BowmanFest's 10th anniversary Takes Flight Oct. 3-4

LOUISVILLE, KY (September 2, 2026) — Experience the sights, sounds and history of aviation during the 10th anniversary of BowmanFest, returning to historic Bowman Field on October 3-4, 2026.

Set against the backdrop of one of North America's oldest continually operating general aviation airports, the two-day festival combines aviation heritage, military history and family-friendly entertainment in a uniquely Louisville setting. The annual event draws aviation enthusiasts, families and history buffs for a weekend of aircraft displays, aerial performances, live music, food vendors and hands-on activities.

Established in 1920, Bowman Field occupies 426 acres adjacent to Seneca Park and features three buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The airport remains a treasured Louisville landmark and serves as the ideal setting for a festival dedicated to preserving and celebrating aviation history.

New for 2026, BowmanFest will feature a Saturday evening twilight concert by the popular band Juice Box Heroes and an appearance by U.S. Advanced Aerobatic Champion Britt Lincoln as part of the festival's expanded air show programming.

Festival highlights include:

- More than 40 aircraft on display, ranging from vintage planes to modern aviation favorites

- Twice-daily aerobatic air shows featuring regional and national performers

- Special guest aircraft, including the Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation's Spirit of Freedom C-54 transport, the Missouri Wing's B-25 bomber and Louisville favorite Flagship Detroit's Douglas DC-3

- Opportunities to purchase rides in select aircraft and helicopters

- Military vehicles, equipment and historical displays

- A vintage car show, motorcycles and aviation exhibits

- Live music and entertainment

- Local food vendors and refreshments

- Family-friendly activities and interactive experiences for children

The weekend begins Saturday morning with the popular IPA 5K on the Runway, one of Louisville's most distinctive races. Participants run a fast, flat course primarily on the airfield and receive festival admission with registration.

Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, October 3, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, October 4. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and children ages 6-15, $50 for a family of four, and free for children 5 and younger. Veterans, active-duty military personnel and first responders receive free admission. For more information, tickets and event updates, visit BowmanFest.

While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city’s top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attractions, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.