Thunder Over Louisville 2026

Thunder Photos

                           This was my second Thunder Over Louisville. I went to Friday’s practice when it was sunny and eighty degrees. I got some great shots of the practice flights. I am glad I went because Saturday’s weather was not great. Wind and rain off and on with some cool air. You can never blame an airshow for the weather. My day started at 3 AM when I walked from my hotel to the riverfront. To my amazement, there was no sign of anyone, and the gate was open.  I walked down to the shoreline and claimed my spot; others followed soon after.

                            Despite the weather, I thought the show was great.  The lineup was also great.  A couple of F-35s from the Wisconsin ANG and two F-15s from the 159^th Fighter Wing, also known as the “Bayou Militia.”  Greg Colyer put on a magnificent display of flying in his T-33. Matt Younkin smoked up the sky over the Ohio River in his red and black Beech 18. Major Taylor Hiester brought the afterburner thunder in his retro-painted F-16. One of my favorite displays of precision helicopter flying was the Blackhawks from B Co 2-147^th AVN.  Had some C-130s with flare drops. There were some smaller acts that were just as entertaining.

                                I did not stay for the fireworks; I saw some videos and photos of them, and I wish I had. The food court was set up under the highway and out of the weather. The price of the food is comparable to that of any other event like this. I will say I had some very good chicken strips. This is a kid-friendly event that does have a carnival area behind the Great Lawn. If you have never been, give it a try. I know I will be there every year.