2024 Bluebonnet Airshow: Rainout Doesn't Deter Enthusiasts
Burnet, Texas, March 20, 2024 - Despite the inclement weather, the Bluebonnet Airshow, held last Saturday, March 16, saw remarkable attendance from the community of aviation enthusiasts. The Highland Lakes Squadron, the host of the event, welcomed over 3,000 attendees, making it one of the top five attended airshows in its 32-year history, according to Squadron Leader Kirk Noaker.
Anticipating the challenging weather conditions, organizers braced themselves for a tough day. The grim forecast predicted rain and high winds, making it difficult for aircraft to arrive and for tents to be set up. However, despite the adverse conditions preventing airplanes from taking to the skies, attendees were treated to various ground activities. These included pyrotechnic displays, ground demonstrations, appearances by World War II veterans, the iconic 501st Legion Stormtroopers, the immersive Top Gun cockpit experience, Living History presentations, an impressive hangar museum, and a plethora of food and merchandise vendors.
Rain showers didn't stop the pyro team from performing.
Airshow officials expressed gratitude for the understanding shown by the majority of attendees, acknowledging the disappointment but also recognizing the effort to salvage the event. However, some frustrations surfaced on social media platforms, prompting honest responses from show officials. They acknowledged the disappointment caused by the uncooperative weather and the discrepancies in the aviation weather forecasts. They emphasized their dedication to making the best of the situation and highlighted the support for the Commemorative Air Force's mission to educate, inspire, and honor.
Airshow Director Tim Reynolds said, “While we were let down by not having the show we wanted, we were overjoyed by the crowd. Looking into the crowd of families covered in ponchos making the best of it showed how much the people of Burnet, Texas, support having the local Commemorative Air Force Unit in the community.”
Looking ahead, organizers announced the return of the Bluebonnet Airshow in March 2025, promising an even more spectacular and unforgettable experience. Despite the challenges this year, the commitment to delivering an unbelievably entertaining show remains unwavering. The Bluebonnet Airshow is a testament to the resilience of aviation enthusiasts and organizers, demonstrating their unwavering passion for honoring the past, educating the present, and inspiring the future. The Highland Lakes Squadron would like to thank the many volunteers, performers, and vendors who worked hard to assemble the show and be flexible when the weather required changes. Additionally, they would like to thank the sponsors: City of Burnet, J-Bar, Burnet County Tourism, Crosby Flying Services, and H-E-B for their continued support.
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