Wings Over Houston Airshow: A Soaring Celebration Worth the Drive

Though the Wings Over Houston Airshow doesn’t take place in Pasadena proper, its roar is a welcome echo across our community and for good reason. Held at Ellington Airport, this spectacular event is more than just a dazzling weekend in the sky. It also brings a powerful boost to local economies, including ours, as traveling attendees stay in nearby hotels, dine in our restaurants, and shop locally. We’re proud to support our neighbors in celebrating amazing events like this one.

A Legacy of Flight & Community

Organized by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), this event has been running for more than four decades. Now celebrating its 41st year, Wings Over Houston has earned a reputation as one of the premier aviation events in the nation. Dedicated volunteers from the CAF Houston Wing, Gulf Coast Wing, and the legendary Tora! Tora! Tora! team help bring history to life alongside partners such as the Lone Star Flight Museum, Collings Foundation, and the Vietnam War Flight Museum.

The show is best known for its breathtaking lineup of World War II warbirds alongside modern military aircraft, creating a living tribute to the men and women who served and continue to serve in aviation.

Highlights from Recent Years

• The 40th anniversary in 2024 featured everything from nimble T-6 Texans and P-40 Warhawks to the mighty Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy.
• History was made with the first airshow demonstration of the KC-46A Pegasus, a modern aerial refueling aircraft.
• Attendance remains sky-high (pun intended) - about 130,000 spectators filled the stands in 2024.
• Beyond the air, visitors enjoy static aircraft displays, educational exhibits, and family-friendly activities that make the event an all-day adventure.

More Than Airplanes: A Mission of Education

Wings Over Houston is not only entertainment, it’s a mission-driven event. Its goals include:

• Honoring military service and aviation heritage
• Preserving and restoring historic aircraft under the motto “Keep ’Em Flying”
• Providing scholarships, student workshops, and aviation career camps
• Supporting veterans, at-risk youth, and local nonprofit organizations

Through these initiatives, the show inspires future generations of aviators while uplifting the community.

Why It Matters to Pasadena

While Ellington Field is just outside Pasadena, the ripple effects are felt right here. Out-of-town visitors often book hotels in Pasadena, grab meals at our local restaurants, and shop in our stores. By supporting Wings Over Houston, we’re also supporting Pasadena’s hospitality and small businesses, making it a win-win for our community.

Mark Your Calendar

• When: October 18–19, 2025
• Where: Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base
• Featured Acts: The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds return to the skies, joined by rare vintage warbirds, including the only two airworthy B-29 Superfortresses in the world, named “Doc” and “FIFI”.
• Tickets: Get tickets here! Also, use the Visit Pasadena promo code PASA25 for $5 off any ticket! 

Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a unique weekend outing, Wings Over Houston is worth the trip. The thrills in the sky, the stories behind the aircraft, and the community spirit it sparks make it a tradition we’re proud to celebrate and support.

Because when our neighbors soar, so do we.