The city says 2.2 million people watch the Chicago Air and Water Show each year. That’s about as many people as live in Houston, the fourth-largest city in the U.S. We’re talking epic numbers of sticky, sweaty, sun-dazed people packed onto the city shoreline for hours upon hours. And, amazingly, we’ve been doing it for 50 years. Here’s how to survive:
Go Friday. For the first time, the show begins on Friday. Besides the regular air spectacles — the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights are headlining — there’s also a concert at the North Avenue Beach Boat House, actor Bill Murray jumping out of a plane and fireworks.
Don’t even think about driving. Thousands will ignore this advice and drive anyway. Exits on Lake Shore Drive will close on and off during the event. Two words: Driving. Apocalypse. The No. 72N and No. 151 buses will drop you off at North Avenue beach. Or take the Red Line “L” to the Clark/Division stop and make your way north and east toward the lake.
Free parking … for bikes! Drop your bike off at the free bike valet at Theater on the Lake at Fullerton and the lakefront bike path. Did we mention this is free?
Pick your spot carefully. Hang out on the north side of the North Avenue Beach House, and you’ll get a good view of the concert, featuring hometown actor Gary Sinise and The Lt. Dan Band on Friday at 5 p.m. Fireworks will follow at 8:45 p.m.
If you need accessible seating, don’t dillydally. To reserve a spot in the North Avenue Beach House viewing stands, head to the Mayor’s Office for People With Disabilities tent (just northwest of the boat house) to get a wristband for that day. A wristband will get the person with a disability a seat, along with two companions. Call 312-744-7050 (voice), 312-744-2964 (TTY) for more information.
50TH CHICAGO AIR AND WATER SHOW
When: Air show begins at 3 p.m. Friday and concludes with the 5 p.m. concert and fireworks at 8:45 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, the water show starts at 9 a.m., with the air show kicking off around 11 a.m.
Where: Along the lakefront, though the show is best viewed around North Avenue Beach. Admission is free.
More: 312-744-3315 or check out chicagoairandwatershow.us
