EAA AirVenture 2025: Ultimate Family Guide

Nathan Hammond of GhostWriter Airshows will perform at EAA

The world's greatest aviation celebration returns to Oshkosh, Wisconsin this July with free admission for all youth 18 and under—making this the perfect time for families to experience aviation history, cutting-edge technology, and inspiring performances at EAA AirVenture 2025.

This year's theme, "One Week: Endless Possibilities," captures the magic awaiting families at this extraordinary week-long event where children can touch the future of flight while exploring aviation's legendary past.

EAA AirVenture transforms Wittman Regional Airport into the world's busiest airport for one week, hosting over 600,000 visitors from 80+ countries who come to witness 10,000+ aircraft, 800+ exhibitors, and world-class air shows. The event's commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviators shines through its $7 million Youth Education Center, 25-year-old KidVenture program, and partnerships with aerospace giants like Boeing, NASA, and United Airlines. For families, this isn't just an air show—it's an immersive educational experience that could spark a lifelong passion for aviation in your children.

Schedule and location

EAA AirVenture 2025 runs Monday, July 21 through Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Gates open at 7:00 AM daily, with air shows beginning at 2:15 PM Monday through Saturday and 1:00 PM on Sunday. The event features nine air shows over seven days, including spectacular night shows on Wednesday and Saturday complete with fireworks and pyrotechnics.

This year marks the 72nd annual convention, celebrating the evolution from a small 1953 gathering of 150 aviation enthusiasts into the world's largest aviation event. The 2025 edition promises special commemorations including the 80th anniversary of WWII's end and unique vintage aircraft displays featuring rare 1900s-1910s replica aircraft like the Santos-Dumont Demoiselle and Bleriot XI.

What's new in 2025

Several exciting new features await families at AirVenture 2025. The Pioneer Aviation Display showcases three extraordinary replica aircraft from aviation's earliest days, offering children a chance to see how flight began. The free youth admission program, supported by Boeing, removes financial barriers for families wanting to introduce their children to aviation.

The event's educational programming has expanded with new Kids Story Time sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 AM, and enhanced interactive exhibits throughout the Youth Education Center. The Express Arrival program allows families to receive admission wristbands, parking passes, and camping credentials by mail when purchased before June 15, eliminating long entry lines.

Adventure awaits young aviators

The heart of AirVenture's family experience lies in its exceptional youth programming, designed to inspire and educate children of all ages. KidVenture, celebrating its 25th anniversary, operates Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 3:30 PM and Sunday from 9 AM to 2 PM at Pioneer Airport. This hands-on wonderland offers children the chance to build aircraft components, operate flight simulators, and climb through life-size Mercury and Gemini space capsules.

The AeroEducate Center targets middle and high school students with daily forums featuring young aviation professionals, hands-on RC airplane building workshops, and career pathway guidance. Located at Aviation Gateway Park, it operates daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, connecting teenagers with industry leaders from United Airlines, NASA, and the Air National Guard.

NASA's STEM Zone brings space exploration to life for ages 5-17, featuring hands-on demonstrations of the X-59 supersonic aircraft, Artemis moon missions, and sustainable flight technology. Children can launch paper airplanes with remote-controlled robots, play robot soccer games that simulate planetary rover operations, and participate in the Flight Log program.

For younger children, the Youth Welcome Center at Four Corners intersection provides a perfect starting point with its F-16 Fighting Falcon cockpit photo opportunities, keychain riveting activities, and youth-focused maps. The Charles W. Harris Youth Aviation Center in the Vintage Aircraft area offers hands-on tool experience for ages 8-12, plus special Teen Night events for 13-18 year olds.

Learning through hands-on discovery

EAA AirVenture 2025 transforms education into adventure through immersive STEM programming. The Youth Education Center, a 15,000-square-foot facility, features project labs where children can participate in facilitated aircraft builds, maker spaces for aviation-inspired projects, and interactive exhibits covering wing construction, propeller shaping, riveting, and welding.

The center's F-22 Raptor Gallery contains 16 interactive exhibits surrounding a climbable half-scale F-22 model, allowing children to experience fighter jet technology firsthand. Throughout the week, CTE/STEM Education Classes for 6th-12th graders explore aerodynamics, aviation weather, and instrument flying through engaging presentations like "What Makes an Airplane Fly?" and "Stalls - The Wing is the Thing."

The Young Eagles program offers free introductory flights for ages 8-17, continuing its mission that has served over 2.5 million youth since 1992. Young Eagles Workshops provide aviation day-camp experiences combining classroom learning with hands-on projects, available in one-day or multi-day formats.

Spectacular performances and legendary aircraft

The daily air shows showcase the world's finest aviation performers and historic aircraft. Military demonstrations feature the F-22 Raptor, F-35B Lightning II, and U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team, while world-class aerobatic performers include Nathan Hammond's pyrotechnic-equipped "GhostWriter" Super Chipmunk and Matt Younkin's illuminated Twin Beech 18 for night shows.

