More than a million spectators will gather along the lakefront on Saturday and Sunday to witness performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team, and other aircraft exhibitions. Here’s what attendees need to know for this year’s Chicago Air and Water Show, including access details, weather conditions, and the full lineup of performers.
Event Details
Admission: Entry to the event is free of charge.
Location: The show centers at North Avenue Beach, with good views from Ohio Street Beach and the lakefront stretching from Fullerton Avenue south to Oak Street Beach. Nearby parks and playing fields offer less crowded options.
Timing: The show runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Rehearsals are planned for Friday, but this could change due to weather. Beaches open at 6 a.m., though there is no public seating, and parking at North Avenue Beach is not available.
Performers
U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds: The demonstration team, active for 73 years, has been part of the show since 1960. Their routine, involving six F-16 Fighting Falcons, includes formation flying and solo maneuvers.
U.S. Army Golden Knights: Known for landing in Lake Michigan since the 1960s, this parachute team has performed alongside celebrities. Staff Sgt. Nickolas Orozco leads their jumps.
Additional demonstrations feature other branches, including:
- U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard demonstrations with aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster and F-22 Raptor
- U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II display
- U.S. Coast Guard Air and Sea Rescue
- Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker
- Civilian performers like Kevin Coleman, Susan Dacy, Ed Hamill, and Trojan Phlyers
Accessibility and Transportation
Pedestrian Access: Use bridges, tunnels, or underpasses at various access points like Fullerton Avenue and North Avenue Beach.
Public Transportation: Extra services will be available. Use the Regional Transportation Authority’s Trip Planner and the Ventra app for tickets. Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is offering additional services, and Metra will extend capacities.
Biking: Bikes are allowed, with rental options at Divvy’s station near North Avenue Beach.
Parking: No on-site parking. Millennium Garages offer online packages with a shuttle service to the beach. Use Spothero for nearby parking choices.
Entry Guidelines
What you can bring:
- Binoculars
- Bottled water
- Chairs and blankets
- Earplugs and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
What to leave at home:
- Alcohol
- Balloons and kites
- Drones and fireworks
- Grills and illegal substances
- Pets (except service animals) and tents
Weather and Safety
Forecast: Expect hot and humid conditions with highs in the upper 70s and possible showers.
Rain Plan: Performances may be delayed or abbreviated due to poor weather. Temporary shelters are available at nearby underpasses and pedway locations.
Additional Information
Watch Aircraft: Pay per vehicle at Gary/Chicago International Airport to see take-offs and landings.
Audio Coverage: On-air coverage is via WBBM-AM 780 and 105.9 FM. Audio descriptions are available through Zoom for those who are visually impaired.
Safety: Pole markers facilitate locating services. Call 911 and report the marker number for assistance in emergency situations.
Source: Tribune reporting; Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
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