If you’ve ever considered taking your kids to one of Arizona’s major air shows—either at Luke Air Force Base or Davis-Monthan Air Force Base—let me just say this:
It is amazing.
It is inspiring.
And… it is a full-day commitment.
We attended the 2026 Luke Air Force Days, and my son and I absolutely loved it. But if you’re going with littles, there are a few things I really wish I had known ahead of time.
Here’s your real-mom guide to doing an Arizona air show with kids.
Xo,
Amy
First—Yes, It’s Free (But Not Totally Free)
One of the best parts:
Admission is completely free.
But here’s the catch:
- Parking is around $40
- You’ll park in a large dirt lot
- Then take a charter bus to the entrance
It’s not a quick “park and walk in” situation.
We love free fun, and if you’re looking for more free events like the air show in the East Valley, be sure to bookmark our free family fun calendar; we’re always updating it with free events and festivals for East Valley families.
Plan for a LONG Day (Especially from the East Valley)
We left the East Valley about 90 minutes before gates opened…
…and it still took about 90 minutes to get inside.
By mid-morning:
- Families were waiting 1–2 hours just to park
- Lines only get longer as the day goes on
My biggest tip:
Go early. Earlier than you think you need to. We left Mesa around 7:30 a.m. and arrived at the front entrance gates (after parking, riding the shuttles, etc.) around 9 a.m.
Another tip from West Valley locals: this year for 2026, Justice Brothers Ranch (owners of Desert Farm Lights) charged $15 for tailgating and had food trucks on site for those who don’t want to deal with the traffic. Hopefully they do it again for 2028 for those who want an easier way to see the air show.
Strollers, Wagons & Getting In
Once you park, you’ll hop on a shuttle bus—and here’s what to know:
- Strollers must go underneath the bus
- You’ll need to quickly fold everything
- You won’t see your gear again until drop-off (it’s a 10 minute drive)
What I’d do differently next time:
Bring a wagon instead of a stroller—it can double as storage, a seat, and a rest spot.
What You Can (and Can’t) Bring
Security is similar to a large event or airport-style screening.
Allowed:
- Diaper bags
- Sealed water bottles
- Empty/reusable bottles (check current rules before you go)
Not allowed:
- Outside food
- Open drinks
Translation:
You’re going to be buying food there, so plan for it.
Arizona Weather = Be Ready for ANYTHING
This is one of the biggest things families underestimate.
At the 2026 show:
- Extreme heat advisory
- Full sun exposure
- Very little shade
In other years:
- Windy
- Surprisingly cold
What to bring:
- Sunscreen (and reapply often)
- Hats and sun-protective clothing
- Layers (yes, even in Arizona)
- Cooling towels if it’s hot
It’s LOUD (Like… Really Loud)
Jet demonstrations are incredible—but intense.
If your kids are sensitive to noise; Bring ear protection (especially for littles)
Seating: Learn from My Mistake
There is a lot of standing and looking up.
Next time, I’m bringing:
- Camping chairs
or - A wagon that doubles as seating
It makes a big difference in comfort for both kids and parents.
Food & Water Situation
Because you can’t bring food:
- Expect festival-style food vendors
- Prices are what you’d expect at a large event
- There are free water refill stations
Pro tip:
Bring a refillable bottle and use the stations to help offset costs.
What Makes It So Worth It
Despite all the logistics, this is what makes the day unforgettable:
- Kids can climb into real aircraft
- See vintage and modern planes up close
- Watch incredible flight demonstrations
- Hands-on STEM experiences
- A genuinely inspiring, patriotic atmosphere
It’s one of those experiences that sticks with your kids.
Final Mom Takeaway
This is not a casual outing.
This is a plan-ahead, pack-smart, commit-to-the-day experience.
But if you go in prepared, it can easily become one of your family’s most memorable days.
Pro Tip: It Alternates Each Year
Arizona’s major air shows rotate between:
- Luke Air Force Base (West Valley) 2026
- Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Tucson) 2027
So if you miss one year, you’ve got another chance the next. If you plan to go to the 2027 Tucson show, here’s more of our favorite things to do in Tucson with kids, if you make it into a full weekend trip.
