Organizers say anticipation is building as Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake prepares to host the 2026 Cold Lake Air Show, promising a mix of high-profile aerial acts and ground attractions.
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Rob Larson, director of administration for the event, said the return of the air show brings a level of excitement that extends beyond the base and into the surrounding community.
“The energy that it builds not only on the base but within the community and region is something that is hard to describe,” he said.
This year’s show will feature a range of military and civilian performers, including the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team — appearing at one of only two Canadian locations in 2026 — as well as the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the SkyHawks parachute team and the CF-18 Tactical Demonstration.
Civilian performers are also slated to take part, including a P-38 Lightning, a Harvard Mark IV, a T-33 jet and a twin-engine sailplane, with more acts expected to be announced.
In addition to the aerial displays, Larson said attendees can expect one of the largest static aircraft displays in North America, along with a Canadian Armed Forces experience area, a large car show marking the 130th anniversary of the truck, a family zone and more than two dozen food trucks.
A highlight for many aviation enthusiasts will be the return of the B-52 Stratofortress.
“We’re always excited to host the legendary BUFF,” Larson said, noting the aircraft’s more than 70 years of service and its continued ability to draw crowds.
The Cold Lake Air Show traces its roots back to the late 1950s, when the base was known as RCAF Station Cold Lake. Although the event was held inconsistently for decades, it has been staged every two years since 2016, aside from a cancellation in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2024, the show received international recognition, becoming the first Canadian recipient in 27 years of the International Council of Air Shows’ Dick Schram Memorial Community Relations Award, which honours collaboration between military air shows and their communities.
Gates for the 2026 event will open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with flying demonstrations scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. each day. Organizers say visitors should plan to arrive early to take in the full experience.
“The most common regret we get from air show attendees is that they didn’t come earlier in the day,” Larson said.
The performance schedule is expected to be the same on both days, though changes may occur due to weather or mechanical factors.
Larson said beyond entertainment, the air show serves a broader purpose.
“The main reason for hosting air shows is to showcase the excellence of the Canadian Armed Forces to the public,” he said, adding the event gives visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at operations at Canada’s largest fighter base.
Organizers are also encouraging visitors to make a weekend of the event, noting additional activities are planned throughout the community beginning Friday evening.
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