The 2026 Chicago Air and Water Show returns to the lakefront August 15 and 16, bringing the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Army Golden Knights, military demonstrations and civilian aerobatic performers to one of Chicago’s biggest summer events.
Presented by the City of Chicago, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and American Airlines, the free show runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street. North Avenue Beach will once again serve as show center.
First held in 1959, the Chicago Air and Water Show has grown into the largest free-admission air and water exhibition in the country, drawing millions of spectators to the lakefront each year.
“The Chicago Air and Water Show is one of Chicago’s defining summer traditions, bringing families, visitors and aviation enthusiasts together along our extraordinary lakefront,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, we are proud to celebrate the spirit of innovation, service and patriotism that has inspired generations, while showcasing the very best our city has to offer.”
This year’s show will also be part of Chicago’s observance of America’s 250th anniversary.
American Airlines marks two anniversaries
Presenting sponsor American Airlines will open each day with a ceremonial flyover marking both the airline’s 100th anniversary and America’s 250th anniversary.
Saturday’s flyover will feature American’s Centennial livery aircraft, created to commemorate the airline’s 100th anniversary. Sunday will feature its America250 livery honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.
“Chicago has been part of American’s story since the beginning,” said Caroline Clayton, American Airlines Chief Marketing Officer. “We operated our first flight out of the city back in 1926, and 100 years later, Chicago remains at the heart of our story.”
Military performers
The 2026 lineup includes:
- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
- U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Demonstration Team
- U.S. Air Force C-17 Demo, 15th Airlift Squadron
- Illinois Air National Guard KC-135, 126th Air Refueling Wing
- U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo
- F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team
- U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II Demonstration Team
Civilian and local performers
Civilian and local demonstrations include:
- Kevin Coleman, Red Bull
- Susan Dacy Super Stearman “Big Red”
- Ed Hamill Folds of Honor Biplane
- Trojan Phlyers Flight Demonstration Team
- Chicago Police Department helicopters
- Chicago Fire Department Air and Sea Rescue
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Public parking will not be available at North Avenue Beach, and attendees are encouraged to use public transportation. An accessible viewing area will be available near Castaways.
Audio description will also be available online during both days of the show for guests who are blind or have low vision.
The Chicago Air and Water Show is presented by DCASE with presenting sponsor American Airlines. Supporting sponsors and partners include ABC 7 Chicago, Capital One, Chicago Transit Authority, Millennium Garages, The Boeing Company, WBBM Newsradio and Wells Fargo.
The complete performer lineup and visitor information are available through the Chicago Air and Water Show website ChicagoAirandWaterShow.us.
