For many families, the sight of high-speed aircraft jetting in tight formation against a bright blue sky is as exciting as fireworks on the Fourth of July. That's why air shows, known for their family-friendly spirit, draw up to 18 million spectators annually. Besides dramatic aerial antics, the shows also feature lots of hands-on activities, such as aircraft simulators and rock-climbing walls. If you arrive an hour or so beforehand, you can often meet the pilots, who will gladly answer questions and show you the smaller aircraft.Here is a list of some of the best air shows on the circuit. If purchased in advance, most tickets cost $3 to $6 for kids and $5 to $10 for adults. Call ahead for dates.
- EAA OSHKOSH AIRVENTURE
Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Call (920-426-4800) or see their web site.
- RHINEBECK AERODOME
Rhinebeck, New York. Call (914-758-8610).
- MCAS MIRAMAR AIR SHOW
San Diego. Call (619-577-1000).
- THE SEAFAIR AIRSHOW
Seattle. Call (206-728-0123).
- WINGS OF FREEDOM AIRSHOW
Frederick, Maryland. Call (301-631-5357)
- THE CAPE COD AIR SHOW & MILITARY OPEN HOUSE
Falmouth, Massachusetts. Call (508-968-4226).
- SUSSEX AIR SHOW
- Sussex, New Jersey. Call (973-875-7337).
- TOPS INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW
- Rochester, New York. Call (716-256-4960).
MONEY SAVER TIP: Look for shows at military air bases. They're always free and have awesome aerial displays.
WEB RESOURCE: For a list of air shows in your area, log on to AIRshows.org.
For additional air show links go to:
LIBRARY LINK: Kids' Paper Airplane Book by Ken Blackburn and Jeff Lammers.
INSIDE SCOOP: For the best views, try to sit in the front center row of seats and bring earplugs, especially for kids.
Phone numbers, addresses and hours do change. Plan ahead and contact your destination before leaving home.
