Quick Read
- The Chicago Air & Water Show 2025 took place on August 16-17, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and Army Golden Knights.
- Severe weather and flooding impacted the Chicago area, but Sunday’s weather remained clear for the event.
- The show highlighted the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.
- Local pilots and civilian performers added unique flair to the military displays.
- The event united residents and visitors, emphasizing community pride and resilience.
The Chicago Air & Water Show 2025, one of the city’s most cherished summer traditions, unfolded in grandeur this past weekend. The event, marking its 66th edition, featured breathtaking performances along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach serving as the central hub. Spanning August 16 and 17, the show captivated audiences despite challenges posed by severe weather and flooding in the Chicagoland area.
World-Class Performances Take Center Stage
This year’s headliners included the iconic U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights, who delivered unforgettable displays of precision and skill. The Thunderbirds, flying their F-16 jets at speeds exceeding 500 miles per hour, amazed onlookers with their synchronized aerial maneuvers over Chicago’s skyline. Commander Nathan Malafa, leading the squadron, shared his excitement: “Flying by the skyscrapers and seeing people wave from below is an unmatched experience.”
Meanwhile, the Golden Knights parachute team thrilled spectators with daring jumps, showcasing their pinpoint accuracy as they landed on predetermined targets. Sgt. Sloan Kanat, participating in their first demonstration year, expressed enthusiasm: “We aim to put on a safe and spectacular show for the public, showcasing our skills and connecting with fans.” Alongside military acts, civilian performers such as Kevin Coleman and Susan Dacy added unique flair to the event with aerobatic stunts and historical aircraft displays.
A Beloved Summer Tradition
For many Chicagoans, the Air & Water Show is a cornerstone of summer. Patricia Collazo, a lifelong resident, shared, “This is my favorite time of year. I grew up blocks from here, and I come every year without fail. It’s the perfect way to end the summer.” Visitors from out of state also flocked to the event, drawn by its reputation. Tony Barzelatto, a firefighter from New Jersey, remarked, “Seeing the U.S. aircraft in action gives me goosebumps. It’s a proud moment.”
The show also highlighted the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, adding a layer of historical significance. Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the event’s ability to unite residents and visitors, emphasizing its family-friendly nature and the opportunity to honor servicemen and women.
Weather Challenges and Community Resilience
Despite its success, the show faced considerable challenges due to severe weather earlier in the weekend. Heavy rains on Saturday night caused flash flooding across Chicago, disrupting traffic and leaving thousands without power. According to ABC7 Chicago, parts of the city received up to five inches of rain, leading to road closures and stranded vehicles. The Stevenson Expressway, a major thoroughfare, was temporarily shut down due to flooding.
ComEd crews worked tirelessly to restore power to affected areas, successfully reconnecting 80% of customers by Sunday afternoon. Although the storms subsided in time for the show’s second day, the impact on the community was palpable. Meteorologist Jaisol Martinez assured attendees that Sunday’s weather would remain clear, allowing the event to proceed without interruption.
Unexpected Highlights
In a serendipitous moment, actor Hayden Christensen and his daughter Briar Rose experienced a surprise flyover during their rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” at a Cubs game. The jet, part of rehearsals for the Air & Water Show, startled the duo but added an unplanned element of excitement. The incident, captured on social media, underscored the show’s broader impact on the city.
The Air & Water Show’s practice runs on Friday also drew large crowds, offering a preview of the weekend’s main attractions. Local pilots like Bob Richards, performing for the first time, expressed pride in showcasing their skills before family and friends. “It’s really special to perform in front of a hometown crowd,” Richards noted.
As the Chicago Air & Water Show 2025 concluded, it left behind memories of awe-inspiring performances and a testament to the city’s resilience in the face of challenges. This iconic event continues to symbolize the spirit of Chicago, blending tradition, innovation, and community pride.
Image – Chicago Tribune