While the Canadian Forces Snowbirds aviation demonstration team may not be able to break the sound barrier, a recent social media post did break the news of its plans to return to Barrie next summer.
The iconic team, also known as the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, will return to the city for a two-day event, June 7 and 8, according to the Dec. 10 post on the Snowbirds’ Facebook page.
Last year’s event, which took place June 14 and 15, was part of a series of celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the city is excited to have the Snowbirds back, Mayor Alex Nuttall told BarrieToday.
“The buzz in the air about the Barrie Airshow has been building long before the planes even arrive,” shared Nuttall. “We’re truly honoured to have Barrie included in the Snowbirds’ tour again this year — a highlight that has only added to the excitement as we gear up for another unforgettable show over the stunning shores of Kempenfelt Bay.
"With the support of our partners, we can’t wait to share more details as we count down to June," he added.
The 2024 show, according to a city staff impact report, brought in a total of $109,540 in cash sponsorship from local community members, while between both cash and in-kind contributions, city staff say they exceeded the fundraising target of $70,000.
Last year’s event included a $110,000 allocation from the municipal accommodation tax, plus vendor fees, for a total revenue commitment of $225,900.
In total, the event ended up costing the city $22,739, but that was mostly due to fuel and accommodation-related expenses being higher than anticipated.
The popular event always draws a huge crowd over the two days — a total of 139,759 unique visitors attended the 2024 show — and next year is expected to be no exception.
The direct economic impact of that influx of visitors to the area is just as big, with last year’s show bringing in more than $6.8 million to the area.
