Chicago Air and Water Show Takes Flight This Weekend

By Carrie Frillman

Keep your eyes to the sky, Chicagoans—a Super Stearman, Harriers, Skyhawk jets and an all-veteran parachute team will all take to lakefront this weekend for barrel rolls, nose dives and other exciting aerobatics.

It's hard to believe it's already time for one of the summer's most anticipated local events, but the Chicago Air and Water Show will be in full swing Aug. 17-18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The focal point will be North Avenue Beach in Lincoln Park—admission is free—but viewers can also see the show all along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street.

Just as he has done for the past 20 years, Herb Hunter will be "the voice" of this year's soiree, which includes headliners like the Aeroshell Aerobatic Team, Sean D. Tucker & Team Oracle and Dave Dacy in the Super Stearman.

Boat restrictions on Lake Michigan will be in effect from 7 a.m., city officials say, and boaters must follow the lead of the U.S. Coast Guard and Chicago Police Marine Unit. 

The program for both Saturday and Sunday will be the same but there is no schedule outlining who will be performing at what times. 

"This is decided by the pilots the day of the event," a city notice says. "You can count on the headliners performing last."

Alcohol, barbecue grills, fireworks and explosives, illegal substances and weapons, pop-up tents or canopies, balloons, kites, flag poles and all pets except for service animals will be prohibited from the festival grounds. Those attending are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and coolers to the beach, however.

If you aren't able to make the festivities, you can tune into WBBM Newsradio 780 and 105.9FM between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for play-by-play coverage of the action.

Are you attending this year's show? Where's the best view in the city? Tell us in the comments section.