Get ready for some high-flying action this summer as the City of Chicago and Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announce the full schedule for the 2025 Chicago Air & Water Show. Scheduled for Aug. 16 and 17 along the city's scenic lakefront, this free-admission spectacle is a staple of Chicago summer fun, running from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. With North Avenue Beach as the focal point, visitors can expect the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds to headline the event.
"This show captures the heart of summertime in Chicago — free, accessible, and thrilling for people of all ages," DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth was quoted in an announcement. As the city gears up to celebrate the historic contributions of the United States Army and Marine Corps on their 250th anniversary, vintage aircraft enthusiasts will also have a chance to witness Warbird Thunder Airshows commanding the sky with World War II-era SNJ-2 and SNJ-3 planes, detailing a bygone era's bravery.
While the U.S. Navy is notably absent from this year's lineup, countless other military and civilian performers are set to dazzle audiences. The show embraces a roster featuring the U.S. Air Force C-17 Demo, Illinois Air National Guard KC-135, and the always impressive U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo, as detailed on the event’s official website. Civilian prowess will not go unrepresented with talents like Coleman Aerosports and Bill Stein Airshows, ensuring a varied display of aerobatics.
With the event's significant draw, public transportation is recommended as parking options are limited. Changes to the CTA 72 bus routes and dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones are part of a comprehensive plan to manage the crowds. Even more, the Chicago Air & Water Show is making inclusivity a priority by offering audio description for attendees who are blind or have low vision. Mayor Brandon Johnson told the city, "The Chicago Air & Water Show is one of our city’s most beloved summer traditions." He added that it's not only a showcase for "the incredible skill and dedication of our servicemen and women" but also a celebration of Chicago’s communal spirit.
Sponsors like ABC 7 Chicago, American Airlines, and The Boeing Company are supporting this grand affair, along with local emergency services that will demonstrate their skills alongside the aviation marvels. With a mix of heart-stopping acrobatics and a tribute to military heritage, the 66th annual Air & Water Show promises to once again captivate both residents and visitors amid Chicago’s stunning backdrop.
