Prepare to look up as the Chicago Air and Water Show 2025 is soaring back into the skies over Lake Michigan on August 16 and 17, offering a thrilling weekend of aerial stunts, parachute jumps, and stunning maritime maneuvers—all completely free.
This beloved Chicago summer tradition, dating back to 1959, is the largest and oldest free air and water exhibition in the U.S., drawing more than one million spectators along the city’s shimmering lakefront. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting from Naperville, Aurora, or Joliet, here’s everything you need to make the most of the weekend.
When and Where: Key Dates and Prime Viewing Spots
Show Schedule:
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Saturday, Aug. 16 & Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025
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Time: 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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Free Rehearsal: Friday, Aug. 15, with practice flyovers
Best Places to Watch the Chicago Air and Water Show:
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North Avenue Beach – The heart of the action and the most popular spot to view stunts up close. Arrive early to stake out a place on the sand.
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Ohio Street Beach / Caffe Oliva – Perfect for a breezy, upscale viewing experience with beachside cocktails and reserved seating.
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Theater on the Lake & Castaways – Enjoy great food, live music, and open-air views of the lakefront.
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Rooftop Bars – The J. Parker (Hotel Lincoln), Cindy’s (Chicago Athletic Association), and Offshore Rooftop at Navy Pier offer elevated views with city skyline backdrops.
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Boat Cruises – For an unforgettable experience, hop aboard City Cruises, Wendella Boats, Shoreline Sightseeing, Chicago’s First Lady, or Tall Ship Windy for a floating front-row seat.
What to Expect in 2025: Lineup and Highlights
From supersonic jets to classic warbirds and daring skydivers, the 2025 Chicago Air and Water Show boasts a mix of military and civilian performers guaranteed to drop jaws.
✈️ Military Performers
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U.S. Navy Blue Angels – Precision aerobatics in F/A-18 Hornets
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U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds – Legendary formation flying
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U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Osprey Demo
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U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer, C-17, KC-135, KC-46 Pegasus
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U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team
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Maryland Air National Guard A-10 “Warthog” flyovers
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U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo
🎪 Civilian Stunt Performers
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Bill Stein Airshows
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Coleman Aerosports – Kevin Coleman
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Folds of Honor Biplane – Ed Hamill
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Mini Jet Airshows – Tom Larkin
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RJ Gritter Decathlon Aerobatics
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Super Stearman “Big Red” – Susan Dacy
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Warbird Thunder Airshows
These performers bring heart-pounding energy with loops, rolls, low passes, and breathtaking spins, all set against Chicago’s iconic skyline.
Insider Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Air Show Weekend
🚇 Getting There:
Public transit is the best way to reach the lakefront. The CTA Red Line, #151 and #156 buses, and Divvy bikes are ideal options. Note: there’s no public parking at North Avenue Beach during the show. Paid garages near Millennium Park or downtown offer the closest alternatives.
🪑 Seating:
There are no formal public seating areas, so bring your own chairs or picnic blankets. For a more comfortable experience, reserve cabana seating at local waterfront venues.
🚻 Bathrooms:
Restroom facilities are located at North Avenue Beach House and throughout the lakefront via portable stations.
♿ Accessibility:
Audio descriptions are available for guests who are blind or low vision. Learn more about accessibility offerings on the City of Chicago’s event site.
A 60+ Year Tradition Still Going Strong
The first Chicago Air and Water Show in 1959 featured water ballets, ski performances, and Coast Guard demos. Over time, it has evolved into a full-scale celebration of aviation and naval power.
From the roar of jet engines to the precision of synchronized parachute landings, the Chicago Air and Water Show continues to inspire awe in all who attend. Its longevity is thanks in part to the diversity of performers, the city’s commitment to hosting a free, accessible event, and its backdrop—Lake Michigan’s sparkling blue waters and Chicago’s iconic skyline.
Don’t Miss This Sky-High Chicago Summer Tradition
Whether you’re into aviation, photography, military history, or just want a thrilling day on the lake, the Chicago Air and Water Show 2025 delivers. It’s an unbeatable, bucket-list-worthy weekend that showcases the best of Chicago’s summer culture—for free.
Mark your calendars for August 16–17, 2025, get there early, and prepare to be amazed. And if you’re coming from nearby cities like Rockford, Naperville, or Joliet, this is your perfect excuse for a weekend in the Windy City.
