Deke Slayton Airfest 

June 15 - June 16, 2024

Saturday, June 15, 2024

Gates Open: 9:00AM

Air Show: 12:00PM

Sunday, June 16, 2024

Gates Open: 9:00AM

Air Show: 12:00PM

Tickets

Are Tickets only available for purchase online?

Yes -- Tickets are only available for sale online at www.airfest.com

May I exchange my ticket for a different day or for a different kind of ticket?

NO – General Admission and VIP Tickets CANNOT be exchanged for a different day or different ticket.

NO REFUNDS. NO EXCHANGES. SHOW IS RAIN OR SHINE. ACTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

What is the last day to purchase on-line tickets?

Tickets will be sold online until end of show Sunday, June 16, 2024.

May we leave the grounds and then be readmitted?

No, for security reasons you cannot enter the grounds again without purchasing another ticket (online only).

Are there parking charges?

Parking is FREE with the purchase of a ticket.

Is there parking on site?

Yes, onsite parking is included with the purchase of ticket. We suggest you consider carpooling and arrive early. Please follow directional signs, traffic officers and volunteers towards the parking area. We appreciate everyone’s patience during the parking process as we are parking thousands of vehicle in just a few hours. Prepare to walk -- wear comfortable shoes.

Are there park and ride lots or a shuttle service? 

There are no park and ride lots or shuttle service.

I don't have a printer. How can I show my tickets?

You can show your tickets on your mobile device. Each ticket can only be scanned once.

I ordered tickets but did not receive a confirmation email. What do I do?

Confirmation emails are sent immediately upon completion of the transaction. If you have spam blocking or require senders to seek approval, you may not receive it. Please check the spam or junk mail folders before contacting Attendstar. The confirmation email will be sent from tickets@attendstar.com. 

How do I reprint my Print-at-Home ticket?

You will find a "Print all your tickets" link in the order confirmation email sent to you when you completed your transaction. Open that link and you can print ticket(s).

Are there special discounts for tickets to charitable organizations or large groups? 

Please email info@airfest.com for more information.

Schedule

When may I enter the grounds?

Gates open at 9 AM. Airshow gate times are 9:00 - 5:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday, with the airshow starting at approximately Noon each day.

Is the show schedule the same for both days?

Yes, the same performers are scheduled to perform both Saturday and Sunday (except for any fly-by’s). Performance schedules are subject to change at any time, without notice.

Is there a schedule for performers?

No, due to the potential for last minute adjustments to flying schedules based on weather, security protocols or other reasons, we are unable to provide any individual performers start times. On Saturday and Sunday, Opening Ceremonies start at approximately 12:00 PM each day with the air show immediately following. All acts are subject to change at any time. A list of performers scheduled to appear will be available on our website (not in order of performance.)

Can I bring lawn chairs to the Airfest?

Yes lawn chairs are permitted on airshow grounds. You are responsible for your own chair at all times.

Can I bring an umbrella or tent onto the grounds?

In the general open field spectator area, YES, Handheld umbrellas are permitted. Large beach umbrellas or umbrellas placed in the ground are NOT PERMITTED nor are any other tent or awning structures.

Is there food/beverages available on the grounds?

Yes, there will be a variety of food and beverage locations.

Will any of the performers be available for autographs and if so when?

We do not currently have an autograph venue however many of the performers will sign at the fence line when schedules permit throughout the weekend.

What will I miss if I'm watching the air show from off the show grounds? 

You can see the airplanes flying from many locations in La Crosse but a large percentage of the airshow is on the grounds. The static aircraft displays give you the opportunity to get close to view the airplanes. Inflatables for the kids. Interactive flight simulators, exhibitors just to name a few attractions on the grounds. Many of the performers plan their maneuvers close to the ground in front of the spectators that makes an incredible show. Bottom line...you're missing the air show if not on the grounds! In order to host the show each year, we need the community’s support by attending the show on the grounds. By coming through the gates, you help to ensure the success of future shows. Please consider making a donation if you do not come to the grounds.

Can I bring my dog / pet?

Pets Are NOT allowed on the grounds.

Can I bring food and drinks in the grounds?

Food and drinks are Not permitted. A wide variety of food and drinks are available on the grounds.

How loud are the planes... should I wear any type of hearing protection? Is hearing protection provided?

The airplanes are loud... spectators have felt more comfortable wearing hearing protection at previous air shows. Bringing hearing protection would certainly be smart especially for the children.

What if my car breaks down on the grounds?

A wrecker is available on the grounds at the owner's expense.

I want to buy Blue Angel / Airfest memorabilia... How / Where?

A wide variety of official memorabilia will be available on the grounds.

What if the weather is bad?

Ticket is Non-Refundable. NO REFUND and NO EXCHANGE for Bad Weather. Airshow is Rain or Shine and Acts are subject to change without notice.

What happens if there is inclement weather?

The Air Show HAPPENS rain or shine. It takes more than a few raindrops to stop the Air Show. Performers have high, low and flat routines to fit different weather conditions. Also, schedules will be shifted and/or delayed for periods to avoid heavy rainfall. In addition, display aircraft, exhibits and food locations typically remain open regardless of weather conditions. We monitor the weather very closely. In the event of inclement weather at any point during the event, the announcer will direct guests how to safely exit as there are no shelters in place on the Air Show grounds. Unless the weather is severe, we will fly as much of the show as is safe and possible. Due to FAA permit restrictions and performer commitments, it is not possible to reschedule the airshow for another weekend.  Please be aware that tickets are non-refundable or exchangeable and are not valid on another day. Customers should make their purchases with this in mind.

What are the general guidelines for attending the show?

All spectators and items brought on the grounds are Subject to Search. Please don't bring unnecessary bags to the show. BUT, do not forget your camera!

