The Duluth Airshow scheduled for July 18-19 has been postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Next year's event will take place June 26-27 and will feature the United States Navy Blue Angels along with most, if not all of the current lineup of performers, according to a news release.
The airshow draws around 50,000 spectators from around the Midwest in a weekend; a gathering of that size would create unnecessary risk for the community this year, the news release read.
Tickets purchased for the 2020 show will be honored at the 2021 show, unless ticket holders choose to receive a refund. Further information will be sent to ticket holders via email.
Because the airshow has an economic impact of about $10 million annually, event organizers encourage ticket holders to keep their plans to visit the Duluth area in order to minimize the impact that will be felt by the hospitality and tourism industry.
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“While gathering in large crowds for an event like the Duluth Airshow poses a health risk to our community, we would still love for you to visit when it is safe to do so," Duluth Airshow President Ryan Kern said. "Spread out and take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Duluth and the North Shore.”
The postponement allows the show more time to be fully prepared to gather next summer, an announcement to partners stated.
The decision to postpone the airshow was based on the unknowns at this time and a commitment to being good stewards of resources committed to the show. High priority is placed on the safety of performers, vendors, volunteers, partners and spectators.
The News Tribune is a sponsor of the Duluth Airshow.
This story was updated at 9:28 a.m. May 20 with additional information from airshow officials and at 11:22 a.m. May 20 to include disclosure of the News Tribune's sponsorship. It was originally posted at 8:29 a.m. May 20.
