Historic Bowman Field’s Festival Celebrates Military Heritage
Two-day event features vintage aircrafts, aerobatic air show, military displays, a 5k run/walk and more
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Sept. 29, 2025) – BowmanFest is back for 2025, bigger and better than ever, with an expanded program that now includes a thrilling aerobatic air show. Created to foster excitement in aviation, celebrate historic Bowman field and recognize our military heritage, BowmanFest will take place on October 4-5, 2025.
Established in 1920, Bowman Field is one of the oldest continually operating commercial airports in North America. Located on 426 acres adjacent to Seneca Park, Bowman Field features three buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The event kicks off with the IPA 5K on the Runway run/walk at Bowman Field on Saturday morning. BowmanFest is proudly presented by the Bowman Field Foundation.
The two-day event brings together aviation history, community fun, and family-friendly entertainment featuring rare vintage aircraft from the 1920’s to the present from across the United States, including military vehicles, motorcycles, equipment and more.
BowmanFest is excited to welcome back their CAT3 aerobatic airshow which will run twice daily featuring top local and regional performers. This year’s event will feature over 40 planes on display. Opportunities for attendees to purchase rides will be available in select planes and helicopters.
Past highlights have included the C-130 Hercules, P-51 Mustang, RV-8, B-25 Bomber, Yak-23, Boeing-Stearman, AT-6 Wolverine, and WACO Biplane. Additionally, there will be numerous activities to enjoy, learn and appreciate aviation history from local aviation and military veterans’ groups. *Planes and show equipment subject to change.
The festival will also offer local food trucks, multiple bars and family fun for all. The event runs from 10am-5pm on both Saturday and Sunday, October 4th and 5th.
Admission:
$50 per family of four
$20 per adult
$15 for seniors and children ages 6-15
Children 5 and under are free
Veterans and active military are free with ID
Kicking off the weekend on Saturday, October 4th is the IPA 5K on the Runway at Bowman Field. One of Louisville’s most exciting races, this 5K takes place on a fast, flat course that is almost entirely on the airfield. Runners will receive a commemorative medal, race shirt, beverage, and same-day admission to BowmanFest with their registration. The cost is $30 for adults, $18 for kids under 15. There is also a free kids dash just before the race. The race will begin at 9:00am. Price increases on September 1, 2025.
Proceeds benefit the Bowman Field Foundation and the Kosair for Kids Pediatric NeuroRecovery Fund. In 2024, IPA’s Reach for Kids donated more than $44,000 to the fund, contributing to a total of over $800,000 raised for local children’s charities since 1998.
“We’re thrilled to welcome BowmanFest back to historic Bowman Field, where guests can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of our rich aviation and military history. This year’s expanded aerobatic show is something you won’t want to miss.”
– Pat MacDonald, BowmanFest Organizer, Bowman Field Foundation
Visit bowmanfest.com for more information
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