Southernmost Air Spectacular
On March 25, 1822, Naval Officer Matthew C. Perry and the USS Shark dropped anchor at Key West. Just a year after Lt. Perry surveyed the little island and claimed it as U.S. territory, Commodore Porter arrived to establish the first Naval base in Key West, bringing with him “The Mosquito Fleet.” About a century later, Coast Guard Lt. Stanley Parker made history with the first naval flight from Key West. Since then, countless more aviators have trained at Naval Air Station Key West, including not just those from all branches of the U.S. military but those from allies as well.
The 2023 Southernmost Air Spectacular
The U.S. Navy welcomes visitors to the 200th-anniversary celebration, which features the Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron the Blue Angels as well as a variety of civilian performers. Billed as the Florida Keys’ largest family-oriented event, the Spectacular will include flight exhibitions demonstrating aerial combat maneuvers, military and vintage aircraft displays, civilian aerial performances, and a Kids’ Zone. You and your group can also enjoy concessions throughout the area, and you can even pick up a souvenir or two before you leave the base.
What to Know before You Go
The gates open at 10 a.m., and the Southernmost Air Spectacular begins at 11 a.m. The Blue Angels will be flying at 2:30 p.m. While general admission and parking are free, visitors can also opt for one of two paid seating options, which include several enhanced features.
Preferred Seating starts at just $69 and allows you to choose and reserve your seats, and seating is right on the flight line, ensuring a great view of the show. The Flightline Club takes seating to the next level with a complete VIP experience that includes dining tents, catered snacks and meals, and beverages served throughout the day. Pricing for the Flightline Club starts at $149. Both next-level viewing options come with preferred parking and a dedicated shuttle service to the tarmac.
Where to Stay
Whether you are visiting the Florida Keys just to take in the show or you’re planning on seeing the show during a longer Florida getaway, Mangrove Marina offers the perfect spot for downtime between the thrills of the air show. At Mangrove Marina, you can stay in one of our private luxury houseboats, designed with comfort in mind. Each houseboat is beautifully appointed, and the scenery from the deck is unmatched. The fully equipped kitchens allow you to enjoy a home-away-from-home experience, but our on-site bar and grill can give you more options for meals. Our Marina is a full-service marina with the same amenities you’d expect to find in a resort: gardens, a heated pool, and barbecue facilities with Tiki Huts. We’re conveniently located near shopping, dining, and a wide selection of recreational activities.
At Mangrove Marina, we’re here to help you get more out of your Florida Keys getaway. Contact us today to make your reservations or to find out what other activities you can enjoy during your stay in the Florida Keys.
