The Frecce Tricolori, the renowned jet team of the Italian Air Force, dazzled spectators at the California Capital Airshow by releasing vibrant green, white and red smoke, representing the national colors of Italy during its performance.

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The 18th annual California Capital Airshow took over the skies at Mather Airport on July 13 and 14, delivering a weekend packed with aerial acrobatics, educational opportunities and community engagement.

Presented by Sacramento County in partnership with the City of Rancho Cordova, the event celebrated the rich aviation heritage of the Sacramento region while offering an exciting, family-friendly experience. With a diverse lineup of performers and attractions, the airshow proved to be a major draw for aviation enthusiasts from across the state, with nearly 90,000 attendees over two days.

Attendees at the California Capital Airshow could tour large military transport aircraft.

“The airshow is a massive gathering of people. Our Capital Airshow is unlike most because it is all choreographed and narrated and it all has a mission and purpose to tell a story,” said California Capital Airshow Executive Director Darcy Brewer. “The performances are so unique people are coming from all over the state.”

Among the airshow highlights were the impressive performances of the Frecce Tricolori, the Italian Air Force’s renowned jet team, making its only performance in the western United States. Known for spectacular aerobatic displays, the team captivated audiences with their precision and elegance.

California Capital Airshow attendees watched in awe as the jets soared through the skies.

"The Frecce Tricolori are the most mesmerizing and elegant performance I have ever seen in my life," Brewer said. The team’s 10 Italian-built aircraft dazzled spectators with synchronized maneuvers and vibrant red, green and white smoke trails.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds also took center stage, with its F-16 Fighting Falcon jets performing daring aerial stunts. “It’s incredible; they are so loud I hear my bones shake during their performance,” said spectator Patrick Martin.

Another major draw was the F-35 Lightning II Demo and the FA-18 E/F Super Hornet, both showcasing the cutting-edge technology of modern military aviation. The U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III also made a grand appearance, offering a glimpse into the operations of this 250,000 plus pound aircraft.

The Frecce Tricolori jet team signed autographs during a meet-and-greet with California Capital Airshow attendees.

“The F-35 jet is one of my favorites, especially when it slows down in the air. It almost looks like it comes to a complete stop” said Emma Davis when asked what she was most looking forward to seeing at the event.

The Patriot Parachute Team demonstrated their precision jumping skills, featuring former members of elite military units such as Navy SEAL Team, Air Force Wings of Blue and Navy Leap Frogs.

Children were captivated by thrilling night performances at the California Capital Airshow.

On the ground, visitors had the rare opportunity to tour large military transport aircraft such as the C-5 Super Galaxy and the KC-135 Stratotanker. Interactive exhibits provided insights into various missions, including aerial refueling and humanitarian aid. Public safety and first responder displays highlighted the crucial roles that airplanes and helicopters play in law enforcement, medical evacuation and firefighting.

One of the airshow’s unique aspects is its commitment to community engagement and education. As a nonprofit organization, the California Capital Airshow uses the event’s proceeds to fund scholarships, internships and free educational programs throughout the year.

Fireworks and synchronized drones light up the night sky at the grand finale of the California Capital Airshow.

“We decided this is a massive career day in a way,” Brewer explained. “The whole event is designed to share our nation’s rich aviation history, honor veterans and inspire the next generation.”

Volunteers play a huge role in the success of the event.

“We have at any time around 1,000 volunteers,” emphasized media spokesperson Lindsey Nelson.   

Volunteer and team leader Michael Funtes has been involved with the event for six years and emphasized the joy of seeing excited young faces at the show.

“After nearly three decades in Rancho, I found myself drawn into volunteering. It's my way of getting closer to the planes I love,” Funtes said. “Over the past six years, I've met countless genuine people willing to take time out of their day to volunteer. This event is part of the community and is one of the biggest events Rancho has to offer.”

Pilot Mike Kelly, 99th Commander, highlighted his love for flying.

“I think any pilot would say it’s kind of visceral a sense of freedom and adventure. Growing up, I always wanted to be a pilot. It’s a very cool opportunity to be able to fly for the community because this is home,” said Kelly when asked about performing in the show a couple of years ago. “It’s pretty cool that every year we get the big names here. Getting those names out here puts this airshow on the map.”

For those who stayed until the finale, a memorable night awaited with a unique pyrotechnic display. The performance features 500 synchronized drones, fireworks, explosive effects, parachutist and acrobatic planes launching fireworks.

“It’s theatrics, it’s noise, it’s color, it’s just so exciting,” Brewer said.