FORT WORTH, Texas — The total solar eclipse really made people understand why so many travel to actually experience the natural phenomenon instead of letting photos do all the talking.
So often, we consume what we see online and chalk it up to: 'Oh, well, what's so special about that?'
If that was your attitude before the eclipse—and you were proven wrong, another unforgettable experience you have to see for yourself is happening this weekend in Fort Worth.
The Blue Angels return to perform shows for spectators for the first time in North Texas since 2020 — when the team flew breathtaking formations over Dallas and Fort Worth for frontline medical workers during the pandemic as a show of support.
Before that, they last had two conventional shows in 2019 at the decades-long-performing Alliance Air Show in Fort Worth, which has since bellied up.
On Saturday and Sunday, the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base will be the new host during its 'Wings Over Cowtown' air show, which the Blues will headline.
It's the first air show at the station since 2016 — and the base's Commanding Officer, Captain Beau Hufstetler, said a big turnout is expected.
"We anticipate about 50,000 people coming out here each day," Hufstetler said. "Obviously, the Blue Angels are a huge pull, and there's been a ton of buzz surrounding their visit."
The base announced on Friday that Saturday and Sunday parking passes on base have been claimed. Folks can still park at Ridgmar Mall for both days, where there will be a shuttle.
The best part of it all? The show is free.
The NAS JRB also has a special connection to the Blues. Even though the team practices and is headquartered in Pensacola, FL, its support aircraft, 'Fat Albert', receives maintenance at the base, as do many C-130s.
Fat Albert is a fan favorite and flies before each show begins. A retired 'Fat Albert' is actually at the base and can be seen along 183.
"We're lucky to have gotten a retired one here that everyone can see," Hufstetler said.
For many service members, veterans and even fans, the Blues symbolize pride for the military.
That's how Hufstetler sees it—and hopes others do, too.
"It never gets old for me—they're going to put on some sweet shows," he said.