As the calendar flips to April, aviation enthusiasts of all ages are gearing up for a week at the second largest airshow in the United States. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo 2025 is set to kick off on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida.
The annual Florida Airshow and Fly-In, now in its 51st year, promises a top-notch lineup of some of the world’s best pilots and planes, featuring daily flight demonstrations. Educational opportunities, and family-friendly activities abound, cementing the event’s reputation as “Spring Break for Pilots” and Aviation’s Season Opener.
Held at the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus at Lakeland Linder International Airport, the six-day extravaganza runs from April 1st through Sunday, April 6,and is expected to draw over 200,000 visitors from across the nation and beyond. The event offers something for everyone—from seasoned pilots to wide-eyed kids dreaming of flight.
The festivities launch with a bang on opening night, featuring a concert headlined by country music star Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line fame, alongside Uncle Kracker, on the Warbird Ramp. Included with daily admission, this musical kickoff sets the tone for a week of high-flying excitement. Daily airshows from Tuesday through Sunday, running from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, will showcase breathtaking performances by military and civilian aviators, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, who will take to the skies on April 5 and 6. Other military demo favorites, the F35 Lightning II and F-16 demonstration teams will perform daily.
For those who prefer their aviation after dark, Wednesday and Saturday feature night airshows complete with fireworks, promising a spectacle that lights up the Florida sky. Beyond the aerobatics, the event features over 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest in aviation technology, ranging from cutting-edge aircraft to innovative gear, alongside hands-on workshops where attendees can hone their skills in building and maintenance. This year’s air show schedule can be found on the Sun’ N’ Fun website.
There’s plenty to see and do beyond the flightline. Visitors can wander through acres of aircraft displays, featuring everything from vintage warbirds to sleek jets and homebuilt planes, offering a tangible connection to aviation’s past and future. Sun N’ Fun is more than just another Florida airshow. For the younger crowd, the Family Fun Zone and Junior ACEs open house provide interactive STEM and aerospace experiences, sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of aviators. A Saturday morning hot air balloon launch adds a whimsical touch, while the STOL Invitational at Paradise City’s grass strip on select evenings showcases the precision and daring of short takeoff and landing pilots. Whether you’re an aspiring aviator or just love the roar of engines, the expo’s diverse offerings ensure no one leaves disappointed…