26-05-2025
When do the Thunderbirds practice?
(U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.) — Excitement is building over the Class of 2025 Graduation ceremony at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) on Thursday, May 29. The Air Force Thunderbirds arrive in Southern Colorado on Tuesday ahead of a busy schedule of practice flights before the big day.
The U.S. Air Force Demonstration Squadron, commonly known as the Thunderbirds, will land at Peterson SFB on Tuesday after a survey mission over the Academy from noon to 2:30 p.m.
Thunderbirds arrive at Peterson May 27
On Wednesday, May 28, the Thunderbirds will practice their graduation hat toss flyover of Falcons Stadium from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by their air show practice from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Falcons Stadium and surrounding parking lots are a restricted area on Wednesday, and law enforcement reminds the community not to pull over on I-25 or area roadways. If you would like to watch the practice or ceremony airshows, you must find a public parking lot or approved parking area.
Looking for a good spot to watch the Thunderbirds? Hotel Polaris is the spot
Locals should also be aware of increased traffic and road closures during both the Thunderbirds' practice flights and the graduation ceremony. The following roads will be closed on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.:
Stadium Blvd. from Pine Dr. to North Gate Blvd
Community Center Dr. from E. Douglass Dr. to Stadium Blvd
Academy Dr. from Lot 6 to Stadium Blvd
Parade Loop from USAFA Cemetery to Stadium Blvd.
Santa Fe Trail from Tri-intersection Bridge to Parade Loop
On Thursday, additional road closures and adjustments to traffic patterns are scheduled in support of guest arrival and departure from the Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony. The local community can expect traffic delays on I-25 near the Academy on Thursday.
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