4 days ago
How to watch Chicago's Air and Water Show
Get ready for the rumbling, wheezing, thrilling sights and sounds of the Chicago Air and Water Show this weekend.
The big picture: U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds headline with the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights and the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs also performing.
10:30am-3pm Saturday and Sunday with views along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street.
The Blue Angels are not performing this year.
Flashback: The first show was held in 1959 with a budget of $88, featuring a Coast Guard Air Sea Rescue demonstration, water skiers, a water ballet, games and a diving competition.
Reality check: If the crowded lakefront isn't your scene, there are plenty of other spots to check out the action.
Watch parties
360 Chicago
Escape the heat and observe the show from the 94th-floor observation deck of 175 E. Delaware (the Hancock).
9am-11pm Friday-Sunday.
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Enjoy the outdoors as entertainment unfolds in the sky at the theater and eatery.
11am-4pm Saturday-Sunday at Fullerton and the Lakefront.
City Cruises
Cruise the lake for two hours with brunch, music and a show.
Times vary, Saturday-Sunday at Navy Pier.
Tickets start at $129.
Kayak Chicago
Grab a paddle and take in the sights as the show roars overhead.
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Food and Drink Specials
Castaway's Beach Club
Be in the center of the action at the North Avenue viewing party with breakfast and lunch buffets and an open bar.
9am-3pm Sunday at North Avenue Beach.
Tickets start at $199.
Whispers
Watch the festivities at this outdoor party for giveaways, cocktails, a beach barbecue buffet, and photo ops.
10:30am-3:30pm Saturday-Sunday at Oak Street Beach.
Tickets start at $25.
Miru
Robert's Pizza & Dough Co.
Planning an outdoor picnic? Pick up a to-go package that includes pizza, a bottle of wine, apps and salads from the restaurant that regularly ranks as the best pizza in the U.S.
Packages start at $110.
