Tinker Air Show 2025: Thunderbirds Return, Event Schedule, Parking, and What to Know Before You Go
The Tinker Air Show is back for 2025 – bigger, louder, and more exhilarating than ever. After captivating over 300,000 spectators in 2023, Tinker Air Force Base is once again opening its gates on June 28 and 29, drawing aviation fans from across Oklahoma and beyond. The star attraction this year? The long-awaited return of the legendary U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, performing in Oklahoma for the first time since 2019.
From aerial acrobatics to cutting-edge technology exhibits and STEM showcases, here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of your weekend at Tinker AFB.
Thunderbirds Return to Oklahoma City After 6-Year Hiatus
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are making a triumphant return to Tinker Air Force Base for their first Oklahoma performance since 2019. Known for their precise formations and high-speed maneuvers, the Thunderbirds are expected to take to the skies around 4:00 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
This year’s appearance is part of a revamped air show experience, which the Air Force has modernized following the COVID-19 hiatus. The 2025 performance brings fresh energy, new formations, and a dynamic mix of air and ground attractions aimed at both longtime enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
What’s New at the Tinker Air Show 2025?
In addition to the Thunderbirds, guests can expect a packed schedule of military and civilian aircraft displays, educational experiences, and live entertainment. Highlights include:
- U.S. Air Force Drill Team
- USAF Rock Band performances
- S.T.E.A.M. City: A large interactive exhibit promoting science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through fun and educational activities
- Over a dozen aircraft on display, including:
- MV-22 Osprey
- C-17 Globemaster III
- KC-135 Stratotanker
- Fighter jets and historic aircraft
The show is free to attend, and parking is also free, making this one of the most accessible major events in Oklahoma this summer.
Schedule of Events – Tinker Air Show 2025
Plan your day ahead of time to catch the best demonstrations and avoid missing key performances. Here’s the full event schedule for both Saturday and Sunday (June 28–29):
- 8:00 a.m. – Gates open to the public
- 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Vendors open
- 8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – STEM City Hangar open
- 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – USAF Rock Band performs on stage
- 10:00 a.m. – Air Force Drill Team performance (Show Center)
- 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Aerial demonstrations (including Thunderbirds at 4 p.m.)
- 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – Drill Team performance (STEM City)
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – USAF Rock Band closing set
- 5:00 p.m. – Gates close for the day
What to Bring: Items Allowed on Base
Visitors are encouraged to bring only essential items to streamline security screening. Approved items will be inspected at the entrance. Here’s what you can bring:
✅ Sunscreen – Strongly recommended due to full-day exposure
✅ Ear protection – For all ages, especially children
✅ Sealed water bottles or empty reusable bottles (refill stations available)
✅ Hydration packs – Must be empty at entry
✅ Pre-packaged snacks
✅ Cell phones, cameras, camcorders
✅ Small chairs and folding chairs (no oversized lawn chairs)
✅ Baby food, formula, and medications (must be in original packaging)
✅ Diaper bags and strollers
✅ Umbrellas – Handheld only
✅ Blankets and wheelchairs
🎯 Pro Tip: If you’re bringing strollers or folding wagons for children, use the Hruskocy Gate for entry to avoid shuttle delays.
Prohibited Items: What Not to Bring to the Air Show
For safety and security, certain items are not allowed on the base. These include:
🚫 Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives and tools)
🚫 Illegal or controlled substances, including marijuana and CBD
🚫 Backpacks (except clear/see-through or small camera bags)
🚫 Drones, balloons, kites
🚫 Alcohol, fireworks, and grills
🚫 Coolers (unless for baby food/medicine and under 10x7x7 inches)
🚫 Smoking/vaping devices
🚫 Large lawn chairs, tents, or pop-up awnings
🚫 Pets (except service animals)
🚫 Rollerblades, scooters, skateboards, or bicycles
🚫 Excessive bags like duffels and briefcases
🚫 Pepper spray, tasers, or laser pointers
🚫 Walkie-talkies, scanners, or 3D scanning cameras
All guests will be subject to a security screening process, so packing light is strongly advised.
Parking and Transportation: How to Get to the Tinker Air Show
✅ Off-Base Parking (Recommended)
The easiest and most efficient way to attend the show is via off-base parking at Tinker Building 9001 (Old GM Plant), located near SE 74th Street between Air Depot Blvd. and Douglas Blvd.
- From I-240, exit Air Depot or Douglas and follow signage to SE 74th.
- Free shuttle buses begin at 8:00 a.m. and operate continuously until 5:00 p.m.
- Guests will go through security either before boarding or upon arrival.
🚗 On-Base Parking (Limited Access)
Guests may also choose to drive directly onto the base using public access gates:
- Hruskocy Gate (North side, off I-40 & 29th St.) – Ideal for those from Midwest City
- Lancer Gate (East side, off Douglas Blvd.)
Parking is located near Building 3001. From there, guests walk to the air show entrance and pass through the security checkpoint. Wheelchair and stroller users are encouraged to use the on-base gates for easier access.
Weather Contingencies & Live Coverage
While Oklahoma weather in late June can be unpredictable, Tinker Air Force Base has contingency plans in place to handle rain, lightning, or storms. In the event of severe weather, air performances may be delayed or adjusted for safety.
This is a great way for viewers who can’t attend in person to still enjoy the experience.
Experience the Technology: S.T.E.A.M. City
For families and students, S.T.E.A.M. City is a must-visit exhibit. Short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics, this zone is packed with hands-on activities, robotics demonstrations, tech talks, and kid-friendly educational games.
It’s designed to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and aviators — all while having fun.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Tinker Air Show 2025
The Tinker Air Show isn’t just an aviation showcase—it’s a celebration of American airpower, military excellence, and community engagement. With high-energy aerial performances, immersive ground displays, and family-friendly experiences, it’s no wonder the show draws hundreds of thousands of spectators every year.
This year, the Thunderbirds’ return adds an extra spark of excitement that hasn’t been felt since before the pandemic. For aviation lovers, families, and anyone looking for a spectacular way to spend the weekend, the Tinker Air Show 2025 is an unmissable event.
Final Tips Before You Go
✔️ Arrive early – gates open at 8:00 a.m.
✔️ Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes
✔️ Bring ear protection, especially for young children
✔️ Use off-base parking for the smoothest experience
✔️ Be patient during entry and exit due to large crowds