Chicago Air & Water Show: Aug 15th and 16th

Chicago’s beloved summer tradition returns to the lakefront as Chicago celebrates America’s 250th anniversary

Photo Cred: Chiataglance from 2024 Air & Water Show

Saturday & Sunday (8/15 and 8/16)
Rehearsal on Friday, 8/14
Where: North Avenue Beach along the Lakefront
FREE Admission: 10:30am – 3pm

The The City of Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and American Airlines will present the Chicago Air and Water Show. This show is the largest FREE show of its kind in the United States. The show can be viewed along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach as the focal point.

This year’s event will feature the return of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Army Golden Knights, military demonstrations, civilian aerobatic performers and more as millions gather for one of Chicago’s most beloved summer traditions.

The Thunderbirds perform for people all around the world to display the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to excite and inspire. In addition to showcasing the elite skills all pilots must possess, the Thunderbirds demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

First held in 1959, the Chicago Air and Water Show remains the nation’s largest free-admission air and water exhibition. The event draws millions of spectators annually, generating significant tourism and economic activity for Chicago businesses. It will also serve as one of Chicago’s signature celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring the nation’s history through spectacular aerial demonstrations and military tributes while bringing together residents and global visitors.

Audio description will be available online for guests who are blind or have low vision during both days of the event.

Featured military performers:

• U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
• US Army Golden Knights Parachute Demonstration Team
• U.S. Air Force C-17 Demo – 15th Airlift Squadron
• Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 – 126th Air Refueling Wing
• U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo
• F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team

Featured civilian performers:

• Kevin Coleman – Red Bull
• Susan Dacy Super Stearman “Big Red”
• Ed Hamill Folds of Honor Biplane
• Trojan Phlyers Flight Demonstration Team
• Chicago Police Department Helicopters
• Chicago Fire Department Air / Sea Rescue