The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has just announced that it will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of its world-famous Goodyear Blimp.
In 2025, the aircraft will bring tons of surprises, appearing at special events and on a line of limited-edition collectors' items.
An icon of American culture, the Goodyear Blimp has spent a century in the country's collective consciousness.
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Beginning with the "Pilgrim" in 1925, it served as a driving force for Goodyear's brand awareness at major events such as the Olympics and the first Super Bowl, even featuring in countless films, TV shows, and songs.
In a press release, Goodyear CEO and President Mark Stewart highlighted the blimp's status as a symbol of innovation and nostalgia worldwide:
"With its century-long history and unique ability to instill a sense of wonder in those who experience it — whether from on the ground or in the air, the blimp gives Goodyear a way to connect with the public in a way no other tire company can match."
On its centennial year, the aircraft will embark on a tour, flying over upwards of 100 cities across North America and Europe.
It will also make appearances at some of this year's most significant cultural events, including the biggest sports matchups and music festivals.
The celebrations kicked off on New Year's Day at the Rose Bowl Stadium for the announcement of the 111th annual Rose Bowl Game.
This also marked the 70th anniversary of aerial coverage, a concept pioneered by the Goodyear Blimp in 1955.
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Fans can keep up to date on the blimp's activities at GoodyearBlimp.com.
The Goodyear Blimp is one of the most iconic and enduring examples of brand marketing in the history of advertising.
Utilizing experiential marketing techniques, the blimp exudes a larger-than-life presence that has captured the attention of fans for a century.
A Rare Opportunity
For the first time ever, Goodyear will be giving three lucky U.S. fans the chance to win a flight on the Goodyear Blimp, which only 0.0006% of Americans have flown on.
Running from January 1 to April 10, the "Buy for a Chance to Fly" sweepstakes encourages fans to purchase tires through the Goodyear website, Goodyear's Auto Service, or the Just Tires network.
No purchase is necessary to enter the actual sweepstakes.
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Each winner will receive a blimp flight certificate for two passengers, redeemable at any of the brand's three U.S. airship bases:
- Carson, California
- Pompano Beach, Florida
- Akron, Ohio
Additionally, winners will also get a $3,000 gift voucher for accommodations and travel.
A brand lasting for a century is definitely something worth celebrating. Last May, Montblanc celebrated the 100th year anniversary of its legendary Meisterstück pen with a short film directed by Wes Anderson.
