Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free State
Bethlehem Air Show. (Image adapted). © Garth Calitz
Bethlehem Air Show. (Image adapted). © Garth Calitz
Bethlehem Air Show. (Image adapted). © Garth Calitz
Bethlehem Air Show. (Image adapted). © Garth Calitz
Bethlehem Air Show. (Image adapted). © Garth CalitzBethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free State
Bethlehem Air Show – A Free State Spectacle
Set against the wide-open skies and gentle farmlands of the Eastern Free State, the annual Bethlehem Air Show is one of South Africa’s most charming and accessible aviation events. Hosted at Bethlehem Airport, the show has been drawing crowds since 1999, growing steadily into a much-anticipated highlight on the national airshow calendar. It’s an event that blends exhilarating aerobatics with warm rural hospitality, creating a festive atmosphere that appeals to aviation enthusiasts, families and travellers exploring the region.
The show is organised with strong support from the local municipality, with a focus on fostering community pride, inspiring young people to consider aviation careers, and boosting tourism in the area. Crowds often exceed 10,000 spectators, gathering to watch a thrilling line-up of aerial displays, ground exhibitions, classic aircraft and parachute demonstrations. Past programmes have included everything from vintage biplanes and nimble home-built aircraft to iconic warbirds, gyroplanes and modern aerobatic teams. Professional commentary typically accompanies the displays, offering insights into the aircraft and their pilots.
Despite its festive character, the event faced a notable challenge in 2024 when a fire broke out in the spectator parking area, reportedly sparked by unattended hot coals from a braai (barbeque). An estimated 20 - 30 vehicles were damaged (many destroyed), and although only minor injuries were reported, the incident prompted a renewed commitment to stronger safety measures for future editions. Local tourism authorities reaffirmed the show’s importance to the region and moved quickly to implement improved protocols.
Traditionally held in August, the airshow occasionally shifts dates depending on the aviation calendar and local logistics. Visitors can expect an affordable, family-friendly outing with a relaxed Free State atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to explore nearby attractions, from cosy country estates to picturesque farmlands and charming small-town cafés.
For information, bookings or stall reservations:
Stephan – +27 72 344 9678 | fouriesj1491 "at" gmail.com
Khotso (Dihlabeng Municipality) – +27 73 909 5409 | khotso "at" dihlabeng.co.za
Stall enquiries – Malefu – +27 82 957 1722 or +27 58 303 5732 (ext. 3501) | led "at" dihlabeng.co.za
Accommodation Near Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free State
Paddocks Six
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
27.1km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StatePaddocks Six is a brand new self catering home (sleeps 6) in a new development. It is situated in the Swartland in Clarens and is a short 10 minute walk to the Clarens town square. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Aspen Guest House and Self Catering Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
27.7km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateAspen Guest House is located in the idyllic town of Clarens, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Free State". We offer both bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Clarens.services we offer and your hostess. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Riverwalk Bed & Breakfast
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Clarens
27.7km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateAll rooms open onto a veranda from a private entrance, with luxurious bathrooms. We proud ourselves with the quality of our furnishings and linen and offer a deluxe hospitality tray in each room, which include sherry, homemade rusks and biscuits... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Rochester
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
27.8km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateRochester is a newly built property situated in the stunning, Clarens Golf and Trout Estate, completed 2nd June 2016. The self-catering unit accommodates up to six guests with unobstructed views overlooking the golf course, fishing lake and Clarens. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ongeag Guesthouse
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
28km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateOngeag is a spacious, fully-equipped, self catering double story sandstone house, surrounded by the mountains of Clarens. Wide balconies integrate the warmth of the house with splendid views of the surrounding scenery. The house is designed to... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Golden Cove
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
28km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateGolden Cove is a lovely comfortable and cosy self catering house in the quaint Clarens village. (Sleeps up to 6 people). There are 2 bedrooms, 1 with a queen bed and 2nd bedroom has 2 single beds and sleeper couch. Main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Red Mountain House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Clarens
28.1km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateRed Mountain House is situated in the heart of the beautiful village of Clarens. Our accommodation consists of 6 luxury double rooms furnished with turn of the century antiques and one standard room. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Clarens Country House
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
28.1km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateThe Clarens Country House is nestled in a wooded corner of the secure Clarens Golf and Trout Estate, with wrap-around mountain views. The century-old stone house offers 4 luxury self-catering suites opening onto an enormous fully-glassed veranda... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
278 on Main
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
28.1km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateWelcome to 278 On Main. Luxury bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation right in the center of the picturesque village of Clarens in the Eastern Free State. Close enough to all Restaurants, Galleries and Shops to be able to park your car and... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Akzente
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
28.2km from Bethlehem Air Show - Bethlehem Airport, Free StateAkzente is situated in the heart of Clarens, within walking distance of all the galleries, shops and restaurants, but still has a panoramic view of the valley and the mountains of Golden Gate and Lesotho... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Bethlehem Airport - Free State (0.02km)
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- Pretoriuskloof Nature Reserve - Bethlehem, Free State (2.09km)
- Bethlehem Museum - Bethlehem, Free State (2.41km)
- Wolhuterskop Game & Nature Reserve - Bethlehem, Free State (2.87km)
- Bethlehem Golf & Country Club - Free State (3.50km)
