Every year in July, the small town of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, transforms into a bustling hub for aviation enthusiasts. This transformation is thanks to the EAA AirVenture, an event that has been captivating audiences for over 85 years!

This year, I was lucky enough to attend, even if it was just for a day. From the moment I arrived, the sheer scale of the event was beyond my wildest imagination. Over 686,000 people attended the week-long event, and more than 10,000 airplanes landed at Oshkosh airport. Many attendees camped in the campgrounds, and I even know of a pilot who slept in his own flying RV!

The afternoon air show was a spectacular highlight of my visit. I witnessed incredible performances by the Canadian Forces Skyhawks skydivers, the Red Bull Air Force, EAA Warbirds, and many others. The sky was filled with the roar and speed of the US F-16 Viper and Canadian F-18 Hornet, their acrobatics leaving the crowd gasping in amazement. However, the show’s finale, performed by the nine Canadian Forces Snowbirds, truly stole the spotlight. Their precision and grace in the air were nothing short of magical.

After the air show, I spent time exploring the various exhibits and met some popular YouTubers. I got up close to iconic planes like the B-52, C-130, and F-16. Meeting Josh and Chelsea from Aviation101 was a particular highlight; we discussed their thrilling flight over the New York skyline, an adventure I hope to experience myself one day. Their passion for aviation was truly inspiring.

The Piper, Cessna, and Cirrus tents showcased their latest offerings, and it was exciting to see new models like the Piper Fury, Cessna 208T, and Cirrus G7 in person. Each aircraft gleamed under the sun, a testament to modern aviation engineering. The corporate jets, such as the Citation, were also on display, adding a touch of luxury to the event.

Inside the hangars, numerous vendor booths featured products related to aviation, including lights for planes, headsets for pilots, insurance, flight courses, and much more. Each booth offered a unique glimpse into the world of aviation technology and services. I even got to try on a pilot headset, which I have been considering buying.

The evening culminated in a breathtaking fireworks and drone show. This coordinated spectacle, with fireworks launched from the ground and airplanes, along with synchronized drones, left the audience in awe. The sky was ablaze with color and light, a perfect ending to an exhilarating day.

Reflecting on my short visit to AirVenture, I realized how much there is to see and do in just one day. The energy, passion, and camaraderie among aviation enthusiasts made it a truly unforgettable experience. I can’t wait to return next year, hopefully for the entire week! If you ever have the chance to attend, I highly recommend it – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.