SUN 'n FUN 2026 Aerospace Expo Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Table of Contents

• Event Details & Cashless Policy
• Tickets & Admission Prices
• Daily Schedule & Airshow Highlights
• Camping at SUN 'n FUN
• Flying In: Pilot Information & NOTAM
• Driving & Parking
• Packing List & Event Rules
• Merchandise & FAQs

Event Details

• What: 52nd Annual SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo
• When: April 14–19, 2026
• Where: SUN 'n FUN Expo Campus at Lakeland Linder International Airport, 4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland, FL 33811
• Hours: Parking opens at 7:00 AM; Admission gates open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
• NEW: Cashless Policy: All on-site vendors, parking, and admissions are now 100% cashless.

For the most up-to-date event information, visit the official SUN 'n FUN website.

Tickets & Admission

SUN 'n FUN 2026 tickets are best purchased online to avoid higher "at the gate" credit card pricing.

2026 Ticket Prices (Online)

• Adults (18+): $50 per day or $180 for a full week pass
• Youth (ages 13–17): $20 per day or $70 for a week pass
• Children (12 and under): Free (wristband still required, available at registration)

Special Discounts & Upgrades

• Florida Residents: Weekend special ($50 for Sat/Sun combo) or Sunday-only ($35).
• Military: $45 daily / $150 weekly for active and retired U.S. military.
• 9/27 Club VIP: Upgrades range from $185 to $250 per day (includes hospitality and prime viewing).
• Preferred Airshow Seating: Approximately $35 per day (general admission not included).

Daily Schedule & Highlights

The 2026 schedule features a brand-new Wednesday format designed to give attendees more time with exhibitors.

• USAF Thunderbirds: The headline act for 2026, performing Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (April 17–19).
• NEW Wednesday "Composite" Airshow: On April 15, the traditional day/night split is replaced by a single show from 5:00 PM to 9:15 PM, featuring twilight aerobatics and fireworks.
• Opening Day Concert: Tuesday, April 14 at 6:00 PM featuring Cooper Alan with special guest Thomas Mac (included with Tuesday admission).
• Saturday Night Airshow: The grand finale night show and fireworks remain on Saturday, April 18, from 7:00 PM to 9:15 PM.
• Military Demos: Including the F-22 Raptor Demo Team, F-18 Rhino Demo Team, and C-17 Globemaster III.

Camping at SUN 'n FUN

On-site camping remains the best way to experience the "Spring Break for Pilots."

• New Feature: "Rocky Road" Premium Camping now offers electric and water hookups.
• Rates: Weekly camping packages (including admission) start at $318. Daily dry camping is available on-site for $42/night.
• Important Dates: Campground opens March 20, 2026. General camper registration opens April 7, 2026.
• Entrance: Use the camper-specific entrance at 4238 Hamilton Rd, Lakeland, FL.

Flying In: Pilot Information & NOTAM

The 2026 NOTAM is essential for all pilots. Note that airport closures for airshows have changed due to the new Wednesday schedule. View Notam Here: https://flysnf.org/flying-in/notams/

• NOTAM Dates: Procedures are in effect April 13–19, 2026.
• Wednesday Window: The arrival/departure window is extended on Wednesday until 5:00 PM.
• Windshield Signs: Pilots MUST display a sign on the left side of the windshield (e.g., "GAC" for Camping, "GAP" for Parking) to assist ground crews.
• Frequencies: Monitor ATIS on 118.025. For real-time updates, text "PILOT" to 863-375-8862.

Driving & Parking

• Parking Fees: $12 per day (Online) / $20 per day (At the gate - Credit Only).
• Weekly Parking: $60 (Online) / $80 (At the gate).
• Entrances: Main Parking is off Pipkin Road; East Parking is off Old Medulla Road.
• Shuttle: Free intra-campus trams run daily from 8:00 AM until the conclusion of the airshows.

Packing List & Event Rules

With the F-22 and Thunderbirds performing, ear protection is more important than ever this year.

Clothing & Gear

• Lightweight, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes (you will walk several miles).
• High-SPF sunscreen and a refillable water bottle.
• Cashless payment method (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Credit/Debit cards).

Prohibited Items

• Drones (Strictly prohibited in the entire KLAL airspace).
• Pets (Service animals only).
• Large coolers for day-trip guests.
• Outside alcohol.

SUN 'n FUN 2026 Merchandise

Commemorate the 52nd Expo with exclusive "Red, White & Blue" branded gear. You can find official merchandise at three on-site locations: Leenhouts Way, the Sunset Grill, and Warbird Country. Online shopping is available at the PilotMall SUN 'n FUN Collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• When is SUN 'n FUN 2026? April 14–19, 2026.
• Who are the 2026 headliners? The USAF Thunderbirds.
• Is the Wednesday night show different? Yes, it is now a "Composite Show" starting at 5:00 PM, combining day and night elements.
• Can I use cash at the food courts? No, all vendors are cashless for 2026.
• Is the concert included? Yes, the Cooper Alan concert on Tuesday is included with your admission wristband.

Secure your tickets early, study the NOTAM, and prepare for an incredible week at SUN 'n FUN 2026. For daily schedule changes during the event, visit the official SUN 'n FUN website.