Top 10 Air Show Tips for Families

MADISONVILLE, KY — With the Wings over Western Kentucky Airshow coming up this October (Saturday, October 7 to be exact!), we all know that planning the perfect family day out can be sometimes difficult. We've put together a Top 10 Air Show Tips for Families to help you plan for the exciting day at the Madisonville Regional Airport!

10. Invest in ear protection for children.

Yes, there will be earplugs at the show but some of the planes are loud…really, really loud and you don’t want to be miserable because your kids are suddenly scared or worse yet, their ears hurt. The announcer does a great job of letting the crowd know when protection is needed ahead of time so they won’t need to wear them all day.

9. Bring hand sanitizer and disposable wipes.

Portable toilets. Enough said.

8. Hold hands and make a personal Lost & Found point.

The show draws huge crowds so have a plan and stick together. Consider taking a picture of your children the morning of the show to be shared with the airshow safety and security team if you get separated from each other. Also, writing your cell phone number on your child’s arm or hand with permanent marker is a great idea. Do what you would do going to any large event such as an amusement park, fair or professional sporting event.

7. Bring bag chairs.

Different than an outdoor concert where a blanket might work, you will definitely want a chair for this event because the pavement can get hot and uncomfortable.

6. Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes.

We really can’t stress this one enough. The grounds for the air show stretch several city blocks and the walk from the parking lot can be a short haul as well (it's about 0.2 miles).

5. What should I wear?

1. Bring ponchos instead of umbrellas! The weather forecast looks to be good for the upcoming show but should our unpredictable Kentucky weather switch things up on us (never happens right?!?) you want to be able to move quickly, stay dry, and be able to watch the show even if it’s raining.

2. Wear sunscreen and reapply often! Shade is scarce at the show to allow for the amazing views of the planes.

3. Consider a hat for children and sunglasses for everyone because much of the day will be spent looking towards the sky.

4. Use the restroom BEFORE leaving the show.

As with any large event, with thousands of people leaving at the same time you may have some car time on your hands while you wait in traffic.

3. Bring cash.

There will be ATMs onsite but it will be easier for you to have cash. Some food and beverage vendors take card but it's possible some are cash only so plan ahead. No coolers are allowed on airport property, however we do recommend packing a small snack pack for the kiddos.

2. See it all!

There's a lot to see at the air show this year. Plan your day by visiting the schedule at wingsoverwesternkentucky.com/schedule

1. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone!

Be sure to use #WOWK23 to share your pics on social media!

The 2023 Wings over Western Kentucky Airshow takes over the Madisonville Regional Airport on Saturday, October 7 for a full day of high flying action. The event anticipates to attract several thousand attendees, so do plan ahead and give yourselves ample time. Admission and parking to the event is free. For more information on attractions & events, visit wingsoverwesternkentucky.com/performers

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