The U.S. Navy Blue Angels will headline the Air Dot Show in Cocoa Beach on April 11-12, 2026, as part of celebrations for America's 250th birthday. The event, centered at Lori Wilson Park, will feature aerial demonstrations from the Blue Angels and other military teams, with viewing areas stretching from Cocoa Beach Pier to Minutemen Causeway. This marks the first time in five years the Blue Angels have performed on Florida's Space Coast.
The show will include appearances by the F-16 Viper Demo Team, the B-52 Stratofortress, SOCOM Para-Commandos, and the P-51 Mustang Demo Team. It also coincides with the 45th anniversary of the Space Shuttle Columbia's first launch on April 12, 1981. Bryan Lilley, CEO of the Air Dot Show Tour, called the event a 'special moment for our country and for Florida’s Space Coast.'
Demonstrations will include combat search and rescue operations by the 920th Rescue Wing from Patrick Space Force Base and stunt flying by Cocoa Beach-based pilot John Black. Historical displays will feature a B-25J World War II bomber named 'Panchito' and the U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, with admission free to the public. Parking is available at nearby lots, and shuttle buses will transport attendees to the main viewing area. The show has drawn an estimated 50,000 visitors in previous years, according to organizers.