Chicago’s skies are about to see a lot of action this weekend—the Air and Water Show returns! The annual spectacle will take place August 16 and 17, with a rehearsal day on August 15. Whether you’re a jet-loving local or a first-timer looking to soak up one of the city’s most iconic 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.
Folks will be able to see dazzling aerial demonstrations from an array of acts, including the return of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights. The show will run from 10:30am to 3pm on both days and, as always, admission is free. North Avenue Beach is the central location for the festivities, but you’ll be able to view the action from various spots along the shore. 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.
As always, the show will be moderated by Chicago legend and retired Air Force pilot Herb Hunter, known as the “voice” of the Chicago Air and Water Show—Herb has been the show’s announcer since 1988.
RECOMMENDED: Where to watch the Chicago Air and Water Show
Who are the military performers in the Chicago Air and Water Show 2025?
– U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
– U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights
– U.S Air Force C-17 Demo
– Illinois Air National Guard KC-135
– Maryland Air National Guard A-10’s
– U.S Coast Guard Search & Rescue
– U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 (Osprey)
Who are the civilian performers in the Chicago Air and Water Show 2025?
– Bill Stein Airshows
– Coleman Aerosports — Kevin Coleman
– Folds of Honor Biplane — Ed Hamill
– Mini Jet Airshows — Tom Larkin
– Muscle Biplane Machaira — Bob Richards
– Super Stearman “Big Red” — Susan Dacy
– Warbird Thunder Airshows
How to get there:
Pick up and drop off for the Air and Water Show is at the North Avenue northbound entrance to Jean Baptiste Point DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Keep in mind that there is no public parking at the beach over Air and Water weekend.
Attendees can travel to North Avenue via the CTA 72 bus, or plan the trip using Transit Chicago.
Where to watch:
While the performers take off from the Gary/Chicago International Airport in Gary, Indiana, the best sight lines can be found along the Lake Michigan lakefront from Fullerton avenue to Oak Street. Attendees are welcome to sit or stand on the sand or grass areas in the park, but there are no designated public seating areas. To help you plan the perfect Air and Water Show weekend, we’ve rounded up the best places to watch the Air and Water Show, from restaurants and bars to beaches and rooftops.
Other details of note:
WBBM Newsradio 780 / 105.9 will broadcast the show live on both the radio and the Audacy app for free.
Audio description is also available for blind and low vision attendees. Visit the Chicago Air and Water Show website to learn more.