SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Did you hear it? That roar of jet engines over San Francisco.
The Fleet Week Air Show continued over the city’s waterfront Saturday. This year, no U.S. Military planes could take part due to the government shutdown, but spectators still enjoyed the show.
“This is the biggest party in San Francisco the whole year,” said Glenda McGovern from Healdsburg.
The party may be a bit smaller this year on San Francisco’s Marina Green but lots of spectators showed up to look up to the sky for the Fleet Week Air Show. It’s scaled down this year due to the government shutdown.
“We are here with the kids, have a good time. I don’t know what it’s going to be, no Blue Angels,” said Juan Mendoza from Richmond.
MORE: Canadian HMCS Nanaimo, Snowbirds arrive for SF Fleet Week: ‘Glad to be there for our partners’
“The Blue Angels are not going to be here, but do you know what? Canada’s Snowbirds are here,” said Maria Pereira from Orinda.
The Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds stepped up as the star attraction and impressed the crowds with some daredevil stunts.
“It’s really awesome. We didn’t expect to be like this, spectacular. It’s more than what we expected,” said Tina Chung from Pleasanton.
Still, some small businesses, like Cochinita, were hoping for more.
“Right now, business is slow. Usually, this time last year, we had a big line of people coming by for food, burritos, tacos. Seems slow this year,” said Charlie Islas from Cochinita Food Truck.
MORE: SF’s Fleet Week scaled down amid government shutdown, but not canceled: Here’s what’s different
If you want a Marine drill sergeant on your case, check out Fleet Fest at Fisherman’s Wharf. Business leaders are pivoting with the weekend street party, featuring local military recruiters and lots of classic cars.
“We’re hopeful. We’re trying to manage expectations. Last year, thousands of people showed up. We expect a lower turnout, but people are excited to come,” said Bri Maughan, executive director of the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District.
“I love it. I’m so happy people showed up, even though the government is shut down. It’s wonderful. I come every year. Even with the fog, I still come,” Pereira said.
If you missed the action Saturday, there’s still time to look up. The air show continues Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m.
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