The news everyone wants to hear – The Red Arrows will be returning to the town and putting on a spectacular air display at the start of Swanage Carnival week 2025!
Over the years, the RAF aerobatic team the Red Arrows have entertained the carnival crowds, performing breathtaking manoeuvres over Swanage Bay, but they haven’t visited the town since 2017.
After an eight year absence, look who’s returning to Swanage for 2025!
Opening the show
Now, with no Bournemouth Air Show planned for the foreseeable future, the carnival committee jumped at the chance to extend an invite to the Red Arrows to return to Swanage in Dorset.
Swanage Carnival takes place over eight days from Saturday 26th July to Saturday 2nd August 2025, with the Red Arrows opening the show on the first Saturday.
Red Arrows will be performing in Swanage on Saturday 26th July 2025
The last time that Red Arrows performed in Swanage was in 2017
“True honour”
Secretary of Swanage Carnival Kevin Langdon said
“This is a fantastic attraction for our carnival and a major boost for the town. The Red Arrows are world renowned for their precision and skill and having them as part of our event is a true honour.
“We can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of their display against the stunning backdrop of Swanage.
“The air show is scheduled for the opening day, so make sure to mark your calendars and find the perfect spot to enjoy this unforgettable spectacle.
“Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Swanage Carnival promises an event like no other, with the Red Arrows stealing the show, high above the beautiful Dorset coastline!”
Expect breathtaking manoevres
Good vantage points to watch the air display include Ballard Down
Cirque Du Swanage
Every year, the carnival has a theme and this year it is Cirque Du Swanage, promising a fun-filled circus extravaganza, featuring incredible circus acts, street performers, live music, family-friendly entertainment and now, the world-famous Red Arrows.
The carnival is run entirely by volunteers with no paid staff and is funded mainly by sponsorship and donations.
Once all the costs are covered, any additional money raised is distributed to local charities and good causes. In 2024, a record-breaking £30,900 was given away.
Jet propelling income from tourism!
Boost to local economy
The eight day carnival – one of the biggest events on the South Coast – also contributes to the local economy by bringing visitors from far and wide to the town.
With the added attraction of the Red Arrows, it is all set to be a bumper week for Swanage’s cafes, restaurants, hotels, B and Bs and campsites.
Further information
- More about Swanage Carnival
- More about the RAF Red Arrows
