Flight Fest connects Dayton Air Show pilots with fans this summer
VANDALIA, Ohio (WDTN) — The City of Vandalia and the Dayton Air Show are partnering together to bring air show performers right to the fans.
Flight Fest is a brand new event that will take place June 20 from 6 to 10 p.m., featuring a walk through parade, kids activities, a U.S. Air Force meet-and-great, shopping and even a flyover. The event was created by Vandalia leaders and the Dayton Air Show to add a new element to the iconic summer staple.
Organizers say Flight Fest will be more of a relaxed event compared to the thrilling action of the air show.
'The CenterPoint Energy Air Show and our Chamber of Commerce came to us, and we were excited to hear of this new idea they had of Flight Fest and so we partnered with them,' said Kurt Althouse, Vandalia city manager. 'We have a beautiful sports complex here at Stonequarry Road. And so after some discussion, we realized this would be a great venue to host.'
The goal of the event is to bring families out and get kids interested in the aviation field.'Our main mission is to try to get kids interested in aviation,' said Kevin Franklin, Dayton Air Show executive director. 'Being able to meet the mechanics, the pilots. They're all going to be out here and intermingle with the crowd. And it should be a great opportunity where — people are usually on the other side of the fence — they'll be able to come right up to them and talk to them.'
Organizers say Flight Fest won't break the bank for families, as its a completely free event. Althouse also says it's a good way for those who are looking into the military as a career.
'Most certainly they're going to be talking about the military opportunities,' said Althouse. 'So for those young people that may be looking at what their future holds, this is a great opportunity for them to come out and hear about what opportunities the military does provide.'The event will be capped off by a performance by the Lieutenant Dan Band, who run a non-profit to help veterans.
The event will be held at the Vandalia Sports Complex on Stonequarry Road. You can get your tickets for the event here.
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General admission parking: Take exit 64 on Northwoods Boulevard from Interstate 75. Follow signs to appropriate lots. Stay in the right lane. Be prepared to walk once you've parked. Tickets: Flight Fest When: 6-10 p.m. Friday. Where: Vandalia Recreation Center, 1111 Stonequarry Road. Tickets. Free at
