The Rhyl Air Show, one of North Wales’ most popular summer spectacles, has been cancelled for 2024, and no event is planned for 2025. For fans of fast jets, the Red Arrows, and family fun on the seafront, this marks a major pause in what had become a much-loved tradition.
So what happened, and what does the future hold for air shows—and large-scale summer events—in Rhyl and North Wales?
🛑 Why Was the Rhyl Air Show Cancelled?
In February 2024, Denbighshire Leisure Ltd confirmed the cancellation of the 2024 Rhyl Air Show, citing the unavailability of the Red Arrows due to their 60th anniversary world tour. The RAF display team has long been the headline attraction for the event.
“As the Red Arrows will not be available in 2024, we have decided not to proceed with the event this year.”
— Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, via Rhyl Journal
As of July 2025, there is no official announcement about a 2025 air show returning to Rhyl, and Denbighshire Leisure has made no commitments about future editions.
🔮 Will the Rhyl Air Show Return?
The future of the event remains uncertain.
With the Red Arrows expected to resume UK appearances in late 2025, there is speculation that the Rhyl Air Show could return in 2026 or beyond—especially given its strong track record of drawing over 140,000 visitors and boosting the local economy.
“We look forward to exploring new events and opportunities for Rhyl in future years.”
— Denbighshire Leisure, via North Wales Live
However, future air shows will likely depend on:
- Availability of military and civilian display teams
- Budget allocations for large-scale events
- Public interest and tourism strategies for the town
🎪 What Are the Alternatives in 2025?
While the skies may be quieter, North Wales is far from short on summer fun in 2025. Here are some top events that offer a great alternative for families, tourists, and aviation fans:
🌊 Conwy River Festival – 17–18 August 2025
Set against the historic Conwy Castle backdrop, this festival includes yacht races, RNLI demos, pirate parades, and live music. Great for families!
More info →
🎶 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod – 2–6 July 2025
A world-famous celebration of music and dance. Ideal for culture lovers and great for kids with daytime field performances.
More info →
🌿 Bodnant Garden Summer Nights – Fridays in July
Evening garden walks, live music, and food stalls at one of the UK’s most beautiful gardens near Tal-y-Cafn.
More info →
🐑 Anglesey County Show – 13–14 August 2025
One of Wales’ top agricultural events, featuring livestock shows, crafts, local food, and entertainment.
More info →
📷 Memories That Last – But for Now, On Hold
The Rhyl Air Show has given families unforgettable memories over the years—thundering jets, vintage warbirds, and seaside spectacle. Its absence leaves a gap in the North Wales summer calendar, but it also opens the door for new ideas and future possibilities.
Could we see a reimagined aviation-themed event in future years? A STEM/RAF family weekend? A return in 2026? Only time will tell.
🔍 Stay Updated
Want to be the first to know if the Rhyl Air Show returns?
🔗 Bookmark Denbighshire Leisure and follow Visit Rhyl for official announcements.
✅ Final Thoughts
While we’ll miss the roar of the Red Arrows over the coast this year, North Wales 2025 still offers plenty of summer adventures—from riverside festivals to music, food, and garden evenings.
Rhyl’s events scene is evolving, and with continued public support, big days out like the air show could well return in the near future.