After eleven years, the Vertical Challenge Helicopter Air Show is getting a makeover. This June 18 & 19, 2011, marks the debut of HeliFest at the Hiller Aviation Museum. Instead of a single, one-day event, HeliFest gathers several festivals into a two-day, super fun weekend. HeliFest is not an airshow but in keeping with the original theme of Vertical Challenge, HeliFest showcases military and commercial helicopters on display and open to the public for two, full days. HeliFest also features fabulous food, wine and the Bay Area’s finest microbrews. And returning this year is the popular Kid’s Zone that includes slides, rides, face-painting and fun activities that kids love.
Why these changes? Increasingly strict federal regulations regarding air shows and restrictions by local airport management combined with the economic challenges faced by commercial and government helicopter operators, at both the local and state level, have made it necessary to modify Vertical Challenge. Also, with new event partners, food-providers, brewers and other participants, the opportunity exists for creating a unique event never seen before on the San Francisco Peninsula: The result is HeliFest!
Highlights of HeliFest:
- Helicopter Festival – We welcome commercial operators and the United States military with their big helicopters, available and open for the public to explore.
- Microbrew Festival – Enjoy some of the best Microbrews that the San Francisco Peninsula has to offer.
- Wine Festival – For those who enjoy wine with their whirlybirds, this is for you!
- Food Festival – We feature some of the best Bay Area food vendors for your dining pleasure.
- Kids Festival – The little ones will have plenty to do getting face paintings and playing on giant slides and rides.
HeliFest is June 18 & 19, 10am – 4pm
Tickets are $15 adult, $10 youth (5-17) and seniors (65+), kids 4 and under are free.
No VIP passes or discount coupons accepted for HeliFest.