Tampa Bay AirFest returns to MacDill Air Force Base for last time until 2027

Kaycee Sloan
·2 min read
1
Tampa Bay AirFest returns to MacDill Air Force Base for last time until 2027

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The highly-anticipated Tampa Bay AirFest at MacDill Air Force kicks off this weekend, and you won’t want to miss it as it’s the last one for three years.

The annual event won’t be held again until 2027 at the earliest due to construction on the base. MacDill is looking to expand its hangars for the new KC-46 Pegasus tanker aircraft that’s coming to the base.

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The United States Air Force Thunderbirds will headline the AirFest. A variety of military and civilian flight performances and aircraft will be on display at the free event as well.

This year, AirFest will start at 8 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, March 29-30.

With the event having something for everyone in the family, WFLA has compiled a list of all the things you need to know before heading to the base.

Where is the AirFest?

The fest will take place at MacDill Air Force Base, located at 9211 Marina Bay Driver in Tampa.

Here are specific points of entry for visitors coming from various parts of the Tampa Bay area:

  • Vehicles coming from South Tampa and areas East of Tampa: Use the Dale Mabry and MacDill Avenue gates.

  • Vehicles coming from areas West of Tampa: Use the South Westshore Boulevard to Interbay to enter the Tanker Way Gate that is just east of Manhattan Avenue.

  • Those with Department of Defense I.D. cards: Use the Bayshore gate only

The AirFest is encouraging guests to use their own means of transportation instead of using ride-share services to minimize confusion and traffic at pick-up and drop-off gates.

Visitors can instead carpool with others or ride their bicycles. However, cyclists must wear helmets and bring a bicycle lock. Those riding their bikes can enter through the MacDill Avenue gate.

What should I bring to AirFest?

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Hearing protection

  • Hats

  • Credit cards, mobile payment, and cash, although ATMS will be available.

  • Empty bottles to fill with water

  • Folding chairs — the backpack-type

  • Something for the kids to do and snacks

Click here for more information.

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