Thunderbirds set to return for 2026 California Capital Airshow at Mather

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will return to Sacramento in October 2026 to headline the 20th annual California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport near Rancho Cordova.

Organizers announced Tuesday that the precision flying team will perform during the weekend show scheduled for Oct. 10-11, in a celebration dedicated to the nation’s 250th birthday. The milestone event is expected to draw large crowds from across the region, organizers said in the announcement.

“The 2026 airshow promises to be one of the most thrilling yet,” organizers said in a statement, calling it a “jaw-dropping show for the Sacramento region and beyond.”

In March, the air show saw a record-setting turnout of 146,872 attendees over two days, featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, 295 aircraft in all, and more than 200 acres of interactive aviation exhibits. That event sold out.

“This year’s record-breaking attendance shows how important this event is to the Sacramento region,” Terrence McNamara, chairman of the California Capital Airshow Board of Directors, said following the show.

The Thunderbirds last appeared at the air show in 2024 alongside Italy’s Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team and performed at Beale Air Force Base in June.

Formed in 1953, the Thunderbirds are one of the Air Force’s longest-standing demonstration units. They currently fly the F-16C Fighting Falcon and showcase high-speed, close-formation flying in a four-plane configuration.

Tickets for the 2026 air show are not yet on sale. Organizers encourage those interested to join the event’s mailing list at californiacapitalairshow.com for early access and updates.

This story was originally published December 2, 2025 at 8:05 AM.