Get ready to look up! The 2025 Gary Air Show is set to return on Saturday, August 9, and Sunday, August 10, filling the skies with high-flying thrills and gravity-defying aerobatics. Presented by the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority (SSCVA), the City of Gary, and Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, this year’s show promises to be bigger and bolder, featuring an exciting lineup of national aerial acts.
Headlining the weekend’s festivities are the legendary U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, renowned for their precision formations and jaw-dropping maneuvers, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights, who will perform their elite parachute demonstration, gliding from thousands of feet above into the heart of the show. Joining them are a dynamic mix of civilian stunt pilots, vintage warbirds, and aerobatic teams that will showcase their skills in breathtaking displays of aviation excellence.
“The return of the Gary Air Show brings tremendous energy and economic opportunity to our city,” said the City's Mayor Eddie Melton. “We are excited to welcome back thousands of visitors who will experience not only world-class performances but also discover what Gary has to offer - from our stunning lakefront beaches to our welcoming community spirit.”
The show will take place 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with the Gary/Chicago International Airport serving as the staging area for the aerial acts.
The primary viewing location for spectators is Marquette Park (6918 Oak Avenue, Gary), a picturesque beachfront venue nestled along Lake Michigan’s south shore and bordered by the Indiana Dunes National Park. The park’s expansive beaches and dunes provide a spectacular backdrop for visitors to experience the aerial action up close.
This year’s event will also see a significant expansion of on-the-ground activities. Marquette Park will transform into a family-friendly festival hub, featuring an enhanced vendor village, food trucks, and beachfront attractions. Families can enjoy Kids Zones equipped with waterslides, playground, and interactive aviation activities, while J & M Excursions will offer kayak and pedal boat rentals on the serene waters of the Miller Lagoon.
“The Gary Air Show is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of community pride and aviation excellence,” said Phil Taillon, President/CEO of the SSCVA. “With world-class performers like the Thunderbirds and Golden Knights, expanded family activities, and a vibrant festival atmosphere, we are thrilled to welcome visitors to Gary for an unforgettable weekend.”
Attendees are encouraged to explore beyond the beachfront, as Gary’s Miller Beach neighborhood will be bustling with post-show activities, including unique shops, a variety of dining options, and their Lake Street Bar Crawl on Saturday.
For complete event details, including transportation, parking information, and a full list of aerial performers and activities, visit www.southshorecva.com/air-show. Be sure to also follow the official Gary Air Show Facebook page for special show updates; facebook.com/GaryAirShow.
