The roar and sight of vintage planes have filled the skies in recent days in preparation for “The Best Little Airshow in the East.”
All eyes will continue to look above at the annual Culpeper Air Fest Saturday beginning at 9 a.m. at Culpeper Regional Airport.
Culpeper County Economic Development Director Carl Sachs said the Air Fest is a microcosm of the Culpeper community.
“It’s an outstanding and eclectic blend of old and new, of traditional values and new frontiers just as Culpeper embraces our history and our future,” he said. “The Air Fest has put Culpeper on the map of the aviation industry.”
According to Sachs, Culpeper Regional Airport is the second busiest general aviation airport in Virginia, calling it a gateway to the community and an economic development engine.
The 16th annual free event celebrates aviation in many forms, notably featuring the world’s only privately-owned British Aerospace Sea Harrier piloted by Guinness World Record holder Art Nalls, a Virginia native. Other highlights of the day-long event, ending at 6 p.m., will include acrobatic flying by the Bealeton Flying Circus, vintage warbirds, wing walking, meet-the-pilots, model aircraft flying, children’s games and airplane rides.
Public parking is available at Culpeper County High School and Eastern View High School with shuttle buses bringing spectators to the airport. Handicapped parking will be available at the airport.
Event organizers, the Culpeper Air Fest Foundation, suggests attendees bring earplugs, cameras, folding chairs, sunscreen and cash for food and treats while leaving behind coolers and tents. They advise that the crowds and aircraft noise can be stressful for pets, who will be much happier if left at home.