As the calendar flips to April, aviation enthusiasts of all ages are gearing up for a week at the second largest airshow in the United States. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo 2025 is set to kick off on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida.
The annual Florida Airshow and Fly-In, now in its 51st year, promises a top-notch lineup of some of the world’s best pilots and planes, featuring daily flight demonstrations. Educational opportunities, and family-friendly activities abound, cementing the event’s reputation as “Spring Break for Pilots” and Aviation’s Season Opener.
Held at the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus at Lakeland Linder International Airport, the six-day extravaganza runs from April 1st through Sunday, April 6,and is expected to draw over 200,000 visitors from across the nation and beyond. The event offers something for everyone—from seasoned pilots to wide-eyed kids dreaming of flight.
The festivities launch with a bang on opening night, featuring a concert headlined by country music star Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line fame, alongside Uncle Kracker, on the Warbird Ramp. Included with daily admission, this musical kickoff sets the tone for a week of high-flying excitement. Daily airshows from Tuesday through Sunday, running from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, will showcase breathtaking performances by military and civilian aviators, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, who will take to the skies on April 5 and 6. Other military demo favorites, the F35 Lightning II and F-16 demonstration teams will perform daily.
For those who prefer their aviation after dark, Wednesday and Saturday feature night airshows complete with fireworks, promising a spectacle that lights up the Florida sky. Beyond the aerobatics, the event features over 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest in aviation technology, ranging from cutting-edge aircraft to innovative gear, alongside hands-on workshops where attendees can hone their skills in building and maintenance. This year’s air show schedule can be found on the Sun’ N’ Fun website.
There’s plenty to see and do beyond the flightline. Visitors can wander through acres of aircraft displays, featuring everything from vintage warbirds to sleek jets and homebuilt planes, offering a tangible connection to aviation’s past and future. Sun N’ Fun is more than just another Florida airshow. For the younger crowd, the Family Fun Zone and Junior ACEs open house provide interactive STEM and aerospace experiences, sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of aviators. A Saturday morning hot air balloon launch adds a whimsical touch, while the STOL Invitational at Paradise City’s grass strip on select evenings showcases the precision and daring of short takeoff and landing pilots. Whether you’re an aspiring aviator or just love the roar of engines, the expo’s diverse offerings ensure no one leaves disappointed.
The economic ripple effect of SUN ‘n FUN on Lakeland and the surrounding region is nothing short of impressive. With an estimated event spend exceeding $31 million, the influx of visitors boosts local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to rental car agencies and retailers. The event’s status as Florida’s largest annual convention of any kind transforms this central Florida city into a bustling hub, with nearby towns like Winter Haven, Bartow, and Lake Wales also reaping the benefits as pilots fly into their municipal airports. Proceeds from the expo fuel the Aerospace Center for Excellence, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing STEM and aviation education, ensuring the event’s impact extends far beyond a single week.
Ticket prices remain accessible, making SUN ‘n FUN a welcoming destination for families and enthusiasts alike. Adults can snag a single-day pass for around $50, while a full week costs approximately $180. Youth aged 13 to 17 enter for $20 per day or $70 for the week, and children 12 and under get in free with an adult, a nod to the event’s commitment to fostering young talent. Florida residents enjoy special weekend rates, and discounts are available for licensed pilots, mechanics, military members, and select aviation organizations, though proof of status is required. For those seeking a premium experience, preferred airshow seating along the flightline offers perks like shade and free water for an additional fee. Tickets are easily purchased online through a new platform, streamlining the process for attendees near and far.
Out-of-state visitors and pilots play a starring role in SUN ‘n FUN’s vibrant tapestry. Each year, thousands converge on Lakeland from across the country, many flying their own planes into the busy airspace of Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL). Pilots flying in should check the latest event’s NOTAM , details special arrival procedures to manage the influx. Incoming pilots are advised to tune into ATIS on 118.025 for updates.
Camping under the wings of their aircraft remains a cherished tradition among visiting pilots , with weekly credentials starting at $318 and single-night options around $45, blending adventure with camaraderie. The diversity of attendees—hailing from all corners of the U.S. and beyond—creates a melting pot of stories and experiences, shared over coffee at the daily Airplanes & Coffee gatherings or during impromptu chats beside a gleaming Cessna.
This year’s theme, “Turn Up the Fun at 51,” captures the spirit of an event that’s grown from a modest 1974 fly-in to the world’s second-largest aerospace expo. Beyond the thrills, SUN ‘n FUN offers a chance to connect with a passionate community, whether through educational forums with industry experts or casual encounters with fellow enthusiasts.
For pilots, the expo is a rite of passage; for families, it’s a memory-making adventure; and for Lakeland, it’s a cornerstone of pride and prosperity. As April 1 approaches, Central Florida stands ready to welcome all who share a love of flight—young or old, novice or ace—to a week where the only limit is the horizon.
