If you heard loud noises in the sky over Orange County's coast this afternoon, it wasn't thunder; it was the Pacific Airshow. This year, it runs from Friday, October 2, to Sunday, October 4, in Huntington Beach.

As I write this, Friday and Saturday have already passed. So realistically, only tomorrow, Sunday, is left.

Today, I will summarize how to get there from Irvine tomorrow with minimal hassle, step by step.

First, let's look at the basic information. According to the official site, the gates open daily at 9 AM, and the flights typically run from around 10:30 AM to about 4 PM.

However, the organizers have noted that these times are estimates and may change. The event will proceed even in bad weather, but some flights may be delayed or canceled due to safety concerns.

The detailed schedule is not released in advance. If you subscribe to the newsletter, you will receive the day's schedule via email on the morning of the event.

The lineup is honestly quite impressive. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Canadian Snowbirds are the headliners, along with the F-22 Raptor Demo Team, Navy F-35C, and F/A-18 West Coast Rhino Demo Team.

Unique acts like the British Air Force Falcons Parachute Team, Marine MV-22 Osprey, and Red Bull Jet Suit are also on the official list. Just seeing the Thunderbirds and Snowbirds on the same stage is reason enough to go.

The center of the show, known as the Show Center, is located at the intersection of PCH and Huntington Street, across from the Waterfront Beach Resort. The flights take place over the ocean, so you can see them from anywhere on the beach to some extent.

One common confusion is regarding free viewing. Watching from public beaches outside the paid areas is free, but you won't be able to hear the commentary, and getting a spot directly in front of the Show Center is unlikely.

Paid tickets include commentary, amenities, and a kids' zone. Children under 3 can enter all paid areas for free, so keep that in mind if you have little ones.

Now, let's move on to the most important topic: transportation. If you're driving from Irvine, you typically head north on the 405, exit onto Beach Boulevard, and continue south until you reach PCH.

The issue arises after you arrive. According to the official guidance, there is no dedicated parking for the airshow, and all city parking is first-come, first-served.

The Pier Plaza parking lot and Main Promenade parking structure operate on a timed basis, but the organizers warn that finding a spot near the Show Center on weekends is extremely difficult. If the official site is saying this, you should be prepared.

So, my recommendation is this: if you must drive, aim to arrive before the gates open at 9 AM.

Alternatively, you can leave your car behind. Taking an Uber or Lyft eliminates parking stress, but keep in mind that pickup may be delayed due to traffic on PCH at the end of the event.

If you know how to ride a bike, this could surprisingly be the best option. During the airshow, a free bike valet service is available at Surf City USA in downtown Huntington Beach.

If you're considering the bus, be sure to check the OCTA website for the day's routes and detours in advance. Traffic conditions along the coast may differ from usual on event weekends.

Let's quickly go over what to bring. Personal chairs and umbrellas under 2 meters are allowed in the general area, but not in premium areas or near the pier.

Drones are completely prohibited within a generous radius. Pets are also not allowed, except for service animals.

Glass bottles and outside alcohol are banned inside the event, and all bags will be checked at the entrance. Outside food is only permitted in the general area.

In addition to sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and water, be sure to bring earplugs. The sound of jets flying low is much louder than you might expect.

Especially for kids, the noise can be startling. If you have child-sized earmuffs, it's a good idea to bring them.

The long lines at the event's concession stands are mentioned in the official guidance, so it's best to bring plenty of snacks and water.

To summarize: there is only Sunday left, and arriving before 9 AM is key.

Parking is first-come, first-served, so manage your expectations, and consider biking or ridesharing instead of driving if possible. Free beach viewing is definitely worth it, but if you want commentary, the paid areas are better.

Personally, I would vote for the free beach viewing. Watching the Thunderbirds fly overhead while listening to the sound of the waves is a different experience than sitting in a paid seat.

If you're going tomorrow, leave early, find a good spot, and enjoy the beautiful fall sky in Orange County.