THUNDER & LIGHTNING OVER ARIZONA 2025

Welcome to the Thunder & Lightning Over Arizona Air Show!

On the weekend of March 22-23, we are opening the gates and inviting everyone to enjoy a free, weekend-long event packed full of entertainment. Come out and see dynamic aerial displays, memorable planes, and SO much more!

What Should I Bring?

Small Items
Empty bottles to fill with water, snacks in non-glass containers, small purses, and umbrellas (please avoid using umbrellas in reserved or VIP seating areas)

Larger Items
Wheelchairs and other medical devices.

For Viewing
Cameras, video recorders, binoculars, tripods (must be able to demonstrate all items are operable)

For Food/Vendor Purchases
Credit Cards / Mobile Payment / Cash (ATM's are available on site)

For Children
Strollers, wagons for toddlers, diaper bags, hearing protection.

For Medical Needs
Portable coolers for medicines and medical equipment are allowed; all items are subject to screening.

Suggestions to Pack
Comfortable shoes, hearing protection, sunscreen, cameras, clear plastic water bottles, pen for autographs, hat with a visor, sunglasses, cash (ATMs on site), sufficient gas in your vehicle's tank to wait in congested traffic.

Prohibited Items

Weapons of any kind
Including: pocketknives, pocket tools, scissors, box cutters, nunchucks, Billy clubs, large/heavy chain-linked jewelry or belts, mace/pepper spray, firearms.

Alcohol, illegal drugs

Toys that resemble firearms

Marijuana/CBD oil
Possession and use of marijuana or CBD oil is illegal on all federal installations.

Flammable Items/Fireworks

Large Portable Sun Protection
Tents or canopies of any kind.

Walking sticks
(not to include medical canes or walkers)

Spray paint/Silly string

Wheeled recreational devices
Golf carts, bicycles, skateboards, heelies, roller skates, rollerblades.

Containers
Containers for water must be plastic and empty to get through checkpoints. There will be water stations available for attendees to refill water bottles.

Cooking Equipment
Including grills.

Coolers

Large Bags
Rucksacks, backpacks, and large purses.

Walkie-talkies, HAM radios, scanners

Balloons

Drones or radio-controlled aircraft

Animals or Pets
(service animals permitted in accordance with ADA rules)

UMBRELLAS in seating areas
Small umbrellas are allowed in pedestrian/walking areas. Please avoid using umbrellas in reserved or VIP seating areas, as this will obstruct the view for other spectators.

Entry and Exit FAQ’s

Are tickets and parking passes free?
The show is completely free to the general public. General Admission parking is free. However, premium tickets are available for purchase, and VIP Parking is available on a limited basis to Platinum ticket holders. Those items will be available for purchase online using the link on the 355th Force Support Squadron's website. Link to be provided at a later time.

When do the gates open?
The gates open at 9:00am for the general public. Inbound gate closes at 2:00pm.

Will there be handicapped parking available?
Yes, there will be designated portions of the parking lots for properly marked handicapped vehicles.

Is tailgating allowed?
No, parking lots are reserved for transiting to and from the show only.

Do I need a military ID?
No, this event is open to the public.

Will I be able to leave and return from the show?
Yes, however you will have to process through the security checkpoint again.

 

 

GENERAL EVENT FAQs

Will there be food and drinks available for purchase?
Yes, there will be food, drinks, alcoholic drinks (we I.D.), and souvenirs available throughout the show area.

Is the show the same both days?
Yes! Performances, static displays, activities, and concessions are the same each day.

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
Alcoholic beverages may be purchased at the event, with proper I.D. You may NOT bring alcoholic beverages into the Air Show.

Are camping/folding chairs allowed?
Lawn chairs are permitted. Please note there is a lengthy walk from the parking lot to the general admission seating area.

Are there upgraded seating tickets?
Premium tickets are available for purchase prior to the event.

Do the food and souvenir vendors take cards?
Most of the vendors will accept major credit cards, but there will be ATMs on-site.