Arctic Thunder to take wing June 30, July 1

Arctic Thunder Open House, Alaska’s premier two day air show and open house, is June 30 to July 1.

All aviation and military enthusiasts from across the Last Frontier are invited to the free event for some high-flying action at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

In previous years, more than 250,000 people have attended the open house and experienced a seemingly neverending series of static displays – both military and civilian – across a 30-acre field.

“Our theme this year is ‘Shared Heritage,’” said Air Force Maj. Jeri-Lynn Harper, Arctic Thunder Open house director. “We chose the theme because it encompasses the joint aspect of JBER – not just military, but also the local community. We are afforded a lot of opportunities in Alaska, and we get a lot of support from the local community. The open house is our way of saying thank you.”

Hangars full of family fun await, with face-painting, bouncy houses and an obstacle course.

Hear the sounds of freedom as demonstration teams for the F-22 Raptor, U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier, F-16 Viper and C-17 Globemaster III perform impressive displays of aerial acrobatics. But the nonstop action won’t end there – the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are this year’s headliners and are sure to put on an impressive performance.

The show is not just in the air. Experience the awesome skills of the joint forces demonstration team as paratroopers perform a mock assault on the demonstration field.

New this year will be the addition of Science Technology Engineering and Math demonstrations, said Dana Rosso, JBER Public Affairs chief of community engagement.

Two hangars will be devoted to STEM, where kids of all ages will have the opportunity to speak with military professionals and interact with robotic equipment, Rosso said.

“This event doesn’t happen every year,” Harper said. “It’s the public’s time to see what we do at JBER; to see how we support and defend our nation, and how we use the resources they invest in.”

For more information, and for schedule and updates, visit arcticthunderopenhouse.com and jber.jb.mil.