Chicago's favorite summer spectacle returns to the lakefront as the 2026 Chicago Air and Water Show takes flight on Saturday and Sunday, August 15 and 16, with a full rehearsal taking place on Friday, August 14. Presented by the City of Chicago, the Chicago Air and Water Show is the largest free show of its kind in the United States, attracting millions of spectators each year for an unforgettable weekend of aviation and waterfront excitement.
The show runs daily from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and can be enjoyed anywhere along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach serving as the primary viewing location. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it one of Chicago's premier summer events for families, visitors, and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Spectators can expect an incredible lineup of military and civilian aircraft performing high-speed aerial demonstrations, precision formations, and gravity-defying maneuvers, along with exciting water-based performances that showcase the skill and talent of world-class performers. Whether you're watching from the beach, the lakefront trail, or aboard a boat on Lake Michigan, the Air and Water Show delivers an unmatched experience against the backdrop of Chicago's iconic skyline.
