SAN DIEGO—The 19th annual Fleet Week Coronado Speed Festival kicks off with two days of vintage auto racing at the Naval Air Station North Island September 17 and 18.
The festival is one of San Diego’s most successful fundraisers for the military and offers a variety of pulse-quickening events.
Schedule of events:
Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band – Free with admission, Saturday at noon. There’s something for everyone as the group covers hits from every genre. Performing pop songs to classic rock staples, the band raises awareness and lifts spirits everywhere it goes.
Grand Marshal Gary Sinise – The award-winning “Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders” actor/humanitarian has been working in support of veterans for over thirty years. His portrayal of Lt. Dan Taylor in the landmark film Forrest Gump, formed an enduring connection with the military community.
Navy Open House – Each year, Naval Air Station North Island is the gracious host to this event. The general public only gets a glimpse of the daily activities happening at the base. This is San Diego’s opportunity to interact with the young men and women who defend our freedom. Base Tour on September 17 visits the historical, cultural and environmental activities of NASNI.
MRE Cooking Contest – Entry fee includes two MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat). Entrants can bring one “care package” item like hot sauce or mustard and must make a three-course gourmet meal: appetizer, main course and dessert. Meals will be judged and prizes awarded on September 17.
Military Displays – A multitude of current Navy helicopters, special boats and hovercraft, will be on display at the entrance of the event, with pilots eager to answer questions and show you the craft.
8th Annual Car Procession – 40 hand-selected vintage race cars will proceed through the streets of Coronado starting at 4:30 p.m. on September 15. The cars will travel down Orange Avenue then park at the Rotary Plaza at Isabella Avenue for closer inspection. The event is free.
Red Bull Sportbike Freestyle Rider – Aaron Colton, an X Games regular and Red Bull KTM action sport athlete with over eight years of professional riding experience will perform.
Ride & Drive – Would-be racers test-drive high-performance vehicles from one of the auto industry’s premier manufacturers: Jaguar. Open to drivers ages 18 and older.
Car Show Showdown – See Southern California’s finest examples of muscle cars, hotrods and sports cars battle it out for Best in Show at the 11th annual Car Show in the Car Club Corral.
Military Pit Crew Challenge – Stock Car Pits Beware! 16 Navy command teams will race against each other in a full pit stop relay to the finish in times that rival the pros.
Garage Tours – One of the Coronado Speed Festival’s most unique attractions is the Garage Tours. Unlike most racing events, visitors are encouraged to freely explore the garage area, inspect the cars and talk with owners and drivers of these fascinating vehicles.
All active duty, active reserve, and their direct-dependent military ID-holders will enjoy free admission to this year’s event. Admission is free for children 12 and under, both military and non-military. For the public, tickets cost $25 for one day and $35 for both days, in advance. Tickets will be available at the venue ($35 one day and $45 for both days).
For more information, visit www.fleetweeksandiego.org.
