There’s no doubt about it. The Chicago Air & Water Show, in its 41st year, is one of the city’s most popular annual events. Last year some 2.2 million onlookers crowded the lakefront for the water and aerial displays, and you can expect a similar crowd Saturday and Sunday for such popular highlights as the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Leap Frog Parachute Team and flyovers by assorted aircraft, including F-15s and F-18s.
But how best to enjoy the show? Here are some tips:
– Where to view the show:
Since North Avenue is ground zero for the show, that’s where things will be the most crowded. So, this might be a good time to call up a friend or relative who lives elsewhere along the lakefront. (You may also consider The Hancock Observatory at John Hancock Center, 875 N. Michigan Ave., which opens at 9 a.m. Tickets: $8.50 adults, $6 seniors and children ages 5-12. 1-888-875-VIEW.)
– When to get there:
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The water show is from 9 to 10:30 a.m., with air show hours from 11 a.m. to about 4 p.m. If you’re dead-set on viewing the show from North Avenue, keep in mind that people start arriving as early as 6 a.m., so get there early for the best viewing spot.
– What to bring:
“We really recommend that people bring a blanket, a hat, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable, light-colored clothing or swim suits,” says Tracy Shields, a publicist for the Mayor’s Office of Special Events, which sponsors the show. “Water is important because even though there are concessions at North Avenue, lines can be long. For a lot of people, this is an annual family outing, and they set up tents and have elaborate picnic lunches.”
– Getting there:
It’s best to take public transportation. Extra CTA trains and buses will be running both days of the show, as well as additional Metra trains. Parking is limited near North Avenue Beach and, according to Shields, “if you take the CTA you can come and go any time you want.” 312-744-3315.
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