The iconic Goodyear Blimp is marking its 100th anniversary in grand style, embarking on a celebratory tour that will traverse more than 100 cities across North America and Europe throughout 2025. The festivities kicked off at the 111th annual Rose Bowl Game on New Year’s Day, commemorating both the blimp’s centennial and the 70th anniversary of its pioneering aerial coverage of sporting events.
A Year-Long Celebration
Goodyear’s 100th anniversary officially falls on June 3, but the celebrations will span the entire year. The tour will include appearances at major sports events, music festivals, and cultural gatherings, showcasing the enduring legacy of the blimp as a symbol of innovation and nostalgia. To commemorate the milestone, Goodyear will also release a special line of merchandise celebrating the blimp’s history.
Win a Chance to Fly on the Goodyear Blimp
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Goodyear is offering a rare opportunity for three lucky individuals to experience a flight on the blimp through the “Buy for a Chance to Fly” sweepstakes. Winners will receive a flight certificate for two passengers and a $3,000 travel voucher to visit one of Goodyear’s three U.S. airship bases.
To enter, participants need to purchase Goodyear tires between January 1 and April 10, 2025. This exclusive experience highlights the uniqueness of the Goodyear Blimp, with only a fraction of Americans ever having flown on the iconic airship.
A Storied History
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, founded in 1898 in Akron, Ohio, has been a leader in tire innovation for 125 years. Beyond its tire production, Goodyear is renowned for its racing tires and partnerships with motorsports organizations like NASCAR.
The Goodyear Blimp first took to the skies in 1925 and has since become an emblem of aerial advertising, sports coverage, and innovation. While blimps were initially seen as the future of transportation, their practicality waned with the rise of airplanes. Today, only around 25 operational blimps remain worldwide, making the Goodyear Blimp a rare and cherished sight.
Looking Ahead
The 100th anniversary tour promises to celebrate the rich legacy of the Goodyear Blimp while connecting with fans across the globe. Whether you spot it in the skies or win the chance to take flight, the blimp’s centennial celebrations are a reminder of its enduring place in history and culture.
For more details on the tour and sweepstakes, visit Goodyear’s official website.