Celebrate the 30th Anniversary Fireworks Display at Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow, one of the most spectacular events on the south coast.

From Thursday, 15th August to Sunday, 18th August, Eastbourne will host a four-day airshow extravaganza, culminating in a breathtaking firework finale on Sunday evening. Sponsored by the Eastbourne Hospitality Association and Frontier Fireworks, this anniversary celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience. Here’s everything you need to know about the event.

The Firework Finale

The highlight of Airbourne 2024 is the fantastic 30th anniversary firework finale, set to light up the sky on Sunday evening.

The display will take place at the Wish Tower beach starting at 9pm and before the fireworks, Radio Airbourne will get the party started with music on the seafront from 8pm.

You can expect a series of surprises, including a stunning 750ft high sequence to celebrate Airbourne’s milestone birthday. Plus, the display will also feature a red and gold D-Day tribute in honour of the 80th anniversary year and a spectacular red, white, and blue homage to the Red Arrows diamond anniversary, meaning there'll be plenty of fireworks fun to enjoy.

The Airbourne Flying Displays

Alongside the fireworks, the four-day airshow will be packed with thrilling flying displays. Highlights are set to include performances by the Typhoon, Tutor, and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. 

On Thursday, the Red Arrows will perform a special 60th anniversary display, adding to the excitement and other highlights are set to include:

• Swedish Air Force Historic Flight: Draken: Catch this unique display on Thursday and Friday, featuring the iconic Draken fighter jet.
• Bronco Demo Team: From Thursday to Sunday, the Bronco Demo Team will perform daring stunts and impressive formations.
• Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers: Watch as these brave wingwalkers perform acrobatic feats on top of flying planes from Thursday to Sunday.
• Rich Goodwin's Jet Pitts: Known for his spectacular aerobatic displays, Rich Goodwin will be performing with his Jet Pitts from Thursday to Sunday.

The flying programme kicks off around lunchtime each day and will finish at around 5pm. All displays will take place along the display line between the Western Lawns and the Pier, offering prime viewing positions along the seafront.

Where to Watch the Displays

To get the best view of the airshow and the fireworks, head to the seafront where you’ll be at the frontline of all the action. The area will be bustling with trade stands and the expansive beach is the perfect spot to catch both the flying displays and the firework finale.

For a more exclusive experience, you can reserve seating with excellent views across the air display line. Options include Grandstand Seating, Promenade Seating, and Bandstand Airshow Seating, starting at £25 per person.

Note that these seating areas will close at 5:30pm each day, so you'll need to find another spot for the fireworks display. You can book seating here.

Park n' View Options

For a unique viewing experience, consider the Park n' View car park at Dencher, Beachy Head, located near the pub. This spot offers fantastic views of the flying displays over Eastbourne. Toilets and refreshments are available on-site. Arrive early to avoid traffic queues and secure a good spot.

Supporting Airbourne

While all of the airshow displays and the fireworks are free, donations are encouraged to help keep this fantastic event running.

You can set up a monthly donation or make a one-off contribution and your support ensures the continuation of this beloved event. To donate, visit here.

Official programmes and souvenir pin badges are also available for £10 each, allowing you to take a piece of the event home with you.

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