Aviation Enthusiasts Gear Up for a Two-Day Celebration in Columbus

Mark your calendars for an extraordinary aviation event that promises to captivate enthusiasts of all ages. Held at the Columbus Municipal Airport and AirPark Columbus, this year's Aviation Day will expand into a two-day extravaganza on June 6 and 7. The theme "Yesterday and Today" brings together classic aircraft with cutting-edge aviation technology. Visitors can look forward to a diverse lineup of activities including static aircraft displays, live music, a drone light show, interactive experiences for children, and even a car show featuring both vintage and modern vehicles.
Day one kicks off with evening entertainment while day two offers thrilling flight opportunities aboard historic planes and helicopters. This event aims not only to entertain but also to educate attendees about aviation history and innovation. Whether you're a long-time aviation aficionado or simply curious about flight, there's something for everyone at this free community gathering.
Evening Extravaganza: A Blend of Entertainment and Innovation
The first day of Aviation Day 2025 sets the stage with a vibrant evening program designed to engage visitors through sight, sound, and experience. As twilight descends, guests are treated to a captivating drone display combining storytelling elements with synchronized lights and melodies. Alongside this high-tech spectacle, traditional attractions such as food vendors and a beer garden provide ample opportunity for socializing and relaxation. For families, interactive exhibits cater specifically to younger audiences, ensuring enjoyment across generations.
This segment of the event highlights the perfect harmony between nostalgic charm and contemporary ingenuity. Starting at 5 PM on Friday, June 6, participants encounter various aircraft on static display alongside performances by Vinyl Escape, a band known for its eclectic musical repertoire. These carefully curated components work together seamlessly to create an immersive atmosphere where attendees can explore aviation artifacts up close while being entertained throughout the night. The combination of these elements ensures an unforgettable introduction to what lies ahead during the second day of festivities.
Morning Adventures: Soaring Through Time
Saturday morning ushers in a new dimension of excitement as Aviation Day transitions from evening revelry to daytime adventures. Kicking things off is a hearty pancake breakfast, providing fuel for the day’s exhilarating activities. Attendees then have the rare privilege of boarding iconic flying machines like the Huey helicopter, T-6 Texan, and Stearman biplane for memorable rides above the skies of Columbus. Each aircraft represents different eras in aviation history, offering passengers unique perspectives on how far flight technology has evolved over decades.
These aerial excursions serve as more than just thrilling experiences; they act as living lessons showcasing advancements within the field of aviation. Following these flights, the attention shifts toward automobiles with the “Yesterday and Tomorrow” car exhibition. Here, classic pre-1965 models stand proudly beside their modern counterparts powered by alternative fuels. This juxtaposition underscores themes central to the event—honoring past achievements while celebrating present innovations and future possibilities. Together, these components form a comprehensive narrative about transportation evolution accessible to all who attend.