We adore going to airshows. Grandpa was a Navy pilot and Uncle was in the Air Force, so perhaps it is in our DNA. But we try to go to an airshow once a summer. Whether you are watching the Thunderbirds or the Blue Angels, the adrenaline rush from the high-powered jets flying so close together in locked formation is addictive. The music that powers through, the pilots’ skill and precision, the sound of the fury of the jets, is unlike anything else.
These airshows, of course, aren’t just about the main, culminating act. Beforehand there are shows of daring pilots in small planes, the newest and the greatest fighters doing buzz-bys, usually a jet-powered vehicle of some sort, and we have also seen battle simulations.
That’s all in the sky while on the ground there are static displays to walk through. There is always a kids’ zone (for an extra charge) and vendors available.
We have learned some things from our experiences, of course. We’ve done some things wrong and we’ve conquered other elements of these outdoor, all-day long events, but we just can’t stop going.
Here are our tips for seeing an airshow:
Find the best airshow to attend for you.
Air & Space has a fabulous listing for the 2018 season, but spend some time finding the one that is right for your family. We have done trips close enough to us that we could see them within the day to be home for bedtime, and we have also used airshows as an opportunity to try out a new campsite. By the way, staying near the airshow is always fun as your family can usually see some of the practices in the off-hours.
Most shows (especially those at military bases) are free to attend.
Be prepared for rain or bad weather.
This is an outdoor show. If the clouds are low and visibility is not great, the main acts usually have a low show they will perform. Unfortunately, it isn’t as impressive as when the pilots fly unfettered, but at least you will get to see it. If it rains completely, it may be canceled.
Be prepared for sun and good weather.
Ideally, it is a gorgeous summer day without a cloud in the sky for your airshow. While this means that the show will be that much larger in the skies, it will also mean you will want to protect the skin and the face. Take sunscreen, baseball hats, and reapply liberally throughout the day. These shows happen at large, open fields (with runways), so shade is sparse. Be sure to force the family to drink a lot of water, too.
Read the rules carefully.
Before you go, know what you can take in and operate accordingly. Most military base shows will not allow backpacks inside. There are security protocols that must be obeyed. Know what you can take in.
Plan for logistical challenges and waits.
There are hundreds of people at airshows. This means that parking will be crowded, transportation to and from the parking lot to the field will require a wait, and when everyone exits the show at the exact same time, after the culminating act, there will be lines again. Some flexibility will be required and some patience goes a long way.
We tried once to avoid lines and walked from the show back to parking (which was a big mistake as we got lost and ended up the last ones off the base with very tired children). We have also parked in the lot then made our way to a side street, where we hailed an Uber to drive us the 5 miles to the entrance. We have paid additional money for better parking lots. But no matter what you do, there is going to be some time spent waiting on a people mover. Be creative, be flexible, and if you figure out a great system, please let us know.
Have ear protection!
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This is so important for everyone, not just the kids. These jets are loud. Even walking the tarmac and seeing the static show can be an overwhelming experience for the ears. For kids, we love something more substantial like “ear muffs.” But you can also get some very simple foam earplugs that will do the trick.
Plan to spend some cash.
Even if the show is free to attend, you will likely buy concessions inside the park (we always get frozen lemonade). There will also be exclusive souvenir gear available for purchase. At our last airshow, we paid to be in the family tent, where unlimited food and beverages were provided (not to mention an incredible view). It really depends on what matters to you and what you value, but we haven’t yet done this in a way that has been utterly free. Again, if you want to participate in the kids’ zone, that will be additional spending.
Ultimately, we hope that you give this experience a try! It can make for a memory-filled day and instill feelings of patriotism or enhance those you already have.
It is amazing what America is up to (as we learned at NASA as well). As you look overhead, you can’t help but be proud of the talent here in our homeland.
Last Updated on June 12, 2018 by Mrs. Family Trip