Hey Tucson! You're invited to Thunder and Lightning Over Arizona, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base's Annual Open House.
The 2023 Thunder and Lightning Over Arizona Air Show promises to be a weekend packed with heart-pounding air performances and family-friendly activities.
The free event will display the pride, precision, and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents and provide the community an opportunity to interact with the Airmen responsible for executing Davis-Monthan’s rescue and attack missions, supporting six combatant commanders around the globe every day.
Lt Erin Ranaweera explained, "This is an opportunity for the base to show our appreciation to the great Tucson community. We are opening the gates to D-M and giving you the chance to learn more about who we are and what we do while you enjoy fabulous aerial demonstrations."
Members of the United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform a high show demonstration in Reno, Nevada, September 19, 2021. Since the show site was separate from the takeoff site, no groundshow was conducted. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicolas Myers)
The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform during day one of the Cleveland National Air Show, September 4, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. This was a deployed show that involved the jets taking off from and landing at a different site from the air show. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicolas A. Myers)
Kents showing off once again for the crowd at the LA County Air Show
The 2023 open house will take place on March 25-26, 2023.
Thunder and Lightning Over Arizona is held at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Central Tucson.
The Craycroft and Swan Gates will be open for general public entry to the Open House.
A full schedule will not be posted due to possible delays and scheduling. Gates will open at 9:00am.
The 2023 Thunder & Lightning Over Arizona Air Show will feature performances by:
No documentation is required. This is a free event and the base will be open to the public throughout the weekend.
Although General Admission is FREE, a limited amount of platinum and premium seats are available for purchase while supplies last.
General Parking is FREE. Personal vehicles are allowed entry through general public access areas.
The Craycroft and Swan Gates will be open for general public entry to the Open House.
The Craycroft Gate is located at Craycroft Road and Golf Links Road. It will be open for inbound Open House traffic only, Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 2pm. The Craycroft Gate will be open for outbound traffic only, Saturday and Sunday from 3pm to 5pm.
The Swan Gate is located at Swan Road and Golf Links Road. It will be open for inbound (2 lanes) and outbound (1 lane) Open House traffic, Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 2pm. The Swan Gate will be open for outbound (3 lanes) Open House traffic only, Saturday and Sunday from 3pm until 5pm.
Personnel will be in place to direct traffic both days of the event.
Temperatures in this region in late March range from 47°F to 79°F, often with blue skies and lots of sun. The event is outdoors so good walking shoes and light layers are advisable. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats with visors would also come in handy.
There will be a small number of bleachers available on the flight line for seating. Pop-up chairs and umbrellas are not permitted, however there are sunshades on the flightline (normally shading the A-10s) that will provide more than enough shade for visitors. Chairs will be available for rent for $5 for the whole day.
Note that coolers, backpacks, large purses, camera bags, camelbacks, tents/canopies, walking sticks, drones, alcoholic beverages, and bicycles will not be permitted.
Porta-potties and hand-washing stations will be located throughout the flight line and in all visitor areas for easy access.
All pets are prohibited from the Thunder and Lightning over Arizona grounds. Service animals assisting physically challenged guests will be authorized.
Yes, there will be handicap parking and the flight line is completely wheelchair accessible.
Snacks in non-glass containers are permitted, but note that there will be numerous vendors with food for sale on the flight line throughout both days.
Standard fair/festival food will be available for purchase: burgers, hot dogs, gyros, pizza, churros, etc.
Our top picks within a 7-mile radius include:
Yes! There will be numerous static aircraft displays where kids can get up close and touch airplanes. In addition, various units on base will be showcasing their missions and their equipment [including the Explosive Ordinance Pyrotechnics unit]. There will also be bouncy castles and other activities in the Kid Zone for smaller children.
Yes. A stroller or wagon will likely be useful as you walk around the base with little ones.
Yes. DM recommends that you bring ear protection for yourself and your children.
No.
No.
The following hotels/resorts are within 30-35 minutes of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base:
Another terrific option is to find a vacation rental thru Tucson Vacation Rentals.
Yes! You can follow Thunder and Lightning Over Arizona on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Additionally, you can follow Davis-Monthan Air Force Base on Facebook and Twitter.
That just about covers it. Have a great time!
