This weekend, one million or more spectators are expected along the lakefront to witness performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team, and various other aircraft. Here’s what you need to know about this year’s Chicago Air and Water Show.
Event Details
Admission: The event is free of charge.
Location: The center of the show is at North Avenue Beach. However, good views can also be found at Ohio Street Beach and along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue south to Oak Street Beach. Parks and playing fields in the area are generally less crowded.
Timing: The show runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. A rehearsal is set for Friday, weather permitting. The beaches will open at 6 a.m., but public seating is not available, and there is no parking at North Avenue Beach.
Performers Lineup
The lineup is subject to change. Below are the scheduled performers:
- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds with their well-known demonstration team using F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft.
- U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, a team that has previously performed jumps with celebrities like David Ross and Bill Murray.
- Demonstrations by other Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard units, including C-17 Globemaster and F-22 Raptor.
- U.S. Marine Corps showcasing the F-35B Lightning II.
- U.S. Coast Guard Air and Sea Rescue Display.
- Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker.
- Various civilians, including the Chicago Fire Department Air and Sea Rescue Unit and aerobatic pilots like Kevin Coleman.
Transportation Options
Pedestrians: Access the lakefront through bridges, tunnels, or underpasses at places like Fullerton Avenue and North Avenue Beach.
Public Transport: Extra services will be available. Use the Regional Transportation Authority’s Trip Planner to map your route. Consider purchasing tickets in advance.
CTA: Additional services will be provided. Use Red Line stations like Chicago/State or Clark/Division for access.
Metra: Expect enhanced service on four of the lines. Union Station and Millennium Park Station will connect you to CTA buses for easy access to the beaches.
Bikes: Cycling is allowed. Divvy has a rental station close by at DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
Parking: No parking is directly available, but Millennium Garages offer packages with shuttle service.
What to Bring
You can bring binoculars, bottled water, chairs, coolers, earplugs, blankets, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Leave behind alcoholic beverages, balloons, drones, fireworks, grills, illegal substances, and pets.
Weather Expectations
The forecast predicts hot, humid conditions in the upper 70s with possible showers.
In Case of Rain: Severe weather can delay performances. Temporary shelters are available at several underpasses and pedway locations.
Additional Viewing and Listening
Watch Aircraft: For a fee, spectators can watch takeoffs and landings at the Gary/Chicago International Airport.
Listening Options: Herb Hunter, a former military pilot, will announce the show. Coverage will be on WBBM-AM 780 and 105.9 FM, with audio descriptions available via Zoom.
Safety Information
If you encounter a safety issue, use the pole markers attached to light poles along the lakefront. Call 911 and provide the letter/number on the nearest marker.
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