All eyes will be on the skies this weekend in Chicago as the Air and Water Show returns.
This years’ 61st annual show will take place from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Aug. 17–18, remaining the oldest free air and water show in the United States.
Here’s what you need to know:
Where to Watch
Chicago Beaches: People are encouraged to bring chairs or a blanket to claim a spot in the sand or grass anywhere along North Avenue Beach or Oak Street Beach.
Navy Pier: Cruise ships at Chicago’s Navy Pier give a view of the show from the water itself, while enjoying a buffet and entertainment. Prices for cruises through Odyssey, Spirit Cruises and Mystic Blue start at $64.90. Or the Seadog speed boat offers rides starting at $27.95.
Sky high: The John Hancock building offers 360 Chicago and The Signature Room at the 95th for viewing of the performance. People can also visit the Skydeck at the Willis Tower for a view of the city front – both water and sky.
Where to Park
Millennium Park Garage provides parking spots and a free shuttle to and from North Ave. Beach to avoid crowds the day of the Air and Water Show.
Local
How to Get There
This weekend, the Metra train line will run added/modified service for the Air and Water Show. These will affect the following lines: Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation, Union Pacific North, Union Pacific Northwest and Union Pacific West.
The Chicago Transit Authority will also be in operation, running the red, blue, brown, green, orange, purple, pink and yellow lines.
Performers
Military Teams
USAF A-10 Thunderbolt II
U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo
U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter
U.S. Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter
C-130 Hercules
T-38 Talon
USMC Osprey Demo
KC-135 Stratotanker
U.S. Navy Blue Angels
U.S. Navy Parachute Team Leap Frogs
Royal Air Force Red Arrows
Civilian Teams
American Airlines
Bill Stein Aerosport
Chicago Fire Department Air/Sea Rescue
Chicago Police Department Helicopter
Sean D. Tucker & Team Oracle
Susan Dacy in the Super Stearman Model 70
The Firebirds Delta Team
Matt Chapman Air Shows
Warbird Heritage Museum Foundation P-51 Mustang
What can you NOT bring
Alcoholic Beverages
BBQ Grills (Open Flames)
Drones (Personal and Commercial)
Fireworks or Explosives
Illegal Substances & Weapons
Pop-up Tents/Canopies
Balloons
Kites
Flag Poles
All Pets (except service animals)
Accessibility
For those with disabilities, seating will be available primarily at the north end of North Avenue Beach. The following list can obtain accessible seating:
Individuals who use wheelchairs
Individuals with disabilities who are ambulatory, but use mobility devises such as walkers or crutches
Individuals who are ambulatory, but who are unable to stand during the performance
Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and need unobstructed sightlines to the sign language interpreter
Individuals who are blind or have visual impairments that require seating in close proximity to the stage
