Sidmouth airshow organisers are calling on supporters to buy raffle tickets or help collect donations in a bid to safeguard the event’s future amid rising costs.
The town council recently announced the full 2026 Sidmouth Regatta Airshow line-up, where on Friday, August 28, all eyes will be on the skies for the Red Arrows, Aerosuperbatics Wing Walkers Duo, Navy Wings Fairey Swordfish, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight C47 Dakota, Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts Muscle Plane, and The Stampe Display Team 1930s barnstorming bi-planes.
Airshow and regatta fun is expected to start at around 4pm, on Friday, August 28. Full details of events and airshow timings will be announced nearer the time.
Regatta Airshow Grand Draw raffle tickets are now on sale, with a host of prizes, plus the chance to win VIP all-day tickets to the 2027 Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival, and tickets to headline performances at the 2027 Sidmouth Folk Festival.
Raffle tickets can be bought from Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre, in Ham Lane, and Sidmouth Cricket Club, in Fortfield Terrace.
Event organsiers say the raffle, and volunteers collecting donations from the thousands watching the free summer event, helps fund the family-fun entertainment.
A Sidmouth Town Council spokesman said: “The council is delighted to announce that tickets are now on sale for the Regatta Airshow grand draw, offering residents and visitors the chance to win an exciting range of prizes whilst helping to support one of the town’s most popular annual events.
“As a free event, the airshow relies heavily on donations, sponsorship, fundraising and community support to help meet the considerable costs involved in staging such a high-profile event.”
The town council said every ticket bought would fund the free entertainment, bringing future aerial acts to the town.
Volunteers collecting donations from the watching crowds were also key in the event’s fundraising efforts.
The town council spokesman added: “Organisers are also continuing to appeal to local residents and supporters of the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow to help with fundraising collections, which play a vital role in helping stage the event and securing its future.”
He said no previous experience was needed, and volunteers can offer as much or as little time as they are able to give.
The spokesman said: “With overheads and costs continuing to rise, bringing such events to Sidmouth remains challenging so your help is needed to help ensure the event can continue.”
He added: “Sidmouth regatta weekend attracts thousands of visitors to the town each year, delivering a day of spectacular aerial displays, family entertainment and a significant boost to the local economy – and is shaping up to be a highlight of the year.”
To help collect or count donations, contact Sidmouth Town Council on 01395 512424, or email towncouncil@sidmouth.gov.uk
