Poster Showcases Aviation Heritage and the Spirit of Freedom

Just months after this year’s aerospace expo came to an end, SUN ‘n FUN organizers have decided on a final version for their 2026 event poster. The patriotic design pays tribute to the 250th anniversary of America while showcasing some of what visitors can expect as they celebrate ‘Red, White, and Blue at 52’.

The 2026 poster, revealed one year ahead of America’s semiquincentennial, showcases the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, P-51 Mustangs flown by Jack ACEs, airshow pilot RJ Gritter in his Decathlon, the Freedom Fox STOL aircraft, the F-18 Rhino Demo Team, and a vintage 1956 De Havilland Chipmunk from GhostWriter Airshows.

 A classic 1965 Ford F-100, once owned by SUN ‘n FUN founder Billy Henderson, appears in the front of the scene with two children gazing upward. This is meant to represent the next generation of aviation enthusiasts that we’ll hopefully see making their way to Lakeland in the coming years.

Additional patriotic visuals include skydivers, fireworks, and a large American flag. The poster ties into the theme “Red, White & Blue at 52,” commemorating SUN ‘n FUN’s 52nd year alongside the country’s milestone birthday.

The 2026 expo follows a record-breaking 2025 event, which drew over 200,000 attendees and featured major military demonstration teams including the Blue Angels, F-35A Demo Team, and the F-16C Viper Demo Team. The event has become Florida’s largest annual convention and a cornerstone of youth outreach, with thousands of students participating each year.

Tickets for SUN ‘n FUN 2026 go on sale in September, with proceeds supporting educational initiatives through the Aerospace Center for Excellence. It will be held from April 14 to 19 at Florida’s Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL).

FMI: www.flysnf.org