The skies over Annapolis will thunder with excitement today, May 21, 2025, as the Blue Angels Annapolis 2025 air show officially lifts off for this year’s U.S. Naval Academy Commissioning Week. From breathtaking loops to knife-edge passes, the roar of the jets marks one of the most anticipated moments of the spring calendar—and this year, it’s more than just a show. It’s a symbol of precision, heritage, and honor.
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✈️ Blue Angels Annapolis 2025 Air Show Takes Off Today!
All eyes are on the Severn River as the Blue Angels Annapolis 2025 main performance begins today at 2:00 p.m. Following yesterday’s electric rehearsal, anticipation has skyrocketed across town. Thousands of locals and tourists have lined the Naval Academy seawalls, City Dock, and nearby bridges to catch the thunderous display overhead.
River closures began at 1:30 p.m. sharp. Officials have emphasized safety, urging boaters to remain outside the restricted zones. The airspace is tight, the maneuvers are tighter—and the excitement is real.
👨✈️ Meet the Stars of the Sky
This year’s lineup features elite pilots with strong ties to the Naval Academy:
- Cmdr. Adam Bryan, the flight leader, is a proud graduate of the Class of 2005.
- Cmdr. Thomas Zimmerman flies as lead solo, performing the daring low-altitude rolls.
- Lt. Connor O’Donnell, Class of 2015, handles the opposing solo role.
- Maj. Scott Laux, serving as narrator, energizes the crowd with insider commentary.
The team arrived earlier this week and have been engaging with midshipmen and the Annapolis community. They’re not just performers—they’re role models and mentors.
🌤️ Weather Conditions: Clear Skies, Full Throttle
As of this morning, weather conditions are perfect for a full-performance show. Clear visibility, moderate winds, and blue skies provide the ideal backdrop. Officials stated that unless there is a last-minute shift in cloud cover or safety concerns, the team will fly a complete routine.
There was some concern about rain earlier in the week, but the system moved east overnight, ensuring today’s main event can proceed as planned.
🛥️ Where to Watch the Magic
Here are the top viewing points if you’re headed out today:
| Location | Best For |
|---|---|
| City Dock | Family-friendly access |
| Naval Academy Bridge | Panoramic aerial views |
| Eastport | Photos and drone footage |
| Severn River (by boat) | Water-based spectatorship |
Bring your chairs, cameras, and sunscreen. Early birds got the best seats hours ago, but there’s still time to find a spot.
🎓 Graduation Flyover to Conclude Annapolis 2025 Events
The final salute from the Blue Angels will take place during the U.S. Naval Academy’s graduation ceremony on Friday, May 23, 2025, around 10:04 a.m. This symbolic flyover honors the Class of 2025 and closes out the ceremonial week in dramatic fashion.
Expect a tight, six-jet diamond formation followed by solo high-speed passes. It’s a moment where patriotism, honor, and tradition converge at full throttle.
📋 Important Safety and River Navigation Rules
During today’s air show and Friday’s flyover:
- Restricted River Zones are strictly enforced.
- No anchoring is allowed within performance boundaries.
- Preferred anchoring is outside the eastern and western sectors of the Severn.
- All drones are banned in the flight corridor.
- Pedestrians on the Naval Academy Bridge should stay clear of outer lanes.
Law enforcement and the U.S. Coast Guard are on high alert to ensure a smooth event.
🔊 What to Expect During the Show
The Blue Angels’ demo runs just over 45 minutes, and the experience is fully immersive. Expect:
- Precision Loops & Rolls – showcasing wingtip-to-wingtip alignment.
- Sneak Passes – high-speed flybys that startle even the alert.
- Diamond Formation – four jets in perfect sync just 18 inches apart.
- Opposing Solo Crossovers – dramatic near-misses that draw gasps.
- Fat Albert C-130 Flyover – the team’s iconic support aircraft performs tactical turns.
You’ll feel the sound in your chest before you even look up.
✍️ History Behind the Hype
The Blue Angels have performed in Annapolis for over 75 years, aligning each display with the spirit and discipline of the Naval Academy. Each spring, midshipmen and Maryland locals look to the skies to witness tradition take flight.
Since their formation in 1946, the Blue Angels have flown for more than 500 million people across the world. Yet, their Annapolis appearance remains uniquely intimate—because here, it’s not just a performance, it’s homecoming.
📣 Annapolis 2025: More Than an Air Show
Why do so many people travel to Annapolis just for this week? Because this event is more than just a thrill ride. It’s a snapshot of American excellence. A reminder of service. A moment where generations gather, kids dream bigger, and veterans salute in reverence.
Hotels are fully booked, restaurants are bustling, and streets are filled with energy. The economic boost is huge—but the emotional uplift is even greater.
🔚 The Final Verdict on Blue Angels Annapolis 2025
With perfect weather, a top-tier pilot team, and a seamless setup, Blue Angels Annapolis 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most memorable shows in recent years. If you haven’t made it yet, there’s still time to catch Friday’s grand finale.
This isn’t just about jets and noise—it’s about pride, performance, and people. The 2025 edition reminds us why we look up.
✅ Final Checklist Before You Go
- 📍 Check the route and best access point
- 🧢 Bring sun protection and water
- 📵 Leave drones and pets at home
- 📸 Charge your camera
- 🕒 Arrive at least 90 minutes early