News Summary
The MCAS Beaufort Air Show drew an estimated 100,000 attendees last weekend, providing a thrilling experience while significantly boosting local businesses. Popular establishments reported sales spikes, with some seeing increases of 20-40%. Beyond the aerial displays of the Blue Angels and Golden Knights, the event offered family-friendly activities, reinforcing the community’s enthusiasm for such events. Preparations two years in the making culminated in a seamless execution, promising even more excitement for the next show in 2027.
Excitement Soars in Beaufort as Massive Air Show Delights Crowds and Boosts Local Businesses
This past weekend, the lovely city of Beaufort was buzzing with excitement as the MCAS Beaufort Air Show attracted an estimated 100,000 attendees. It was a spectacular event that not only thrilled aviation enthusiasts but also gave a tremendous boost to local businesses. In short, it was a win-win for everyone involved!
Local Businesses Reap the Rewards
The air show was a free event, meaning that everyone could join in on the fun without spending a dime on admission. However, local shops and eateries made out like bandits! For instance, Kaitlynn Vassalle, co-owner of Urban Brew + Co., reported a significant spike in sales over the weekend thanks to the influx of visitors. This sentiment was echoed across many establishments in the area.
Take the Drive-In restaurant, for example. They had their biggest sales day of the year on Saturday! Similarly, Bricks on Boundary experienced a remarkable 20% increase in sales and was forced to close early on Sunday because they literally ran out of food. Talk about a successful weekend!
If that wasn’t enough, the HWY 21 Drive-In saw a whopping 40% increase in sales, while the ever-popular Blackstone Café enjoyed a healthy 25% bump in customers. Urban Brew + Co. has seen a steady stream of visitors during past air shows as well, enjoying the lively atmosphere and delicious local brews.
Thrilling Aerial Performances and Community Connection
The air show featured jaw-dropping performances from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Army Golden Knights, and various civilian aerial performers. The crowd was treated to a visual spectacle that left many in awe. Beyond the thrilling aerial acts, there were also ground activities that catered to the whole family, including helicopter rides, monster truck rides, and bounce houses for the kids, making it a great outing for families.
Pilot Major Brandon Wilkins from the Blue Angels team, a native of Beaufort, was particularly excited to perform in front of his hometown crowd. The engagement from local Marines and sailors was palpable, with a noticeable buzz in the air as they showcased their aerial prowess.
Preparation Meets Execution
With expectations soaring for over 100,000 attendees, the team at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort had been preparing diligently for the air show over the past two years. The preparation paid off as the execution of the event went seamlessly, much to the delight of everyone present. It was not just a showcase of amazing flying skills but also an opportunity to promote Marine Corps and Navy recruiting efforts while expressing genuine gratitude to the surrounding communities.
Mark Your Calendars for 2027
The energy and enthusiasm of the air show clearly showed how deeply the local community values such events. If you missed out this time, don’t fret! The next MCAS Beaufort air show is already scheduled for 2027, and by the looks of it, you won’t want to miss it! With such an incredible turnout and the benefit to local businesses, we can expect even more excitement in the future.
In the meantime, the buzz in Beaufort is sure to linger, and local businesses are reveling in the aftermath of this fantastic air show. So, the next time you’re in Beaufort, don’t forget to support your local shops and dining spots that are at the heart of this charming community!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Summerville Business Owner Wins State Award
University of South Carolina Excels in National Rankings
Elgin, South Carolina Shaken by 2.3 Magnitude Earthquake
Columbia, South Carolina Celebrates Earth Month with Sustainability Initiatives
Jim Clyburn’s Town Hall in Beaufort County Addresses Veterans’ Rights
Beaufort County Women Veteran Honored in National Initiative
Jan Koum’s Super Yacht Mogambo Makes Waves in South Carolina
US-China Trade Talks Heat Up with Mixed Messages
Beaufort Executive Airport Begins Runway Maintenance Project
Beaufort Prepares for a Colorful Display at Southern Comforts Quilt Show
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Rob Holland Beaufort Air Show
- Wikipedia: Air Show
- Live 5 News: Over 100K Expected at Beaufort Air Show
- Google Search: Beaufort Air Show
- Post and Courier: Blue Angels Air Show Beaufort, SC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Air Show
- Explore Beaufort SC: MCAS Beaufort Air Show
- Google News: Beaufort Air Show 2025
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
