They're baaaack — well, almost.

The US Navy's Blue Angels and all of their thunderous glory return to Seattle this week ahead of the 75th annual Seafair.

Seafair activities happen all summer (you may remember those big ole Fourth of July fireworks), but the main events — like the log boom, hydroplane races, and car show — are happening Friday, Aug. 2-Sunday, Aug. 4 on Lake Washington and at Genessee Park. Here's what you need to know.

The schedule

No, it's not the end of times — that's just the arrival of the Blue Angels. You can start expecting the sky screamers mid-week. The team typically practices on Thursday, with their official air shows beginning at 3:35 p.m. Friday-Sunday.

The rest follows Seafair's typical order of events:

Boeing air show | Friday-Sunday, 11:10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hydroplane races | Friday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Classic car show | Saturday + Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fleet Week ship tours | Thursday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Each hydroplane can hit about 220 mph during their races. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Where to go

In addition to Seafair's festival grounds (tickets run $15-$100) and log boom, there are plenty of places around the area where you can set yourself up for a good show:

Most parks along Lake Washington — we recommend Seward Park, Colman Park, and Madrona Beach.
Waterways Cruises and Events' Blue Angels BBQ Lunch cruise — tickets start at $159.

Road closures

Don't worry about 'em — the I-90 bridge no longer gets shut down during the aerial demonstrations thanks to a new flight path established in 2019. However, do expect heavy traffic around Columbia City and parks near the south end of Lake Washington

Leaving town

Want to escape the craze? Check out our travel guides to Bellingham, Olympic National Park, or Portland.