What to Expect at the 2026 Grissom Air & Space Expo
The sights, sounds and excitement of aviation will return to north central Indiana when the 2026 Grissom Air & Space Expo takes place Aug. 29 and 30 at Grissom Air Reserve Base. Located less than 30 minutes from Kokomo, the event combines breathtaking aerial demonstrations, historic aircraft, interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities into one unforgettable weekend.
Whether you've attended before or are considering your first air show, here's a look at what you can expect.
High-Flying Performances
One of the biggest draws of this year's expo is the return of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Known as "America's Team," the elite demonstration squadron flies six F-16 Fighting Falcons in precision formations and high-speed maneuvers that showcase the skill and professionalism of the United States Air Force.
The flying schedule also features an impressive lineup of performers, including Australian aerobatic pilot Aarron Deliu, the NextGen Eagles Aerobatic Team flying their iconic Christen Eagle II biplanes, aerobatic legend Greg Koontz, and the U.S. Air Force Academy's Wings of Blue parachute team.
Visitors will also have the chance to see several remarkable aircraft in action, including the historic P-51 "Gunfighter" Mustang, an F-16 Fighting Falcon demonstration, American Huey 369's Vietnam-era helicopters, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and the legendary Douglas DC-3.
Explore Aircraft Up Close
The excitement doesn't stop once the aircraft land.
The expo's static display area gives visitors an opportunity to get an up-close look at aircraft that represent decades of military and aviation history. Featured displays include the massive C-5M Super Galaxy, the KC-135 Stratotanker, the B-52 Stratofortress, the T-6 Texan II trainer, the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the beautifully restored P-51 "Gunfighter."
History enthusiasts will also want to see Doc, one of only two airworthy B-29 Superfortresses in the world. Restored after decades in the Mojave Desert, the aircraft now serves as a flying museum honoring those who built, maintained and flew these historic bombers during World War II.
More Than an Air Show
The Grissom Air & Space Expo offers plenty to experience beyond the flight line.
Car enthusiasts can climb behind the wheel through Precision Exotics' Supercar Driving Experience, giving visitors the opportunity to drive some of the world's most recognizable exotic cars right on the air show grounds.
Families and curious minds alike can spend time in STEM City, where organizations offer hands-on activities that explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Exhibits include flight simulators, a cockpit and boom pod display, NearSpace Education, the Air Force Performance Lab, Purdue STEM Center activities, a shooting simulator and Birds of Prey demonstrations.
Fun for Kids
The Kids Zone ensures younger visitors have just as much to enjoy as the aviation fans.
Activities include a rock wall, obstacle course, bouncy houses, slides, the Wipeout inflatable, Boulder Dash and kiddie airplane rides, making the Expo a destination for families looking to spend the day together.
A Regional Tradition Close to Home
With free general admission and parking, the Grissom Air & Space Expo has become one of Indiana's premier aviation events. Its location at Grissom Air Reserve Base, just a short drive from Kokomo, makes it an easy day trip for local residents or visitors spending the weekend in the area.
From the precision flying of the Thunderbirds to hands-on STEM exhibits, historic warbirds, military aircraft and activities for all ages, the 2026 Grissom Air & Space Expo offers something for nearly everyone. Whether your interest is aviation, military history, engineering or simply spending a fun day with family, this year's event promises plenty to see both in the air and on the ground.
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