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  • Don’t Miss These 7 Fall Airshows Throughout the DMV
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Don’t Miss These 7 Fall Airshows Throughout the DMV

Watch aerobatic performances, meet the pilots, and get an up-close look at historic planes.

By Michele Kettner August 31, 2026 at 7:00 am

Whether you love flying, are obsessed with historic aircraft, or just want to enjoy a day in the community, then you can’t go wrong by spending your day at an airshow. Mark your calendar for these seven airshows coming to the DMV in September and October.

The Flying Circus Airshow

Select weekends from September 6 through October 25, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Catch the one of the last 2026 shows of The Flying Circus. From May to October, the circus brings together antique aircraft, wing walkers, and aerobatic performances for a show like no other. Standard and aerobatic airplane ride tickets are also available for purchase. 5114 Ritchie Rd., Bealeton, $10–$20, free for children under 5

NAS Oceana Air Show

September 19–20, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Celebrate the country’s 250th birthday at one of the Navy’s premier aviation events. Hosted at the Naval Air Station Oceana, this year’s air show will showcase a lineup full of military and civilian performers. Prepare for a full day as you watch performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and SkyGoats of the U.S. Naval Academy, experience interactive STEM exhibits, and explore the aircraft seen in the sky. NAS Oceana: 1750 Tomcat Blvd., Virginia Beach, $15–$150

Wings Wheels & Keels

September 26, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Planes aren’t the only thing you’ll find at this 30th annual event. In addition to the automobiles, aircraft, and boats, visitors will have the chance to win prizes and explore local food and craft vendors. Hummel Airfield: 310 Planeview Rd., Topping, free

Leesburg Airshow

September 26, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

There’s plenty to look forward to at the Leesburg Airshow, from the aircraft and performers taking flight to the attractions and activities on the ground. Take a walk down the tarmac to see the “Spirit of Freedom,” grab a bite from a local concession stand, and enjoy the kids’ activities, before grabbing a seat for the aerial performances, which begin at 1 p.m. Leesburg Executive Airport: 1001 Sycolin Rd., Leesburg, free

Frederick Festival of Flight

October 3, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

The fourth annual Festival of Flight takes off the first weekend of October. Festival goers get to take a tour of the airport, meet the local pilots that fly in and out of Frederick, and get an up-close look of the local aircraft. The festival also includes plane rides, a kid zone, and reenactors. Frederick Municipal Airport: 310 Aviation Way, Frederick, Maryland, free

Helicopter Day

October 3, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Instead of historic planes and performances, head to Williamsburg for a day dedicated to helicopters. Each year, the Virginia Helicopter Association throws its family-friendly event that gets you up close to choppers of all sizes. The event will feature static displays, aviation education, the “Helicopter Olympics,” and helicopter rides. Waltrip Williamsburg Executive Airport: 100 Marclay Dr., Williamsburg, free

Culpeper Air Fest

October 10, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

High-flying aerobatic acts, vintage planes, and jaw-dropping stunts return to the annual Culpeper Air Fest. Dubbed “The best little airshow in the East,” the festival brings family-friendly fun to the region, while also honoring historic military aircraft. Culpeper Regional Airport: 12517 Beverly Ford Rd., Brandy Station, free

Feature image courtesy The Flying Circus

Michele Kettner

Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.

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