutions. In relation to the airshow, we have been covering the event for nearly two decades. There is a real benefit for tenting at this event given the offerings to attendees. VIP viewing areas sheltered. This enhances comfort and safety for attendees at affordable, mid-level, and high level, ultra VIP ticketed experiences. The amazing thing about tents is that while providing protection from the sun, they also contribute to the overall aesthetics and excitement and enjoyment of the event.
Over the last 15+ years, the airshow has teetered between summer and fall. For 2025, organizers have moved the event to March. This move may have the greatest impact on the physical experience for all who plan to attend the event given the heat index during Sept and October in the Sacramento region. Time will tell if this move to spring changes the airshow experience. One real concern for spring is the possibility for rain.
The Unite States Air Force Thunderbird’s practice in the skies above Mather Airport during the tent installation.
The California Capital Airshow stands as a beacon of aviation excellence, drawing crowds from all walks of life to celebrate the marvels of flight. While the skies capture the imagination, thoughtful ground arrangements keep attendees comfortable during breaks in the show schedule.
Get Tickets today! Prices range fro $65 for standard admission to $750 for the ultra exclusive VIP experience.
CALIFORNIA CAPITAL AIRSHOW |
MATHER AIRPORT, SACRAMENTO
MARCH 22-23, 2025
UNITED STATES NAVY BLUE ANGELS
