Warn your pets: One of Chicago’s most beloved (and most booming) summer traditions, The Chicago Air and Water Show, returns August 16 and 17.
The 66th edition will feature all the high-flying, heart-pounding military and civilian stunts you’d expect, and, best of all, it’s completely free.
From 10:30am to 3pm both days, be dazzled as the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds headline the action, slicing across the sky in their F-16 Fighting Falcons. They’re joined by the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, the U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo and a fleet of crowd-pleasing performers from across the armed forces, including A-10s, C-17s, Ospreys, and KC-135s.
Civilian acts round out the show with aerobatic daredevils like Bill Stein Airshow, Kevin Coleman and the Warbird Thunder crew, plus stunt biplanes, mini jets and vintage aircraft performing choreographed chaos over the lakefront. And the Chicago fire and police departments get in on the action, too, with sea rescue demonstrations and helicopter flights, respectively.
The official event is Saturday and Sunday, but don't sleep on the Friday, August 15, rehearsal. For prime viewing, North Avenue Beach is the main stage, but anywhere along the lakefront delivers solid views, with the city skyline adding a cinematic backdrop.
There are plenty of options to make it a full day out. Why not snag a reservation at Offshore, the world's largest rooftop (as certified by Guinness World Records), for panoramic views? Or skip the crowds at North Avenue Beach for the less populated Northerly Island or Montrose Beach.
RECOMMENDED: Where to watch the Chicago Air and Water Show
Bring blankets, snacks and sunscreen, and be ready to stake out your spot early. The city installs white and green pole markers in Grant Park for easy reference points and emergency info, so take note of your nearest one. Whether you’re a local with nostalgia for the roar of jet engines or a first-timer looking to soak up one of summer’s most quintessentially Chicago experiences, the Air and Water Show delivers patriotic flair, family-friendly thrills and more than a few moments that’ll leave you looking up in awe.