The 66th annual Chicago Air and Water Show takes flight today, bringing high-speed thrills and patriotic pageantry to the skies over Lake Michigan.
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and U.S. Army Golden Knights are leading a stacked lineup of military and civilian performers.
Crowds are already gathering for one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions. With more than 2 million expected to attend this year, it’s the largest free event of its kind in the United States.
Here’s a look at the show’s history, how the schedule works, who’s performing, and the best ways to watch from the lakefront.
A Storied Tradition
First staged in 1959, the Chicago Air and Water Show has grown from a modest lakeshore event into a premier summer attraction, drawing millions of spectators over the decades.
This year’s edition also marks the 250th anniversaries of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps, with special tributes scheduled throughout the weekend.
Schedule and Format
The show runs today and tomorrow — Saturday, August 16, and Sunday, August 17 — from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM each day.
The exact performance order is decided by the pilots on the day of the event.
But, the headliners — the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights — will close the show.
Herb Hunter — retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and former airline captain, and “the voice” of the show for over two decades — returns again to deliver his trademark mix of wit, storytelling, and aviation insight from the announcer’s stand.
Best Place to Watch the Chicago Air and Water Show
The prime viewing location is along the lakefront from Oak Street to Fullerton Avenue, with the show’s focal point at North Avenue Beach (1601 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive).
The lakefront will open to the public at 6:00 AM, both Saturday and Sunday.
Featured Performers
U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
Known for their precision flying and breathtaking aerial formations, the Thunderbirds are the pride of the U.S. Air Force.
Their six F-16 Fighting Falcons will perform synchronized maneuvers at speeds up to 700 mph, often flying just feet apart.
Expect a thrilling mix of solo and group stunts that showcase the skill and discipline of America’s elite pilots.
U.S. Army Golden Knights
The Golden Knights parachute team will deliver jaw-dropping free-fall demonstrations, gliding to the lakefront with pinpoint accuracy.
Their jumps often feature complex formations, smoke trails, and even mid-air passes of the American flag.
The team’s mix of athleticism and precision makes them one of the most anticipated acts each year.
Additional Performers Include:
— U.S. Air Force C-17 Demo
— Illinois Air National Guard KC-135
— Maryland Air National Guard A-10s
— U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue
— U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey
— Aerobatic pilots Bill Stein, Kevin Coleman, Ed Hamill, Tom Larkin, Bob Richards, and Susan Dacy
— Warbird Thunder Airshows
How to Get There and Parking
Public Transit: Skip the traffic and take the CTA Red Line to Chicago/State or Clark/Division stations — both within walking distance of North Avenue Beach. Riders on the Pink, Orange, or Green Lines can transfer to the Red Line at State/Lake.
Driving & Parking: There is no parking at North Avenue Beach, and parking at Lincoln Park Zoo is limited. Arrive early if driving.
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