Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show

If you like speed and big, powerful machines, the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show is for you. And even if you aren't particularly turned on by these things, there is still plenty to enjoy by attending this fun and family friendly event. All you have to do is look up to see some amazing examples of aerial acrobatics, racing airplanes, and demonstrations by precision military flying teams. The USAF Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform at this year's show; just seeing these guys is worth a day at the Reno Air Races. I have watched their aerobatics several times and never get tired of it. They are awesome.

You will enjoy acres of historic and military aircraft displayed on the tarmack at Reno Stead Field Airport. Active duty military planes are accompanied by their crews and many are open for tours. Numerous vendors are available around the show area to provide visitors with food, drink, and a variety of aviation related products.

You can purchase tickets in advance, but they are always available at the gate. I recommend you go the few extra bucks for a pit pass, which allows you to get up close to the racing airplanes and watch the ground crews work on these fast flyers. The unlimited class planes are WWII fighters, souped up to hit 500 mph.

The Reno Air Races are flown at Reno Stead Field Airport, about 8 miles north of downtown Reno. Before you head out, learn the details by reading my article on the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show. You can also get a glimpse of what you will see from by Reno Air Races and Air Show pictures.