National Naval Aviation Museum Hosts Storytime and ‘Build A Bird’ Event Celebrating New Children’s Book

PENSACOLA, Fla. (July 24, 2026) – Families are invited to continue the excitement of a Blue Angels practice demonstration with an afternoon of imagination, creativity and hands-on fun during the National Naval Aviation Museum’s Build-A-Bird event on Tuesday, July 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Museum’s Blue Angels Atrium.

The family-friendly event celebrates the Museum’s newest children’s book, Thach and the Blues, written by National Naval Aviation Museum Education Director Dianna Hayden. The heartwarming story follows Thach, a curious young duckling, as he experiences the thrill of seeing the U.S. Navy Blue Angels for the very first time alongside his grandparents.

Following the Blue Angels practice flight, children and their families are invited inside the Museum for a special live reading by Hayden, interactive crafts inspired by the book, and the opportunity to build and take home their very own “Thach” plush duck for an additional fee. Copies of Thach and the Blues will also be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting educational programs through the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation.

“Build-A-Bird is a wonderful way for families to extend their Blue Angels experience while encouraging a love of reading and learning,” said Hayden. “We hope children leave with a special keepsake, a new favorite story, and memories they’ll treasure for years to come.”

The event is open to visitors of all ages. While registration is not required, advance registration is encouraged to help organizers plan for attendance.

Event Details

What: Build-A-Bird Storytime featuring Thach and the Blues
When: Tuesday, July 28, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: Blue Angels Atrium, National Naval Aviation Museum, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola, FL

To learn more or register for the event, visit: Build-A-Bird Registration

About the National Naval Aviation Museum

Located aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, the National Naval Aviation Museum is the world’s largest museum dedicated to naval aviation and one of the most visited museums in Florida. Spanning nearly 350,000 square feet, the museum showcases more than 150 meticulously restored aircraft representing the aviation arms of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Key attractions include the moving Return with Honor exhibit commemorating the courage and resilience of Vietnam War POWs, and don’t miss Fly with the Blues—the only simulator in the world, where guests experience the thrill of flying in precision formation with the Blue Angels. Other attractions include Hangar Bay One, featuring post-WWII aircraft such as the presidential helicopter Marine One, state-of-the-art HD flight simulators, and a cutting-edge laser-powered Giant Screen digital theater. Guests can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, snacks, and beverages at the TOPGUN Café, conveniently located at the museum entrance, and are encouraged to stop by the Flight Deck Store before departure to find souvenirs that reflect the legacy and spirit of Naval Aviation. Admission to the museum is always FREE.