SIGNATURE ANNUAL EVENTS
Heritage events throughout the seasons honor our past and build community
THE CAPE CORONADO BLIMP 500
The most spectacular aerial event in America! Watch vintage and replica blimps race around a 15-mile coastal course at speeds up to 80 mph in this thrilling tribute to our aerial defenders.
🏆 LEGENDARY PILOTS COMPETING
See the world's best blimp racers including Geoff Jordan (3-time champion), Gale Indheart (speed record holder), Ali Onser Jr. (rookie sensation), "Crash" Murphy (comeback king), Isabella "Izzy" Windham (first female champion), Viktor Skyborne (European champion), and "Lightning" Lou Harper (fan favorite)!
🏁 RACE WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS
- Saturday Practice: Qualifying rounds and time trials
- Sunday Main Race: The Cape Coronado Blimp 500 championship
- Monday Memorial: Victory ceremony and heroes' tribute flyover
- Pit Tours: Meet pilots and see historic aircraft up close
- Air Show: Precision flying demonstrations and vintage aircraft
"Faster than the wind, braver than the storm"
VICTORY DAY PARADE
Celebrate the anniversary of victory over the Nazi blimp fleet with our grand memorial parade. Watch vintage military vehicles, marching bands, and veterans honor the heroes who defended our skies.
Special Feature: Flyover by restored WWII aircraft and the ceremonial lighting of the victory beacon.
HERITAGE ARTS FESTIVAL
Independence Day weekend celebration featuring local artists, traditional crafts, and cultural performances. Experience the creativity that flourished even during wartime.
- Artisan Marketplace: 100+ local and regional artists
- Traditional Crafts: Blacksmithing, woodworking, textile arts
- Live Music: Military bands and folk performers
- Food Festival: Period-authentic recipes and modern fare
FIRST ATTACK COMMEMORATION
A moving ceremony marking the date when the first enemy blimp appeared over our shores. Honor the quick thinking and courage that began our legendary defense.
Ceremony Includes: Memorial wreath laying, 21-gun salute, lighthouse beacon recreation, and reading of heroes' names.
HARVEST HERITAGE FAIR
Autumn celebration showcasing how our community maintained traditions and morale during wartime. Family-friendly activities celebrate harvest season and community resilience.
- Pumpkin Festival: Carving contests and autumn decorations
- Harvest Market: Local produce and artisan goods
- Historical Cooking: Demonstrations of wartime rationing recipes
- Family Activities: Hayrides, corn maze, traditional games
MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE
Solemn ceremonies honoring all who gave their lives in defense of freedom, with special recognition for our 47 fallen sky defenders. A day of reflection and gratitude.
Traditional Observance: Dawn service, flag placement, veterans' march, and community barbecue.
WINTER HERITAGE MARKET
Cozy holiday market celebrating how our community maintained hope and tradition during the darkest days of war. Perfect for holiday shopping with historical charm.
- Handmade Crafts: Traditional gifts and decorations
- Warm Foods: Hot cider, roasted nuts, period treats
- Holiday Caroling: Wartime songs and seasonal favorites
- Children's Activities: Ornament making and story time