In the age of social distancing and with a growing health-conscious public, many events have been affected. And air shows are no exception. There have been several cancellations and postponements of air shows in Minnesota and throughout the midwest in 2020. Keep reading to find out event updates for this year’s air shows.
AirExpo 2020
Status: Canceled
Find more information here: https://www.wotn.org/airexpo/
One of the most popular in the Twin Cities and throughout the state, AirExpo has unfortunately been canceled. In May, the operating group posted this message to their Facebook wall:
“Wings of the North Air Museum regrets to announce that AirExpo2020 scheduled for July 18-19 is cancelled.
Minnesota is still under a stay at home order through May 18 and we have no way to predict what will happen in the coming months nor what the health guidelines will be in July to protect people against this virus. By now, we would have to commit resources, arrange for logistical preparations, and have protective measures in place to protect our staff and attendees. Because of circumstances beyond our control, we see no clear path to being able to proceed with a safe AirExpo2020 and have determined that this year’s event will be cancelled.
For those of you who have already purchased tickets for AirExpo2020, we are in the process of issuing refunds. We know that this storm will pass. Together, we can come back stronger, safer, and ready for AirExpo2021 in July 2021.”
Duluth Air Show
Status: Postponed until June 26-27, 2021
Find more information here: https://duluthairshow.com/information/
Another popular Minnesota air show that’s been postponed is Duluth’s. Although it’s delayed until next year, there is somewhat good news – via the official Twitter account:
“With this year’s Duluth Airshow being postponed until next summer, we are happy to announce that the Runway 4K is still on! Registration opens on Monday, June 15th! This event is presented by Essentia Health and will take place at Sky Harbor Airport on Saturday, August 22nd. The race will be limited to the first 300 runners to allow for social distancing during the event as well as additional safety measures, so make sure to mark your calendars!” All in all, we think that’s a nice consolation for superfans.
2020 Paynesville Airshow
Status: Possibly Still On / August 9
Find more information here: https://www.pexfriends.com/
Last year’s event had a little bit of something for everyone, from airplane and helicopter displays, police K9 demonstrations, and tasty hamburger and hotdog baskets for $5. And, it appears that the event is still on for August 9, 2020, although that may change with new developments with the COVID-19 crisis. Keep checking their website for updated information.
Canby MN Fathers Day Free Air Show
Status: Canceled
Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/CanbyMNairshow/
Unfortunately, you’ll have to think up another fun Father’s Day activity (although there’s not much else that comes close to the excitement of a flurry of airplanes conducting their many airborne stunts), as this year’s Canby Airshow has been canceled.
The statement from the organization pinned to their Facebook wall reads: “Due to COVID 19 we have made the very hard decision to cancel our Airshow this year set for Father’s Day June 21st. This would have been our 15th year of Airshows in Canby at Myers Field. We currently still plan a regular Flyin breakfast with Dad’s Belgium Waffles and Airplane Rides. We will make adjustments to this as we get closer to Father’s Day as necessary.”
EAA Oshkosh Airventure 2020
Status: Canceled
Find more information here: https://www.eaa.org/airventure
Although it’s one of the most popular in the country, let alone the midwest, the annual Airventure show will not be taking place this year. A note from CEO & Chairman of the Board, Jack J. Peloton reads: “I have no choice but to cancel AirVenture 2020. Together, we can come back stronger, safer and ready for AirVenture 2021 and create a memorable world class aviation event. Because of our dedicated and enthusiastic EAA members, our Association is strong. We know that at some point this storm will pass. And over the next 12 months we will continue to support all of you as we again, together, grow EAA in the Spirit of Aviation.”
Chippewa Valley Air Show
Status: Canceled
Find more information here: https://chippewavalleyairshow.com/showinfo
Right across the Minnesota border, the Chippewa Valley Air Show takes place every June. The event, however, has been cancelled this year: “The Chippewa Valley Council, Boy Scouts of America is disappointed to announce the 2020 Chippewa Valley Air Show, scheduled for June 13 & 14, has been canceled
Chicago Air & Water Show
Status: Possibly Still On / August 15-16
Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoAirandWater/
The Chicago Air and Water Show is a truly unique experience, as some of the top civilian and military pilots thrill millions along Chicago’s North Avenue Beach. Plus, it’s completely free for everyone. As of now, it’s still happening, as long as social distancing measures are loosened in Chicago before then.
