City of Chicago Announces Full Schedule for 2025 Chicago Air & Water Show, Aug. 16-17
Military, Civic and Civilian Performers Showcase Skills in Air and On Land at North Avenue Beach
Photo Cred: Chiataglance from 2024 Air & Water Show
The City of Chicago and Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will present the 2025 Chicago Air & Water Show on Aug. 16 and 17 along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street, with North Avenue
Beach serving as the show center from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. “This show captures the heart of summertime in Chicago — free, accessible, and thrilling for people of all ages,” said DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth.
“We’re excited to welcome back world-class performers like the Golden Knights who have an unforgettable weekend of entertainment planned for those taking in the show along our iconic skyline.”
Warbird Thunder Airshows will fly the SNJ-2 and SNJ-3, a World War II-era aircraft once used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to train combat pilots for missions in World War II and the Korean War. Known for its deep, throaty roar, “Ol Growler” leads a fast paced formation routine featuring loops, rolls, Cuban Eights and thrilling moves. Nearly every pilot who served in World War II and Korea trained in a variant of this historic aircraft.
This year’s show will also recognize the 250th anniversary of the United States Army and United States Marine Corps, honoring their historic contributions to the nation as well as with the Chicago Air & Water Show. While the U.S. Navy will not participate in this year’s lineup, the city acknowledges its longstanding role in theevent’s history as one of its founding participants. First held in 1959, the 67th Chicago Air & Water Show remains the largest free admission event of its kind. This year’s headliners include the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
“The Chicago Air & Water Show is one of our city’s most beloved summer traditions, bringing together residents and visitors from around the world to enjoy an exciting, family-friendly experience on our beautiful lakefront,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.“We are proud to celebrate the incredible skill and dedication of our servicemen and women, while showcasing the very best of Chicago.”
Taking place along Chicago’s iconic lakefront, the Chicago Air & Water Show brings together military and civilian performers, presenting world-class aerial demonstration teams and pilots.
For more information and to view the full list of performers, visit chicagoairandwatershow.us, join the conversation on Facebook (Chicago Air & Water Show), follow on X and Instagram @ChicagoDCASE and use #ChicagoAirandWater.
Public parking is not available at North Avenue Beach and attendees are encouraged to use public transportation. Pick-up and drop-off will be available at the northbound entrance of the DuSable Lake Shore Drive, depending on crowd size.
The CTA 72 bus will be rerouted, and trip planning is available at transitchicago.com/planatrip. Guests may sit or stand on the sand or grass areas, with a beach mat providing accessible viewing near Castaways.
The Chicago Air and Water Show is presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Audio description will be available online for those who are blind/low vision both days of the event.
Throwback to the 2024 Chicago Air & Water Show
