Mark your calendars for aviation’s season opener during the 49th Annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo from March 28 to April 3 in beautiful Lakeland, FL. Attendees are encouraged to use hashtag #SnF23 on social media while posting about the Expo. (More details will be posted as we get nearer to the event)
Getting to SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo
SUN ‘n FUN takes place on the south side of Lakeland Linder International Airport.
The event’s address is 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland, FL 33811, but we strongly suggest you follow signage for parking as you approach the site.
The SUN ‘n FUN Experience
Attending SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo has become more than just a rite of passage for generations of families. Those that have attended together share 49 years of stories that include camping under their plane’s wings in a tent, huddling together gazing at the night air shows, eating buttery ears of corn at the Corn Roast…and the list of memories go on and on.
Survival Gear
Attending an air show is an all-day adventure and here are the bare minimums you should bring along. Backpacks are permitted.
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Walking shoes – leave those cute sandals at home
- Earplugs and ear protection
- Hats, sunglasses and a poncho
- Comfortable, layered clothing
- Hand sanitizer wipes
- Fully charged mobile devices
Safety Realities
There’s a lot of excitement when attending an airshow the size of the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo. The reality is that the event is held on an active airport. Parents should take care to explain to their children how to behave and be safe around aircraft. There are spinning props, loud engines, moments that it’s difficult to hear, vehicles in motion, etc.
Pets and Airshows don’t mix. Leave the pets at home. For all the safety considerations of children, the concerns for pets are even higher. Don’t be that pet-parent whose dog panics when they hear the F22 Raptor and they think the world is coming to an end so they bolt. Don’t be cruel and burn your dog’s paw-pads casually walking among the planes on 125-degree plus asphalt tarmac.
Plan Your Day
Spend time reviewing the event website for the airshow schedule, workshop and forum schedules, evening entertainment, etc. Build in break times to sit in the (limited) shade, relax, rehydrate, enjoy a snack, and take a short nap. Plan indoor activities like the Exhibit Halls early in the day when it’s cooler.
Each day offers different activities. Refer to the Daily Schedule, or pick up a complimentary copy of the In-Flight Guide when entering the main gate.
Ticket Suggestions
Youth (11-17 years of age) are half-price of adults for most ticket options, and children 10 and younger are free. See all ticket options at flysnf.org.
The Expo is SUN ‘n FUN’s largest fundraiser for the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), a 25-acre, 11 building campus dedicated to aerospace and STEM education. Approximately 200,000 guests, exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors and performers are expected to attend. Proceeds from the event support numerous community activities in addition to Aerospace Center for Excellence.
