Wildwood’s Thunder Over the Waves Airshow Returning in 2026

After a highly successful first year, the "Thunder Over the Waves Airshow" will return to the Wildwoods in 2026, with a practice day on September 11 and the airshow on September 12.

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority confirmed next year's show on Wednesday.

Wildwood is Very Happy With Airshow's First Year

“We’re thrilled to bring the Airshow back next year. The 2026 Airshow promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring an expanded lineup of impressive performers.

The debut of our inaugural Thunder Over the Waves Airshow exceeded all expectations. Our goal was to present a family-friendly event that would entice visitors to return to our island the weekend after Labor Day.

The Airshow rivaled the attendance and excitement of our largest midsummer weekends,” explained Louis M. Belasco, GWTIDA Executive Director.

Wildwood Has a New 'Second Season' Event

The press release announcing next year's Thunder Over the Waves Airshow makes it clear just how happy the Wildwoods were with this year's show.

The 2025 Airshow attracted over 133K visitors to the resort and generated an estimated $33.2M in economic impact.

The inaugural Airshow debuted in the Wildwoods, thrilling spectators while kicking off the Wildwoods’ Second Season’ schedule of fall events.

 

 

The vibrant autumn months following summer in the Wildwoods are filled with exciting events and festivals, fewer summer crowds, lower hotel rates, mild temperatures, beautiful beach days, and many dining options.

 

 

Events like the Thunder Over the Waves Airshow give visitors even more reasons to experience the Wildwoods well beyond the typical summer season.

The Thunder Over the Waves Airshow featured 15 headline aerial acts executing aerobatic performances ranging from custom-built planes to military aircraft and highly skilled aerialists and impressive parachuters.

Crowds were treated to the thrill of the airshow performers in addition to multiple island-wide events that took place throughout the weekend.