Thunder Over the Sound Air Show canceled because of government shutdown
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Federal shutdown canceled Thunder Over the Sound air show at Keesler.
- The show was set for Nov 1-2 on base and on the beach before cancellation.
- Peter Anderson festival moved to Nov 8-9 to accommodate the Thunderbirds schedule.
The federal government shutdown has led to the cancellation of the Thunder Over the Sound Air Show by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
The show was scheduled Nov. 1-2 at Keesler Air Force Base and on the beach.
Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, normally held the first weekend in November, was moved to the second weekend to accommodate the Thunderbirds’ schedule. The festival will remain on the dates of Nov. 8-9, said Cynthia Sutton, president and CEO of Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce, Ocean Springs Main Street, Ocean Springs Tourism Bureau.
Keesler said in a press release Monday the show was canceled because the lapse in federal funding prevented the base from executing the contracts, safety requirements, and logistical support needed to host the large-scale public event safely and effectively.
It will be two years before the show can return to South Mississippi.
“We know how much this show means to the Gulf Coast community,” said Col. Christopher Robinson, 81st Training Wing commander. “We remain deeply committed to this community and look forward to bringing Thunder Over the Sound back in 2027, stronger than ever.”
Robinson said Keesler reached a point where it can’t move forward without funding.
“This was not an easy decision, but it was the responsible one,” he said.
“Our community, vendors, sponsors and air show teams have been flexible and patient in an effort to keep the show moving forward,” he said.
Keesler said all paid ticket holders will receive a full refund within 5-7 business days.
The show was billed as “The Legacy of Air Force Innovation.” The base typically is open to the public to see the latest planes and equipment before the air show held on Saturday and Sunday. In addition to the Thunderbirds, are several other aeronautic teams and a parachute demonstration team.
This story was originally published October 20, 2025 at 2:15 PM.
