Events
There is a myriad of events to enjoy at the museum whether it be weekly, monthly, semi-annually, annually, or as new opportunities arise. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, Estrella Warbirds Museum receives its funding through community and private donations, special events (which sometimes include event sponsorships), and membership fees. These events have proven to be a fun way to raise money in support of the museum. Not listed here are special group tours and or car club “destination” events. Be sure to check our public event calendar to see if events are happening at the museum.
Weekly Events
Eagle Flight Simulator
Here’s your chance to fly with us! Experience, while in the training cockpit of an F/A -18, all the thrills and gut-wrenching excitement of what it’s like to fly an F/A18 Super Hornet. Take off from a taxiway or an aircraft carrier. Fly peace time or defend your base against enemy fighters. Fun for all ages. Whether you’re exploring aviation for the first time or testing your skills as a fighter pilot, our F/A-18 simulator is guaranteed to be a blast. Don’t just tour history—fly it!
Quarterly Events
Dinner with Special Guest Speaker
First Wednesday of every three months at Thomson Hall. No host bar at 6:00 p.m. with dinner at 7:00 followed by a special guest speaker. Speaker choice is announced each month in on our news page and in the membership or monthly newsletters. For more information click here.
Monthly dinner is catered. Reservations are required.
Company Events
Occasionally we rent some of our facility for company events.
Annual Events
Salute to our Heroes
Originating in 2025 and held the Saturday before Veterans Day, this annual event shows promise of becoming our largest annual fundraiser focusing on the mission of our museum to honor those who served in the military. We also include first responders at our event to honor their civilian commitment to the safety of our communities. This is an action packed family friendly event complete with military and first responder displays, paratroop drops from our C-47 “Betsy,” a Show and Shine Car Show and museum building access to both Estrella Warbirds and Woodland Auto Display.
Sherm Smoot Legacy Flight
Sherman Smoot, a devoted member of the Estrella Warbirds Museum in Paso Robles and a pilot for the nonprofit Honor Flights, tragically passed away Sep 2, 2022. Just before his passing, Smoot, along with the Gooney Birds, orchestrated a memorable flight, taking 17 local veterans on a tour around San Luis Obispo County in the C-47B, Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber. This flight was a gesture of gratitude and respect for the veterans as they eagerly anticipated their official Honor Flight to the East Coast later in the year. In tribute to Sherm’s legacy, his family has decided to uphold his memory by organizing the Sherman Smoot Legacy Flight annually on June 6th, the anniversary of D-Day.