By Samantha Joseph
Staff writer
STUART - About 4,000 people are set to converge on Witham Field for the Stuart Air Show next weekend.
Aerial stunts, pyrotechnics, flight demonstrations, vendor and community booths, live entertainment, aircraft and military equipment displays, a battle reenactment and carnival rides are among a slew of attractions at the Nov. 10-11 event.
But even before aircrafts leave the ground, guests can participate in a kickoff party on Nov. 9.
The Dirty Flight Suit party, which organizers opened to the public for the first time last year, returns with performances by Nashville recording star, Tom Jackson.
Party guests will see the Navy's F-18 demonstration team conduct a flyby. They'll also interact with honorees, and observe a fireworks display, while enjoying food and cocktails.
The party is set for 3:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Nov. 9. Tickets cost $60 in advance and $75 at the gate.
"This is the best part because it has planes, party, fireworks, everything," said Jensen Beach resident Bill Reynolds.
Admission to the airshow is $18 for a one-day pass. Children 10 and younger enter free of charge. Veterans and active-duty military with identification or proof of service also enter free of charge.
Tickets are available from Seacoast National Bank, Dunkin' Donuts, TD Bank, Bob's Barber Shop, ARC of Martin County, Miller's Ale House, the Visiting Nurse Association and the Martin County Convention & Visitor's Bureau.
Representatives of the Road to Victory Military Museum said the group will stage a reenactment of a World War II battle during the show.
The museum is one of several nonprofits that organizers said will benefit from the event. Others include the Martin County Community Foundation, ARC of Martin County, Special Olympics Martin County, Civil Air Patrol, 804th Venture Crew of the Boy Scouts of America and the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs at Centennial and Jensen Beach high schools.
For tickets and more information, visit www.stuartairshow.com.