WASHINGTON – Hundreds of thousands are expected to descend on Joint Base Andrews over the weekend to soak in the spectacle of the annual 2012 Joint Service Open House and Air Show.
The event will feature performances by the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, and the Golden Knights, the U.S. Army flight parachute team.
But stunt pilots and flying tricks aren’t the only attractions to enjoy. There will be biplanes and custom-made aerobatic planes on display, in addition to other aerial and ground exhibits.
The show opens Friday for school groups and DoD cardholders. The general public can enjoy the show for free when doors open 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19.
After this year’s show, it will become a biennial event instead of an annual event because of budget cutbacks. That means there will be no show next year, but a show is planned for 2014.
Parking is no longer allowed anywhere near the base for security reasons. Attendants must either take Metro to the Branch Avenue Station or drive and park at FedEx Field. Shuttle buses will be provided from both locations and will run inbound from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
It’s important to note the entire event will be outside on hot concrete with little to no shade. Sunscreen is a must.
Here’s what you’re allowed to bring:
- Small coolers (medical Purposes Only)
- Fanny packs
- Purses
- Camera bags (smaller than 1 cubic foot)
- Diaper bags
- Portable lawn chairs
- Collapsible strollers
- Umbrellas
- Collapsible tripod and monopods
Here’s what you CANNOT bring:
- All other coolers (Hard or Soft, unless medically required)
- Backpacks
- Camelbacks
- Narcotics and paraphernalia
- Camera Bags (larger than 1 cubic foot)
- Roller blades, skates, and skateboards
- Weapons (including, but not limited to knives, firearms, explosives, bio/radiological substances)
- Bikes
- Pets
- All food
- Beverages, open or closed (except baby formula)
- No political activity
For more information, check out the show’s website.
WTOP’s Amy Freedman contributed to this report. Follow WTOP on Twitter.
(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)
