How to Enjoy the Blue Angels During Commissioning Week in Annapolis 🎉

⛵ Boating Tips for Watching the Blue Angels

Planning to watch from the water? It’s an incredible way to see the show – “the #1 place to watch” according to @NaptownScoop. But be prepared: the river will be packed with boats, so stay alert, follow all markers, and listen to officials. Safety first, always!

Restricted Zones & Timing: On Practice Day (Tuesday, May 20), around 10:30 AM the Severn River’s restricted area closes to all unauthorized boat traffic, and it stays closed until after the practice show wraps up around 4:00 PM. On Show Day (Wednesday, May 21), the river closes at 1:30 PM for the main event starting at 2:00 PM. During the show, a temporary channel will be marked by red and green buoys – and no boats can anchor in that channel for safety reasons.

Where to Anchor: Anchor outside the red restricted zones. The best spots include off Greenbury Point (by Carr Creek) and near the Route 50 Bridge. These areas offer clear views without straying into the “flight box.” Arrive early – it gets crowded fast!

Boating Dos and Don’ts:

• ✔️ Make sure your boat is in good working order
• ✔️ Have a sober, designated captain – absolutely no drinking while operating
• ✔️ Pack water, sunscreen, snacks
• ❌ Don’t anchor in the temporary channel
• ❌ Don’t ignore Coast Guard or DNR instructions

Follow the rules, be courteous, and get ready for an unforgettable show from the water! 🚤😎

🏖️ Best Land-Based Viewing Spots & Tips

Don’t have a boat? No problem! Annapolis has plenty of great spots on land to watch the Blue Angels. Here are some favorites:

• U.S. Naval Academy Yard (Hospital Point): Amazing riverfront views. Bring photo ID to enter Gate 1. Arrive early to find a spot by the seawall!
• City Dock & Downtown: A lively crowd gathers here – perfect for those who love the festive atmosphere. Expect heavy crowds and limited parking.
• Spa Creek Bridge & Eastport: Great overhead views from the bridge and street-end parks or marinas in Eastport.
• WWII Memorial & Jonas Green Park: Across the river near the Rt. 450 Bridge. Less crowded and excellent elevated views.
• Quiet Waters Park: For a more relaxed, family-friendly setting. You’ll see some of the aerial maneuvers from a distance.

🚧 Road, Bridge, and Parking Considerations

Naval Academy Bridge Closure: The Rt. 450 Bridge will close to traffic and pedestrians:

• Tuesday, May 20: 10:45 AM – ~3:45 PM
• Wednesday, May 21: 1:45 PM – ~4:00 PM

Parking Tips:

• ✔️ Use Navy-Marine Corps Stadium for parking with free shuttles to Gate 1
• ✔️ Park at Knighton or Park Place Garages and ride the downtown Circulator Shuttle
• ❌ Avoid relying on street parking – it’s limited and heavily enforced

📅 Commissioning Week Highlights

• May 14 – Herndon Climb: 8:00 AM at Herndon Monument. A hilarious and heartwarming tradition to mark the end of plebe year.
• May 20 – Blue Angels Practice: 2:00–4:00 PM over the Severn. Rt. 450 Bridge closed 10:45 AM–3:45 PM.
• May 21 – Blue Angels Air Show: 2:00–4:00 PM. Rt. 450 Bridge closed from 1:45 PM.
• May 22 – Color Parade: 11:00 AM on Worden Field. A must-see for fans of Navy tradition and precision.
• May 23 – Graduation Flyover: 10:04 AM over Navy Stadium. Graduation ceremony is not open to the public, but the flyover is visible citywide.

👉 Click here for the full Commissioning Week schedule

👉 More local info from the City of Annapolis

Whether you're a lifelong local or a first-timer, the Blue Angels during Commissioning Week are one of Annapolis's most cherished traditions. Plan ahead, bring your friends, and enjoy the thrill! 🎊✈️