SPONSORS, traders and exhibitors are being sought after by BCP Council to take part in this year’s Bournemouth Air Festival. 

The annual festival, which will take to the skies for one less day this year starting on Thursday, August 29, features several stalls and businesses lining the seafront and clifftop. 

Fairground rides, pier-to-pier trading, fireworks, vintage displays, demonstrations from the Army and Navy, exciting night air displays are all to be expected at this year’s festival. 

BCP Council is now inviting sponsors, traders and exhibitors to come forward to register interest in being part of this year’s festival, which has the largest single audience of any aviation event in Europe. 

As only a limited number of spaces are available, we advise registering interest early to avoid disappointment. 

Amanda Barrie, director of commercial operations at BCP Council, said: “With its iconic planes, aerobatics, plentiful entertainment and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, Bournemouth Air Festival is a fantastic finale to the summer, drawing in crowds far and wide. 

“This year we’re planning to make the festival even more memorable; listen out for further announcements regarding the event programme in the coming months.” 

Bournemouth Echo:

Councillor Millie Earl, portfolio holder for tourism at BCP Council, added: “Bournemouth Air Festival marks a huge opportunity for sponsors, traders and exhibitors to get in front of consumers, grow and bring fresh eyes to their brand.  

“The festival has the potential to bring a wealth of opportunities, whether your business is local, national or international. 

"Whether you choose to sponsor display acts or the STEM Village, take a prime trading location on the cliff or beach, or have your brand featured in the widely sold official festival programme, the event is a chance to make meaningful connections and develop new relationships.” 

The council is now inviting potential operators to manage and deliver Bournemouth Air Festival in its entirety from 2025 onwards. 

Cllr Earl added: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity to run, grow and shape an impactful event that has made a significant contribution to the local tourism economy over its remarkable 16-year history. 

“If you think your business could help to grow and develop the festival, and the festival could help you to grow and develop your business, we’d love to hear from you.” 

As reported, the council said it would contribute £200k to this year’s air festival to break even. It would only go ahead if £100k is raised through sponsors, donors and any outside money. 

It is not clear if that money has been raised yet. The Echo has asked BCP Council.