Branson’s biggest end-of-summer celebration is taking to the skies. Over Labor Day Weekend, September 5–7, 2026, the Branson Wings of Pride Air Show returns to the Branson Airport in Hollister, Missouri—and this year’s headliner makes it a can’t-miss trip.
Celebrate America’s 250th with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
2026 is a milestone year, and the Wings of Pride Air Show is celebrating in a big way with the world-famous U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
The Thunderbirds perform around the globe to showcase the pride, precision, and professionalism of the U.S. Air Force. Their demonstration features six aircraft flying a mix of tight formation and high-energy solo routines in the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
- The four-ship Diamond formation highlights the precision and grace of elite U.S. Air Force pilots.
- The two solo pilots bring the power—showcasing the maximum capabilities of the F-16 with thrilling passes and maneuvers.
If you’ve never seen the Thunderbirds live, this is the year to do it.
Featured performers you can see
The 2026 lineup is stacked with unforgettable moments from multiple branches of the U.S. military—plus world-class aerobatics.
USAF C-17 Globemaster III East Coast Demo Team
Known as the “workhorse of the Air Force,” the C-17 Globemaster III is one of the largest aircraft in the U.S. Air Force—yet it’s shockingly agile when flown by the East Coast Demonstration Team.
Expect a rare public demo that highlights real-world mission capability, including:
- Quick turns and precision maneuvers
- Tactical descents and low-level passes
- The crowd-favorite backwards taxi using thrust reversers
It’s a powerful, up-close look at the aircraft that delivers troops, vehicles, and humanitarian aid around the world at a moment’s notice.
U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team
The U.S. Army Golden Knights are the premier military parachute demonstration team in the world—and they bring some of the most exciting moments of the entire weekend.
Jumping from altitudes up to 12,500 feet, these elite paratroopers freefall at more than 120 mph before deploying their chutes and performing high-performance canopy formations, aerial choreography, and precision landings right in front of the crowd.
Often accompanied by smoke trails and flags, their performance is equal parts thrilling and patriotic.
Kirby Chambliss
A legend in aerobatics, Kirby Chambliss brings championship-level skill to the Branson skies.
Kirby soloed at 13, became the youngest commercial pilot at Southwest Airlines at 24, and later earned 13 world medals on the U.S. National Aerobatic Team. He also became a standout in the inaugural Red Bull Air Race—winning two World Championships.
His flying is known for precision, confidence, and jaw-dropping control.
Make it a Branson weekend
With the air show landing on Labor Day Weekend, it’s a perfect time to plan a full Branson getaway—shows, attractions, and plenty of family-friendly fun after the jets and parachutes touch down. Check out BransonShowTicketsDirect.com for all the best Branson live entertainment and direct access to the best seats!
Get tickets online
Ready to lock in your tickets for Branson’s biggest end-of-summer event?
Buy tickets online here: https://www.eventsprout.com/event/2026-bwop
Dates: September 5–7, 2026
Location: Branson Airport, Hollister, MO