Visitors enter the 2024 Cold Lake Air Show through the massive U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy, one of the largest military transport aircraft in the world – Photo by Mike Marshall / The Courier News.
With the 2026 Cold Lake Air Show just around the corner, organizers are reminding visitors to make a plan before heading to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Cold Lake.
Thousands of spectators from across Canada and beyond are expected to attend this year’s event. While the Air Show website includes a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section, organizers have compiled answers to some of the questions they receive most often.
What should I bring with me to the Air Show?
Guests are encouraged to dress for the weather and come prepared for a full day outdoors. Since seating is not provided, bringing a folding or lawn chair is recommended.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages in a bag or soft-sided cooler smaller than two gallons. All bags and carried items will be subject to security screening upon entry.
Other recommended items include sunscreen, hats, hearing protection and handheld umbrellas. Large beach umbrellas, pop-up tents and oversized coolers are not permitted.
May I bring my pets with me to the Cold Lake Air Show?
No. Pets are not permitted on the Air Show grounds.
Organizers encourage visitors travelling from out of town to make arrangements with a trusted friend, neighbour or accredited kennel rather than leaving animals in parked vehicles.
Certified service animals with proper identification are welcome.
Will there be shuttles available for those with limited mobility to get from the parking areas to the entrance gates?
Guests displaying a valid disabled parking placard will have access to a limited number of accessible parking spaces located near the entrance gates.
For those requiring additional assistance, golf carts will be available throughout the parking areas on a first-come, first-served basis. While they are available to assist guests, they do not operate as a dedicated shuttle service, and wait times may vary depending on demand.
Can I come to the Air Show in an ATV?
Yes. Visitors travelling by ATV are welcome to do so, provided they ride safely and use appropriate trails. Parking will be available for ATVs.
I ordered my tickets, but didn’t receive them.
The Cold Lake Air Show does not manage ticket sales directly.
Anyone experiencing issues receiving their tickets should contact TicketPro Customer Service by email at info@ticketpro.ca or by calling 1-888-655-9090 for assistance.
Will the viewing area be open during the Air Show?
No.
The public viewing area at CFB Cold Lake closes at 6 p.m. on the Thursday before Air Show weekend and will remain closed throughout the event. The area is scheduled to reopen at 9 a.m. on the Monday following the Air Show.
Visitors are asked to respect all posted closures and barriers to help ensure the safety of both spectators and participants.
Organizers encourage everyone planning to attend the 2026 Cold Lake Air Show to review the full list of frequently asked questions before arriving. The FAQ section includes additional information on parking, transportation, accessibility, photography, prohibited items, ticketing and more.
The Cold Lake Air Show is pleased to be in partnership with our Media Sponsor, ColossoVision!
The preceding text was a paid endorsement for the 2026 Cold Lake Air Show.