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Quinte International Air Show Family Guide: Packing Tips & What to Expect

illustration of a canadian military airplane

QUINTE INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW FAMILY GUIDE

PACKING TIPS & WHAT TO EXPECT

Written by Cheyanne O’Driscoll

Read time: 2 min
a crowd of air show attendees watching the planes lining up on the runway

The Quinte International Air Show is taking place on June 29 and 30 at 8 Wing Trenton, just in time to celebrate 100 years of the Royal Canadian Air Force. It’s a great opportunity for you and the kids to hang out, see some amazing planes in action, and learn a bit about aviation.

There’s something really magical about experiencing an air show through the eyes of your children. As an adult, I can often forget how cool the giant Hercules really is or how mind-blowing it is to watch the Snowbirds flawlessly twist and turn around each other. Thankfully we’ve got kids to remind us!

I’m a local mom of three who’s been to plenty of air shows, having grown up a military brat, and I’ve got some no-fuss tips to ensure you all have a fantastic time. 

PACKING THE ESSENTIALS

You’ll want to pack light but smart. Here’s what to bring:

  • Sunscreen and hats to keep the sun at bay.
  • Water bottles to stay hydrated – it can get pretty hot out there. There will be water refill stations on site.
  • Ear protection because those planes can be REALLY loud to little ears especially.
  • Snacks to keep the munchies under control without waiting in lines. There will be a large variety of food vendors to choose from though so save some room!

You could also bring an umbrella or raincoats just in case the weather takes a turn. A few small toys or activity books can also keep the little ones entertained during quieter moments. If you’ve got young kiddos or bigger kids with feet that tire easily a wagon or camping chairs will give you an instant spot to rest.

crowds gather around a large military airplane on display at an air show
three canadian military planes performing in the sky in the air show

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

Check the Schedule to know what’s happening and when, especially the parts your kids are eager to see.

Coordinate transportation and plan your way there in advance. Limited parking is available and there are free shuttles coming from different locations. Check the show FAQs for more information.

Download the myQIAS2024 app when it becomes available on quinteairshow.ca.

Prep for fun and chat with your kids about the Air Force and the planes they’ll see to ramp up their excitement.

The Quinte International Air Show is a great family event, perfect for making lasting memories and sparking your kids’ curiosity about the world of aviation. 

It didn’t matter which Air Force base I was stationed at; Gander in Newfoundland, Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories or right here in Trenton. I ALWAYS knew when the Snowbirds were in town. Hearing them peel through the skies above you is a sound you instantly recognize. 

With a bit of prep, your family’s day at the air show will be more about fun and less about fuss. You can kick back, enjoy the shows, and learn something new together.

Visit quinteairshow.ca for tickets while they’re still available and follow them on Facebook for more updates.

two snowbird airplanes flying over the CFB Trenton air base, taken from an adjacent plane
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Let’s see what we got!

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The Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board is committed to acknowledging, appreciating and understanding the Indigenous peoples’ historic connection to this land and to raising awareness by building relationships in collaboration with Indigenous partners and communities. 

We recognize and acknowledge that we are living and working on the traditional territory of the Wendat, Mississauga, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee which includes the Kenhtè:ke Kanyen’kehá:ka (Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte) with whom we work in direct partnership with. 

This partnership focuses on the common goal of celebrating the region with the Kenhtè:ke Kanyen’kehá:ka who are equal partners within the organization and at the Board of Directors table contributing to the mandate and operations.

This mandate includes listening to, learning from, and collaborating with the Kenhtè:ke Kanyen’kehá:ka and actively incorporating their culture and heritage into the practice of responsible destination marketing and management of the region.

We understand that this land acknowledgement is only a small step towards the larger process of reparations and reconciliation.

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