Show Me State Airshow: Missouri’s Premier Aviation Spectacular

Event Snapshot

• What: Show Me State Airshow – one of the Midwest’s largest airshows.
• Where: Whiteman Air Force Base, Knob Noster, MO (~5 mi east of I-70).
• When: Annually, late August / early September (2 days, typically Saturday–Sunday).
• Cost: FREE admission & parking.
• Host: 509th Bomb Wing (B-2 Spirit home base).

Star Performers & Aircraft

• U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds (F-16) – precision aerial demonstration team.
• U.S. Navy Blue Angels (F/A-18) – iconic carrier-capable jet team.
• B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber – Whiteman’s signature aircraft; flyovers & static display.
• F-22 Raptor – Air dominance demo (when available).
• F-16 Fighting Falcon, A-10 Warthog, C-130 Hercules, KC-135 Stratotanker – flybys & ground displays.
• Civilian warbirds, aerobatic performers, helicopters – P-51 Mustang, T-6 Texan, Red Bull performers, etc.

Ground Attractions

• Static displays – Walk up to/under aircraft, talk to pilots/crews.
• STEM/education zone – Hands-on aviation science for kids.
• Military exhibits – EOD, security forces, recruiters.
• Food trucks, beer garden, merchandise vendors.
• Live music stage – Regional bands.

History

Launched 1985 as “Whiteman AFB Open House.” Renamed “Show Me State Airshow” in 1995. Now draws 100,000+ attendees annually—major economic driver for Johnson County.

Pro Tips for Attendees

• Arrive by 8 AM – Gates open early; traffic builds fast.
• Ear protection mandatory – Especially for kids (jet noise >140 dB).
• Sunscreen, hat, folding chairs/blanket – Limited shade on flight line.
• Cash & card – Most vendors take both; ATMs scarce.
• No large bags/coolers/pets – Base security restrictions.
• Hydrate! – August heat + concrete = dehydration risk.

Getting There

Whiteman AFB is 5 miles east of Knob Noster via MO-23/US-50 from I-70 Exit 58. Follow signs to designated parking (shuttles to flight line).

The Show Me State Airshow delivers world-class military aviation up close—for free. It’s a Missouri bucket-list event.