• Leave home early
• Carpool
• Prepare to be in the sun -- Wear sunscreen, sun glasses and a hat.
• Prepare to walk -- wear comfortable shoes, you'll have a lot of ground to cover.
• Come both days if you want to see it all.
• No food, beverages or coolers (unless used for baby supplies).
• Airshow Grounds are Non-Smoking.
• Absolutely No Pets.
• No drones, bikes, skateboards, inline skates or scooters.
• Pay Attention to where you are going -- don't be watching the airshow while driving or walking.
• Don't touch any aircraft and never climb on the planes.
• Don't cross ropes or fence that is intended to control the crowd.
• Put all trash in its proper place.
• Plan a family rendezvous place -- before you get separated.

Can I bring a stroller, diaper bag or supplies for my infant or young children on to the airshow grounds?

Absolutely! Please bring the necessary items your children will require for an afternoon outdoors at an airshow with limited facilities. However, do not be offended when Airfest security or military personnel ask to see inside any items you are carrying in. This is being done for your safety.

May we camp overnight on the air show grounds?

No, camping is not permitted on airport grounds.

Can we bring an RV?

No, RV parking is not available on site.

Can we ride motorcycles to the event?

Yes, but beware that the Airfest Venue is a large temporary area created specifically for the airshow. The parking area is large, open, grassy fields. Much of the ground is uneven and sandy. Please plan accordingly. There is NO special parking area for motorcycles at the event.

Accessibility

We strongly advise you to bring a wheelchair and someone to assist you if you have trouble walking long distances. The Air Show grounds are extensive, and mostly uneven and unpaved. This area allows accommodation of spectators and display aircraft in a large festival atmosphere. Due to spectator congestion and the number of aircraft and displays, a patron shuttle service is not available inside the spectator area.

Are there handicap bathrooms?

Handicapped toilets are available and are typically found at the ends of large “banks” of portable toilets.

Are scooters or wheelchairs available for rent?

Airfest DOES NOT have scooters or wheelchairs available for rent. If you have difficulty walking long distances, please bring your own wheelchair.

Is there shuttle service to the Spectator Area?

We do NOT have shuttle service into the Spectator Area. If you have difficulty walking long distances, please bring your own wheelchair and someone to assist you.

General Questions

PROHIBITED ITEMS

• No balloons
• No portable awnings, tents, canopies, large beach umbrellas or umbrellas placed in the ground
• No alcoholic beverages
• No smoking
• No pets
• No bicycles
• No weapons of any kind (including concealed carry permit holders)
• Nothing that resembles a weapon of any kind
• No flammable items or fireworks
• No skateboards, hoverboards or Segway’s
• No scooters (except for physically challenged persons)
• No in-line skates
• No outside food or drinks* - Each guest will be allowed to bring in ONE SEALED bottle of water under a liter in size. A fill water station will be available on the event grounds.
• No coolers*
• No loose ice
• No glass
• No drones
• No overnight camping allowed

*All bags are subject to search at entry gate*

Are credit cards accepted at concessions?

Food truck vendors may accept credit cards however we can not guarantee wi-fi services will not be interrupted with large number of patrons on the grounds. Cash is Best. Soda and beer tent are Cash Only. Cash is best!

Is there an ATM onsite?

Yes. Please be aware that some vendors only accept cash.

How do I request media credentials?

Media credentials are strictly provided to working media that provide their organization’s press credentials or an official assignment letter from an established media outlet. All requests will be reviewed for approval by Deke Slayton Airfest. Please request media credentials via email at info@airfest.com

Can I get involved?

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at info@airfest.com

How can non-profits get involved?

If you are a non-profit group that wants to earn money, please contact info@airfest.com

How can companies get involved?

There are many ways for companies to get involved. Numerous sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available. Please contact info@airfest.com.

Can we fly-in to the event?

Yes, Tickets must be purchased online and are required for all individuals attending. Please contact Colgan Air Services (local FBO) at 608-783-8359 to coordinate.

Are cameras and video recorders allowed?

Yes. Cameras/video recorders are permitted along with camera bags. Drones are Not Allowed.

Is there shade?

Not in General Public viewing areas. Guests are encouraged to plan for being out in the sun and weather and should wear a hat as well as plenty of sunscreen.

Are pets allowed?

No. No pets are allowed on the air show grounds or left in cars inside the air show parking areas.

Can we bring a wagon?

Yes, wagons are permitted. The contents of the wagon are subject to be searched.

ABOUT US

The Mission of Deke Slayton Airfest (referenced below as Airfest) is to promote aviation awareness and education in our local market. Airfest is a family orientated aviation event that showcases military and civilian performers for the young and old to enjoy. 

Airfest has no paid staff and is made up of a 100% volunteer base which includes: Executive Committee, Board of Directors, Advisory Committee and many many volunteers in the community that come together in June to provide this family oriented and educational event. 

Airfest is a 501(c)(4) not-for-profit corporation governed by volunteers. Airfest is a financially self- sufficient nonprofit organization that relies on corporate sponsorships, ticket sales, donations and community support to offset the production costs of the event. 

It is necessary for Airfest to charge admission in order to offset the substantial costs associated with producing the event, including support services for all personnel and aircraft that participate in the event. Donations received by Airfest are used to produce the event. Please note that the production on airshow days is implemented by approximately 1,000 volunteers who contribute their time and energy to ensure success of the airshow. 

Airfest has a positive impact in La Crosse and surrounding communities within the Coulee Region. 

On behalf of the Airfest Executive Committee and Board of Directors, we would like to thank all of our sponsors, vendors, dedicated volunteers and fans for the continued support and patronage. It is their efforts and community involvement that keeps the air show flying.

Thank you for supporting Airfest!