Be sure to cover your ears this weekend because the Chicago Air and Water Show is returning to the lakefront! The sky will be filled with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Golden Knights, moving at incredible speeds.
When does the Chicago Air and Water Show take place?
The events will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Rehearsal is set for Friday, but this may change depending on the weather.
Who are the performers?
U.S. Air Force
- Thunderbirds
U.S. Army
- Parachute Team: Golden Knights
Other Military Demonstrations
- U.S. Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard: C-17 Globemaster demonstration and F-22 Raptor demonstration
- U.S. Marine Corps: F-35B Lightning II demonstration
- U.S. Coast Guard: Air and Sea Rescue Demonstration
Civilian Demonstrations
- Chicago Fire Department Air and Sea Rescue Unit
- Chicago Police Department helicopters
- Performers: Kevin Coleman, Susan Dacy, Ed “Hamster” Hamill, and Trojan Phlyers
Now that you have all the information, if you want to watch the show in style, here are the best places to view the Chicago Air and Water Show.
Where to watch the Chicago Air and Water Show
The beaches will open at 6 a.m. If you wish to watch from the sand, it will be first come, first served, so expect it to be quite crowded. If you want a more intimate experience—without the crowds—check out the places below.
Beachside restaurants
If you want to watch right by the lake, you can book a cabana at The Shore Club, which offers unobstructed views of the show during the performance.
Another option is Whisper’s at Oak Street Beach, where you can dine with a stunning view of the air and water performances.
You can also rent a boat and pick up food from Pizzeria Portofino for a unique lakefront viewing experience.
Rooftop bars and restaurants
J. Parker, located at the Hotel Lincoln, offers unobstructed views of Lincoln Park. Meanwhile, the CloudBar, situated at 875 North Michigan Avenue, provides unparalleled views of the Chicago skyline—perfect for the Air and Water Show.
For all-day dining with a view, check out the 11th-floor Terrace at Miru in The St. Regis Chicago.
If you’d like to watch from the Loop, head to Cindy’s Rooftop atop the Chicago Athletic Association, where you can enjoy the show from its balcony.
Nearly all rooftop locations offer breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the skyline, as well as the action of the Air and Water Show.