Special themed days enhance the experience: Tuesday's Innovations Day features BETA Technologies and drone demonstrations, Wednesday commemorates WWII's end with a parade of vintage warbirds, and Friday salutes veterans with Wisconsin National Guard aircraft displays.

The Vintage Aircraft Association area spans 1.5 miles with 400-500 historic military aircraft from WWI through Vietnam, organized into 12 distinct zones. Free Warbird Tram Tours provide narrated 30-minute rides Monday through Saturday, while Warbirds in Review presentations feature veterans sharing stories about the aircraft they flew.

Planning your family adventure

Ticket prices for 2025 offer exceptional value with children 18 and under receiving free admission. Adults pay $49 for members or $68 for non-members daily, with weekly passes available for $158 to members only. EAA membership ($40-50) pays for itself when attending multiple days and provides additional benefits including discounts on food and merchandise.

Parking costs $18 with advance purchase or $25 on-site (cash only), with shuttles providing transportation from parking areas to admission gates. The new Purple Auto Parking Lot offers 4,400 spaces with dedicated shuttle service.

Accommodations require early booking, as hotels fill months in advance. Camp Scholler provides the most affordable option at $39 per night for on-site camping with 20x30 foot sites, requiring a 3-night minimum. University housing options include UW-Oshkosh ($99 double rooms) and Ripon College ($79 single rooms), while family-friendly hotels like Holiday Inn Express and TownePlace Suites offer comfort near the grounds.

Essential family survival guide

Weather preparation is crucial for July in Wisconsin, with average highs of 81°F and lows of 61-63°F. Pack comfortable walking shoes, lightweight breathable clothing, rain gear, and sun protection including hats, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Bring hearing protection for air shows and loud aircraft—especially important for children.

Navigation across the 1,500-acre grounds requires planning. Download the EAA AirVenture app for maps, schedules, and real-time updates. Use the free tram and bus system for long-distance travel, and note that traffic patterns change from counterclockwise to clockwise at 5 PM daily.

Food services include 40+ outlets throughout the grounds, with options ranging from Wisconsin bratwurst to international cuisine. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, which many families find helpful given the premium pricing. Water refill stations are available throughout the grounds.

Keeping families safe and comfortable

Child safety measures include the comprehensive EAA Youth Protection Policy with two-deep leadership, background checks for all youth volunteers, and clear emergency procedures. Dress children in bright, unique clothing for easy identification, and equip them with temporary ID showing your contact information.

Emergency services include on-site medical stations, 24/7 security dispatch (920-230-7754), and well-defined emergency procedures. The grounds feature multiple family-friendly facilities including restrooms, changing stations, charging stations, and the Youth Welcome Center with shade and rest areas.

Crowd management strategies include arriving early for better parking and seating, avoiding peak times during air shows (12:30-4:30 PM), and establishing meeting points at recognizable locations. Stay together and designate someone to watch children at all times in the large crowds.

Smart budgeting for aviation families

Beyond free youth admission, several strategies help families maximize their AirVenture experience affordably. EAA membership provides the lowest ticket rates and member discounts on food. Advance ticket purchases save money compared to gate prices, while camping at Camp Scholler offers the most economical accommodation option.

Bring your own food and drinks to avoid inflated concession prices, and pack snacks for energy throughout long days. Free activities include air shows, youth programming, and many forums, while free promotional items are available early in the week from various exhibitors.

Shared accommodations allow families to split costs, whether camping together or sharing hotel rooms. Military discounts are available for active duty and veterans, and weekend packages can provide 16%+ savings on combined camping and admission.

Age-appropriate adventures for every child

Toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5) enjoy the NASA STEM Zone's basic activities, space capsule climbing at KidVenture, interactive displays at the Youth Welcome Center, and air show viewing with family. The EAA Aviation Museum provides indoor activities during hot weather.

Elementary age children (ages 6-11) can participate fully in KidVenture activities, explore all NASA STEM Zone offerings, visit the Youth Education Center exhibits, and try beginning RC flying with supervision. The Charles W. Harris Youth Aviation Center offers perfect hands-on tool experiences.

Middle school students (ages 12-14) benefit from AeroEducate Center activities, advanced KidVenture programs, Teen Night events, and more complex building projects. They can explore career pathways and participate in STEM education classes.

High school students (ages 15-18) gain full access to AeroEducate Center programming, advanced workshops and forums, Young Eagles flight opportunities, and industry professional networking. They can participate in the most sophisticated flight simulator experiences and career exploration programs.

EAA AirVenture 2025 represents an unparalleled opportunity for families to explore aviation's past, present, and future together. With free admission for youth, world-class educational programming, and spectacular entertainment, this week-long celebration offers something meaningful for every age group. The combination of hands-on learning, inspiring performances, and immersive experiences creates memories that can spark lifelong passions for aviation and STEM fields.

The event's commitment to family accessibility, safety, and education makes it more than just an air show—it's a gateway to the endless possibilities that await young minds ready to reach for the sky. Whether your children dream of becoming pilots, engineers, or simply want to experience the wonder of flight, EAA AirVenture 2025 provides the perfect launching pad for their aviation journey.