Chicago Air and Water Show: The roar of engines, the flash of precision flying, and the breathtaking stunts over the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan—it can only mean one thing: the Chicago Air and Water Show is back.
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Your Guide to the Chicago Air and Water Show 2025
As the city prepares for its 66th annual aerial and aquatic spectacle, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this beloved summer tradition.
Showcasing the Best of Land, Air, and Water
This year’s show, presented by the City of Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), promises to be a thrilling experience for all. A key highlight of the event is the recognition of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, making for an especially patriotic and poignant series of performances.
Headlining the event are the crowd-favorite U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, renowned for their synchronized, high-speed maneuvers in their F-16 Fighting Falcons. They will be joined by the elite U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, who will perform their daring free-fall and canopy formations.
The lineup also includes a diverse array of military and civilian performers:
- Military: Keep an eye out for the U.S. Air Force’s 15th Airlift Squadron with their C-17 Demo, the Illinois Air National Guard’s 126th Air Refueling Wing, the Maryland Air National Guard’s 104th Fighter Squadron, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s Search and Rescue demonstration. A special appearance by the Marine Corps’ Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, featuring the Osprey, is also on the schedule.
- Civilian: The show wouldn’t be complete without the individual brilliance of civilian pilots. The 2025 roster includes Bill Stein Airshows, Kevin Coleman of Coleman Aerosports, Ed Hamill’s Folds of Honor Biplane, Tom Larkin’s Mini Jet Airshows, Bob Richards flying the “Machaira” Muscle Biplane, Susan Dacy in her Super Stearman “Big Red,” and the nostalgic Warbird Thunder Airshows, featuring a World War II-era SNJ-2 and SNJ-3.
Essential Details for Your Day at the Lakefront
The Chicago Air and Water Show is not just an event; it’s an experience. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable day, here are the crucial details:
- Dates and Times: The main show takes place on Saturday, August 16, and Sunday, August 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day. For those who can’t wait, a full rehearsal is scheduled for Friday, August 15, offering a sneak peek of the weekend’s festivities.
- Location and Viewing: The show is visible along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach serving as the central hub. This is where you’ll hear the show’s long-standing voice, Herb Hunter, announce every twist and turn.
- Admission: This is the largest free-admission air and water exhibition of its kind, making it accessible to everyone. There are no public seating areas, so bring a blanket and find a comfortable spot on the beach or in the park.
Beyond the Beach: Unique Viewing Options
While North Avenue Beach is the epicenter, many visitors choose alternative viewing locations to avoid the largest crowds. Consider these options:
- Further North or South: Beaches like Montrose or those further south offer a less crowded experience, though you’ll be a bit farther from the show’s center.
- On the Water: For a truly unique perspective, consider booking a spot on one of the many boat cruises, like the Tall Ship Windy, which position themselves directly on Lake Michigan for prime viewing.
- From Above: For a bird’s-eye view, the Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower offers a stunning panorama of the show.
Planning Your Trip
Getting to the lakefront during the Air and Water Show weekend requires some planning. Public transportation is highly recommended, as parking is extremely limited and many roads are congested. The CTA and Metra are great options to get you close to the action. Be sure to check their websites for any rerouting or schedule changes due to the event.
With a legacy stretching back to 1959, the Chicago Air and Water Show remains a powerful display of skill, precision, and patriotism. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned veteran, the 2025 show promises to be an unforgettable weekend of high-flying excitement
LIVE: Chicago Air and Water Show 2025
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