Free Chicago Air and Water Show

Photo courtesy of Chicago Air and Water Show

One of the most anticipated events of the Summer is the thrilling Chicago Air and Water Show. For over six decades, Chicagoans have witnessed the exciting spectacle of pilots and parachuters performing daring tricks over Lake Michigan.

The largest show of its kind in the U.S., this year’s Air and Water Show is scheduled for August 10-11, 2024 at North Avenue Beach.

For the 64th annual Chicago Air and Water Show, the headliners are the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights. Other performers include Susan Dacy, Kevin Coleman and RJ Gritter Decathlon Aerobatics.

Photo of Navy Blue Angels courtesy of Chicago Air & Water Show

The events soar off from 10 AM-3 PM on both days and practice flyovers on August 9, 2024. The best views are between Oak Street Beach and Fullerton Avenue. Oak Street Beach, North Avenue Beach, Theater on the Lake and Navy Pier offer the best spots for viewing the show.

For smaller crowds, consider camping out at a smaller beach like Ohio Street Beach, or Belmont Harbor.

Arrive super early, by 7 AM, to snag your space. The best spots to view the show are along the lakefront, from Oak Street to Fullerton. North Avenue Beach is the focal point but the least amount of crowds are at elevated venues like The J Parker rooftop or Offshore rooftop.

Portable radios, chairs, binoculars and earplugs are recommended for the best experience. BBQ grills, tents, copies and flying objects like drones, flag poles, helium balloons and kites are not permitted.

Pets are not allowed unless they are service animals.

Photo of Air & Water Show crowds courtesy of Chicago Air & Water Show

Chicago on the Cheap tips:

If you’re just interested in the “Air” part of the show skip the crowds at the beach. Most of the planes flying in the show take off and land at the Gary International Airport in Gary, Indiana.

This flight path requires them to fly in from the south. They won’t be performing their routines but they will be flying in formation as they pass over downtown, buzzing buildings and flying low over the lake before they head north to North Avenue.