10 Cool Things To Do At AirVenture Oshkosh 2016

Though it only comes by once a year, fortunately time flies when you're flying! EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, can feel like it's just around the corner if you plan ahead, so here we're going to run through some of the best things to do at the show. For 2024, that's the week of July 22.

1. Pull Some Rivets.

If you ever wanted to try your hand... here's an opportunity! Learn just about every skill you need to build a plane. The daily hands-on workshops are included with admission, and no reservations are required.

2. Gawk At The Airplanes.

Each year, AirVenture Oshkosh welcomes some of the most interesting aircraft in the world. In the past, we've seen everything from a 1909 Curtiss Pusher to a 1936 Ryan ST, from a NASA Super Guppy to warbirds galore, this impressive lineup represents a cross-section of the history of flight (subject to weather, mechanical or logistical issues, of course!).

3. Go Flying!

There are plenty of opportunities to take flights at AirVenture and gain a unique perspective of the world below. How about a ride in a 1928-29 Ford Tri-Motor, the world's first mass-produced airliner?

4. Watch The Night Sky Come To Life

Typically held on Wednesday and Saturday of the show, this year will prove no different, and you're going to want to be there.

And if you've never seenn air show at night? Aerobatics meet fireworks in a jaw-dropping display of precision and spectacle.

5. Ooh And Aah With The Snowbirds. Or Other Elite Teams.

Watch one of the most popular military aerial demonstration teams in the world in action. The Canadian Forces Snowbirds have taken to the skies for their dramatic formation flying. But you may also see the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Or the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Oh yeah!

6. Be Awe-Inspired By The Aircraft Of Past Military Engagements.

One year, you might check out the Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield aircraft, which formed one of the largest air power operations in history. In other years, the focus has been on World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War.

7. Watch Airplanes Act Like Helicopters, STOL Style.

The specially modified short takeoff/landing aircraft returns with the STOL Invitationals. Dozens of STOL aircraft participate each year, which include homebuilts and other airplanes specially modified to take off and land on runways that may be less than 500 feet long.

8. Meet Up With Women Who Fly At WomenVenture

This weeklong program offers activities and seminars designed to empower women and enable them to pursue their dreams in aviation. Typically, Wednesday will be a day of celebrating women in flight, which includes the Women in Aviation breakfast and the WomenVenture Power Lunch with dynamic speakers.

9. Get A Job

So popular, the Job Fair now has been extended from a single day to the full week. Taking place throughout the AirVenture grounds, the Job Fair gives attendees the opportunity to meet with notable aviation companies and other interested employers searching for potential candidates.

10. Run On The Runway (Well, Near It Anyway)!

When: Saturday

For the 18th year, participants of all ages are welcome to run (or walk!) the Runway 5K's unique 3.1-mile route around the Oshkosh grounds. Check out all the amazing aircraft as you navigate the new route for this year's charity event.

Get the latest AirVenture Oshkosh news at eaa.org.

Plane & PilotStaff