U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
Officially the 2026 Chicago Air and Water Show is 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Aug. 15 through Sunday Aug. 16.
But folks in the know from previous experience head over to the lakefront at North Avenue Beach to watch the show’s “rehearsal” on Friday when the waterfront is not quite as crowded. The weekend event can also be viewed during the day along the beach from Fullerton Ave. to Oak Street. (See more info at DCASE Homepagee at Chicago Air and Water.
What to expect
This year the US Air Force Thunderbirds will fly over the area during the show. Another prime feature is the United States Army Parachute Team called the Golden Knights.
Then there are the military groups:
The U.S Air Force C-17 Demo – 15th Airlift Squadron, the Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker and a demonstration by the Coast Guard search and rescue by a MH-65D Dolphin helicopter aircrew.
Plus four F16 teams: the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, the USMC F-35B Lightning II Demonstration Team, the 162nd Wing unit of the Arizona Air National Guard from the Morris Air National Guard Base, Arizona, the 152nd Fighter Squadron (152 FS) that is a unit of the Arizona Air National Guard 162nd Fighter Wing located at Tucson Air National Guard Base, Arizona.
But the show is not just by military performers.
“Big Red” flown by Susan Dacy
You have Kevin Coleman’s acrobatic stunts, Susan Dacy flying the Super Stearman “Big Red,” retired USAF Col Ed Hamill flying the Folds of Honor Biplane and the Trojan Phlyers Flight Demonstration Team.
In addition, there is a Chicago Police Dept. helicopter team and a Chicago Fire Dept sea rescue team.
Just bring enough suntan lotion and liquids to last half a day and enjoy the action.
Jodie Jacobs