San Diego Bayfair Offers Free Admission to Military

Active military and reservists looking for something free to do this weekend are in luck. For the second year, military men and women will receive free admission to the San Diego Bayfair on Sept. 16-18.

“I think you’ve got to give back to the community, and you’ve got to give back to the military because they have such a big presence here,” said Jeff Thomas, chairman of San Diego Bayfair’s Board of Governors. “It’s the right thing to do."

The free military admission policy was initiated last year when the Air National Guard became an event partner.

Thomas, whose father is a retired rear admiral, added organizers also work closely with the Wounded Warrior Project and have designated seating at the venues for service members from the organization. 

“We like to have the military here,” Thomas said.

Thomas said there will be three venues at the 47th annual San Diego Bayfair, which organizers refer to as the “World Series of powerboat racing.”

The three-day event will feature more than 120 boats, including the Air National Guard Hydroplane and Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing series.

Thomas said roughly 80,000 people attend the on-water competitions each day.

“We’re going to have some of the fastest boats in the world here competing,” he said.

The San Diego Bayfair will also showcase 27 bands, playing a variety of music, including rock, hip-hop and reggae. Each band will play a 45-minute set on the Air National Guard stage. In addition, there will be a kids’ zone, food booths and beer gardens.

“Good weather, family atmosphere—come on down and enjoy yourself,” Thomas said.

General admission to the San Diego Bayfair on Mission Bay costs $20-$30. Active military, reservists and children ages 12 and younger are free. Military dependents can purchase a three-day Super Pass that includes access to the pits for $20.

General parking is located on Fiesta Island. Shuttle hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

To purchase tickets, call 760-789-8870 or visit sandiegobayfair.org.