This year’s English Riviera Airshow promises to be better than ever as organisers announce a wide range of new additions.

For the first time in the Airshow’s history, there will be a special opening night on the Friday before the event (31 May). Members of the public are invited to Paignton Green from 6pm to 10pm where they can kick off the weekend and enjoy a great line-up of live music headlined by The Barefoot Bandits. As with the rest of the Airshow, the opening night is free to attend and there will be plenty of food and drink stands to choose from.  

Music lovers will be pleased to hear that this year’s Airshow will feature live music all weekend from Friday (31 May) to Sunday (2 June) on Paignton Green. Music will fill the air as we showcase incredible acts, BBC Devon introducing artists, and local bands playing into the night. Devon-based 10-piece band Joey the Lips will headline at 9:15pm on Saturday. Meanwhile, Sunday will feature a range of local bands and artists such as Harbour Band, AJ & Elliot and The Vinyl Avengers. To see the full line up of live music and timings visit www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk 

Another new addition for 2024 is our static spitfire. Visitors can see the classic fighter aircraft up close or choose to pose for a professional photograph (charges apply). Meanwhile, the event village will include a new Artisan marquee featuring premium crafts, gifts, food and drinks from local businesses.

This year’s Airshow will also have an event village on Preston Green. Visitors can enjoy a variety of stalls, catering stands and a bar while watching the breathtaking aerial displays taking place over the weekend.

For those who can’t make it in person, Aeroview TV will be covering the English Riviera Airshow live on their Youtube channel. With three cameras to cover the event, it’s a fantastic way to view and listen to the Airshow, especially if you can’t get to the event villages or want to avoid the crowds and noise. To find out more visit https://aeroview.tv/english-riviera-airshow/ 

If you want to enhance your Airshow experience, there is a range of additional paid-for services not seen in previous years. For just £25, enjoy the dedicated seating area filled with deckchairs and reserved for premium seating guests only. Alternatively for £35, you can upgrade to a premium seating package which will give you access to luxury WC facilities so that you don’t need to queue. There is a limited amount of seating, so people are advised to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Organisers are also offering a VIP Hospitality package in partnership with Mercure Hotels. For £1000 (for a table of ten), you and your guests will enjoy private premium viewing areas, locally crafted beverages, delectable street food and live music in our private entertainment space. This is a luxury experience not to be missed.

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council, said: ‘‘Everyone has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this year’s English Riviera Airshow bigger and better than ever. The two-day spectacular is jam-packed with displays, attractions and activities that will keep the whole family entertained. Do come along and enjoy what is set to be a fantastic weekend for the Bay.’’

To find out more about all these opportunities and to sign up for the latest Airshow newsletters visit www.englishrivierairshow.co.uk

Make a weekend of it

Make a Weekend of it with us this June. Enjoy two-days of exciting free entertainment, experience the English Riviera’s hospitality, and explore everything the area has to offer. Plan your English Riviera Airshow break via www.englishrivierairshow.co.uk

The official travel partner Great Western Railway offers direct routes to the English Riviera and the Airshow location. Plan and book your journey via www.gwr.com 

About the English Riviera Airshow

The English Riviera Airshow, held annually since 2016, is the UK’s premier aviation event. It combines thrilling flying displays with ground-based festivities, captivating audiences of all ages. The Airshow is a collaborative effort supported by Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, local businesses and organisations, and aviation enthusiasts.