2026 Airshow Season Guide: Major Events, Schedules, and Official Sources

The 2026 airshow season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with America’s 250th birthday celebrations adding special significance to events across the country. This guide covers what to expect and where to find the most accurate, up-to-date schedule information.

Major Events in 2026

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

Dates: July 20-26, 2026
Location: Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, Wisconsin

The world’s largest aviation gathering returns to Wisconsin with nine air shows over seven days. Special night air shows are scheduled for July 22 and 25, featuring America 250 celebrations. Youth 18 and under receive free admission thanks to Boeing sponsorship.

Official Information: eaa.org/airventure

Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT)

Dates: July 17-19, 2026
Location: RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, UK

The world’s largest military airshow features a “Fighter Meet” theme for 2026, highlighting a century of air combat aircraft. A “Royal Flight” sub-theme marks 30 years since RIAT received Royal status. Aircraft arrivals begin July 15-16.

Official Information: airtattoo.com

Farnborough International Airshow

Dates: July 2026 (even years)
Location: Farnborough Airport, Hampshire, UK

One of the world’s premier aerospace trade shows, with public days featuring spectacular flying displays. Check the official site for confirmed 2026 dates.

Official Information: farnboroughairshow.com

U.S. Military Demonstration Teams

U.S. Navy Blue Angels

The Blue Angels’ 2026 season runs from March through November, with performances across the United States. Notable events include:

• Season Opener: NAF El Centro, CA (March)
• Pensacola Beach Airshow: July
• Homecoming: NAS Pensacola, FL (November 6-7)

Official Schedule: blueangels.navy.mil/show

U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds

The Thunderbirds’ 2026 schedule features shows honoring America’s 250th birthday. The season includes appearances at major venues across the country.

Key 2026 appearances include Luke AFB (March), multiple beach shows in Florida, the Chicago Air & Water Show (August), and California shows in October.

Official Schedule: airforce.com/thunderbirds/schedule

Canadian Forces Snowbirds

Canada’s national aerobatic team performs at events throughout North America. Check their official schedule for 2026 appearances.

Official Information: RCAF Snowbirds

Finding Regional Airshows

Beyond the major military demonstrations, hundreds of regional airshows take place annually. These events often feature:

• Warbird displays and flights
• Civilian aerobatic performers
• Static aircraft displays
• Drone light shows
• STEM and educational exhibits

Airshow Calendars and Resources

For comprehensive listings of airshows near you, these resources maintain updated calendars:

• ICAS (International Council of Air Shows): airshows.aero – Industry organization with event listings
• AirshowStuff: airshowstuff.com – Community-maintained schedule database
• Milavia: milavia.net/airshows – Military aviation event calendar

Planning Your 2026 Airshow Experience

To make the most of the 2026 airshow season:

• Book accommodations early – Hotels near major events like Oshkosh fill up months in advance
• Check official sources – Always verify dates before booking travel
• Follow teams on social media – Schedule changes are often announced first on official accounts
• Consider multiple shows – Different venues offer unique perspectives and lineups
• Watch for ticket sales – Popular events sell premium seating quickly

America 250 Celebrations

2026 marks America’s 250th birthday, and many airshows are planning special tributes. Expect:

• Heritage flights pairing modern aircraft with historic warbirds
• Patriotic-themed night shows
• Special formations and flyovers
• Historical aircraft commemorating aviation milestones

Both the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds have announced America 250-themed elements for their 2026 demonstrations.

The 2026 airshow season offers unprecedented opportunities to witness aviation excellence while celebrating America’s quarter-millennium. Whether you’re planning your first airshow experience or your fiftieth, the combination of skilled performers, historic aircraft, and patriotic celebrations makes this a season worth marking on your calendar.