As a skydiver and wingsuiter, few things excite me more than the annual pilgrimage to Summerfest at Skydive Chicago. This event is the pinnacle of the summer skydiving season, drawing enthusiasts from across the globe. This year, despite a few rainy days that kept us grounded, the experience was nothing short of exhilarating.

The Atmosphere: A Skydiving Mecca

Skydive Chicago is a world-class dropzone, and Summerfest transforms it into a skydiving mecca. With 600 skydivers in attendance, the energy was electric. The event boasted an impressive fleet of five planes: three Twin Otters and two Skyvans. During peak times, all five aircraft were in the air, ferrying jumpers to altitude as quickly as possible. The sound of the engines revving up for another load became the soundtrack of the week.

The Weather: Unpredictable but Manageable

Mother Nature decided to add her own twist to the festivities this year. While rain showers did interrupt some days, the downtime provided a chance to bond with fellow skydivers, exchange stories, and plan jumps for when the skies cleared. The weather delays reminded us that skydiving is as much about patience as it is about the thrill. And when the clouds finally parted, we were more than ready to take to the skies.

The Jumps: Costumes, Creativity, and Learning from the Best

One of the unique aspects of Summerfest is the daily costume-themed jump. Every day, skydivers donned creative outfits, adding a splash of color and fun to the sky. Whether it was superheroes, animals, or movie characters, the skies over Skydive Chicago were filled with imaginative displays that made each jump even more memorable.

Beyond the costumes, one of the highlights was the opportunity to jump with some of the most experienced wingsuiters in the world. I had the privilege of joining a thrilling wingsuit formation with more than 15 other wingsuiters. The rush of flying in such a large group, navigating the air currents and maintaining our formation, was beyond exhilarating. It’s these moments that make Summerfest truly special—a chance to push your limits while surrounded by others who share your passion.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

If you’re considering attending Summerfest or a similar event for the first time, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

1. Plan for All Weather Conditions: Summerfest is known for its unpredictable weather. Bring gear for both warm and cool conditions, and be prepared for rain delays. Use downtime wisely by attending workshops, exploring vendor booths, or simply networking with other skydivers.
2. Arrive Early: With 600 skydivers and five planes, the dropzone can get busy quickly. Arriving early ensures you get on the first loads of the day and have plenty of time for multiple jumps.
3. Embrace the Costume Jumps: Themed jumps are a big part of the fun at Summerfest. Get creative with your costumes, and don’t be afraid to stand out. It’s all about having fun and adding a unique twist to your skydiving experience.
4. Take Advantage of the Learning Opportunities: With so many experienced skydivers in attendance, there’s a wealth of knowledge to tap into. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, join group jumps, or participate in workshops. The insights you gain could be invaluable to your growth as a skydiver.
5. Stay for the Parties: The Tiki Hut parties are legendary. After a full day of jumping, unwind and socialize with your fellow skydivers. It’s a great way to build connections and make lasting memories.

The Vendors: A Skydiver’s Playground

No Summerfest would be complete without the vendors. This year’s lineup was impressive, with booths offering everything a skydiver could dream of—new suits, helmets, altimeters, and more. It was a skydiver’s playground, with the latest gear on display and experts on hand to answer questions. Even on the rainy days, the vendor area buzzed with activity as skydivers browsed, tested, and bought the tools they’d use in the skies.

The Nightlife: Parties at the Tiki Hut

After a day of jumps, the fun didn’t stop. Every night, the dropzone’s Tiki Hut came alive with parties that kept the energy high well into the evening. The camaraderie that started in the skies carried over to the dance floor, as skydivers from around the world shared stories, laughter, and a few well-earned drinks. The final night was particularly memorable, capped off by a spectacular fireworks show that lit up the night sky. It was the perfect way to celebrate the week’s achievements and bid farewell to another incredible Summerfest.

Conclusion: A Week Well Spent

Despite the weather challenges, Summerfest 2024 was a week well spent. The camaraderie, the adrenaline, and the shared passion for skydiving made every moment worthwhile. Whether I was on the ground waiting for the rain to pass, soaring through the skies in a wingsuit with 15 others, or dancing the night away at the Tiki Hut, the experience was unforgettable. The grand finale, with fireworks lighting up the sky, was a fitting end to a week of skydiving magic. Summerfest continues to be a highlight of my skydiving year, and I’m already counting down the days until next year’s event.