There's more to Fleet Week than just looking up at the sky: Here's a look at SF's Fleet Fest
Fleet Fest is typically held at Marina Green, but organizers moved it this year to Fisherman's Wharf to centralize activities
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Fleet Week is often associated with air shows and the roar of military aircraft overhead, but organizers say there is much more to the annual event than what happens in the sky.
Fleet Fest took over San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf over the weekend, giving visitors a chance to explore military equipment, meet service members and first responders, and participate in hands-on activities.
"The show is all day long. It might not be in the sky, it's definitely throughout San Francisco," said Captain Jonathan Baxter with the San Francisco Fire Department.
Visitors said the event offered unique opportunities to interact with members of the military and learn more about their work.
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They could tour displays, examine vintage military vehicles and test their strength in a tug-of-war competition with service members. We asked about their favorite part.
"Talking to other sailors. Also my daughter doing the Marine Corps pull up challenge," said Matthew Blackcloud.
"I liked the helicopter because I liked looking at them up close. We see them in the sky, but we got to see them up close and personal," said Gem Labonte.
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The event also provided an opportunity for attendees to meet the people behind the uniforms.
"If you're here in San Francisco, we're not just your public servants. We're your neighbors. We're your community," Baxter said.
Fleet Fest is typically held at Marina Green, but organizers moved it this year to Fisherman's Wharf to centralize activities.
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The Service and Safety Expo was held at Pier 27, while free ship tours were offered nearby."
The energy is exhilarating, it's inspiring. And we're not done yet. We got one more day," Baxter said.
Organizers said Fleet Fest, the Service and Safety Expo and free ship tours will remain open through Sunday, offering visitors another way to experience Fleet Week beyond the air show.
