Arts & Entertainment

Thunderbirds To Headline Chicago Air & Water Show, Full Lineup Announced

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will roar over Chicago during the 66th annual Air & Water Show, Aug. 16-17.

The squadron — with its signature red, white and blue F-16 fighter jets — will headline the show both days, thrilling crowds with tight diamond formations and solo acrobatics.

Other featured military performers announced by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events:

• Golden Knights, U.S. Army parachute 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 and rescue demo

• U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 (Osprey) demo

The full lineup, including civilian performers, is available online. 

Billed as the largest free event of its kind, the Air & Water Show — particularly the “water” portion — is centered at North Avenue beach.

The show runs 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, plus a full rehearsal on Friday, which also typically draws large crowds of spectators to the lakefront.

Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]

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