AIRFEST 2025; DEcATUR AL

The North Alabama Airfest at Pryor Field is an exciting, two-day aviation event that draws together flying enthusiasts, families, and anyone who loves a good thrill. Held at the Pryor Field Regional Airport (DCU), the Airfest showcases a wide range of aircraft, from vintage warbirds to modern military jets, along with breathtaking aerobatic performances and interactive displays. I was fortunate enough to be able to squeeze in a quick visit during the second day this year.

Why Attend?

There are many reasons why people love attending Airfest. It's the only civilian airshow in Alabama, making it a unique local event. It offers a chance to see world-renowned aerobatic performers, get up close to both historic and cutting-edge aircraft on static display, and even take part in helicopter or airplane rides. For those seeking even more speed, exotic car rides are available. The event is also a fantastic family-friendly outing, with a dedicated kid's zone, food vendors, and interactive STEM exhibits from NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, which helps inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.

For 2025, there was a large kids area with lots of inflatables, games, and activities. Note that these are all separate from the entrance fee, so keep that in mind if you have 2 or 3 kids. It could quickly get expensive if you’re trying to do all the things.

Itinerary of Events

While the precise schedule of performers can change, the Airfest generally runs from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday. The event features a packed lineup of aerial performances, including:

• Aerobatic Teams: Look for teams like the Titan Aerobatic Team and performances from skilled pilots like Skip Stewart and John Scherff.

• Military Displays: The show often features impressive military demonstrations, such as the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet and the Army Golden Knights parachute team.

• Historic Aircraft: You'll see historic planes like the DC-3, a classic warbird, and various mini jets.

Tips for Making the Most of the Event

To ensure your family has the best time, a little planning goes a long way. Bring chairs or a blanket to set up a comfortable spot on the field, as you'll be on your feet a lot. The sun can be intense, so be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Staying hydrated is key, so pack water bottles or plan to buy drinks from the many vendors. With all the excitement, it's easy to get separated, so establish a meeting point with your family in case you get lost. Arriving early will help you beat the biggest crowds and secure a good viewing spot.

Finally, I’d say if you’re really into doing this event, it’s probably worth the price to get VIP seating in the shaded tent area. It was 91 degrees and near full sun when we went and some may find that’s not super enjoyable all day.

2025 AIRFEST IMAGE GALLERY

Enjoy a few of my photos from the day.

Enjoy a few photos from the last time I visited Airfest in 2023