Atlantic City Airshow Cancels 2025 Event, Takes Break to Reshape Plans
The Greater Atlantic City Chamber canceled next year’s airshow, taking a step back to review its future, costs, and organization of this 20-year event. The boardwalk skies will remain empty for a second year in a row. “The Airshow usually brings a good boom for local businesses, with heavy traffic and large crowds,” said Tom Harris, owner of Vagabond Kitchen and Tap House, to CBS News Philadelphia.
The show looks to return in 2026 after addressing key issues. This year’s event fell apart when a major performer backed out, despite efforts to secure extra funding. Summer businesses that depended on airshow visitors now face uncertainty. After a COVID break in 2020, the show briefly returned in 2021 before running into more problems.
To make up for the loss, the beach town packed its schedule with 200 different events for 2025. Early events include boat shows, wrestling matches, and beer and music festivals. The Pool & Spa Show starts the winter schedule, bringing in 11,000 visitors. Local businesses should see an $11 million boost from this trade show alone.
Changes are happening across the city. Workers began a huge beach restoration project costing $38.2 million. A board game-themed hotel is going up in the Orange Loop, while Borgata adds rooftop access. Officials say this break gives them time to build a stronger event. The Chamber hopes to find the right mix between tourist appeal and local needs when the planes come back
