Aviation Discovery Fest Dallas 2026 | Things to Do

1. Fly in a Historic Aircraft

Don't just see a warbird. Fly in one.

Aviation Discovery Fest offers opportunities to purchase rides aboard historic aircraft, giving passengers a chance to see the Dallas area from the air while experiencing the sound, feel, and perspective of vintage military aviation.

Aircraft rides require a separate ticket and availability varies by aircraft.

See Available Aircraft Rides

2. Meet WWII Living History Reenactors

History isn't confined to the aircraft at Aviation Discovery Fest. World War II living history reenactors help bring the people, uniforms, equipment, and experiences of the era to life throughout the event.

Visitors can talk with reenactors, explore their displays, and learn more about the experiences of the men and women who served during World War II. For kids studying WWII in school, it is an opportunity to encounter history in a completely different way than reading about it in a textbook.

3. Meet Military Veterans and Hear Their Stories

One of the most meaningful parts of Aviation Discovery Fest is the opportunity to meet military veterans and hear their stories firsthand.

Historic aircraft often have a very different meaning to the people who flew, maintained, supported, or served alongside them. Conversations with veterans help connect the machines on display with the people and experiences behind military aviation history.

With Aviation Discovery Fest taking place just days before Veterans Day, the weekend also provides families with an opportunity to learn about and honor military service together.

4. Bring Young Aviation Fans to the Aviation Discovery Zone

Have a kid who loves airplanes? Make time for the Aviation Discovery Zone, a hands-on area created for young aviation enthusiasts.

Kids can explore aviation and STEM through interactive activities that introduce concepts behind flight and show how science, technology, engineering, and math connect to aviation.

Schools can also participate in a free Education Day on Friday, November 6, making Aviation Discovery Fest a unique North Texas field trip opportunity for students and teachers.

Learn About Education Day

5. See Historic Warbirds Up Close

For aviation enthusiasts, this is the big one.

Aviation Discovery Fest brings together an impressive collection of historic military aircraft at Dallas Executive Airport. Visitors can walk the ramp and see bombers, fighters, transports, trainers, and other aircraft representing different chapters of aviation history.

The planned 2026 aircraft lineup includes some of the most recognizable warbirds flying today.

Unlike seeing an aircraft in a photograph or behind museum barriers, Aviation Discovery Fest lets visitors appreciate the size, details, sounds, and engineering of these machines up close.

Aircraft appearances and schedules are subject to change due to weather, maintenance, operational requirements, and other factors.

See the Latest Aircraft Lineup

6. Explore WWII Military Vehicles

The history continues on the ground with a collection of historic military vehicles.

See jeeps and other vehicles that helped move troops, commanders, equipment, and supplies during World War II. Some vehicles may also offer opportunities for visitors to ride or explore them during the event.

Together with the aircraft and living history displays, the vehicles help build a larger picture of how people and equipment worked together during wartime.

7. Enter to Win a Ride in a WWII-Era Stearman

Guests can enter for a chance to win a flight in a Stearman, one of America's best-known military training aircraft.

Thousands of U.S. military pilots trained in Stearman aircraft during the World War II era before advancing to more powerful military aircraft. The sweepstakes gives one visitor a chance to experience that history in the air.

Enter the Stearman Ride Sweepstakes

8. Climb Into a Historic Aircraft During a Cockpit Tour

Ever wondered what one of these aircraft looks like from the pilot's seat?

Select aircraft at Aviation Discovery Fest will offer cockpit tours for an additional fee, allowing visitors to climb aboard and see the controls, instruments, crew positions, and equipment up close.

For kids and adults who love airplanes, it is a rare opportunity to experience a historic aircraft from the inside rather than simply looking at it from the ramp.

9. See Classic Cars from the 1930s, '40s, and '50s

Aircraft aren't the only vintage machines coming to Aviation Discovery Fest.

The Classic Car Show will feature automobiles from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, providing another glimpse into the world surrounding the Greatest Generation.

Visitors can move from WWII-era aircraft and military vehicles to the automobiles Americans were driving at home, all during the same event.

10. Meet Cast Members from Jimmy

Aviation Discovery Fest will also welcome special guests connected with Jimmy, the new film about legendary actor and World War II aviator Jimmy Stewart.

Stewart was already an Oscar-winning Hollywood star when he entered military service during World War II. He became a bomber pilot and flew combat missions in Europe before later rising to the rank of brigadier general in the Air Force Reserve.

Jimmy premieres in theaters on November 6, and members of the film's cast are scheduled to appear at Aviation Discovery Fest to answer questions, discuss the making of the film, and explore the remarkable military aviation story behind one of America's most famous actors and aviators.

Learn More About Jimmy

When is Aviation Discovery Fest 2026?

Aviation Discovery Fest takes place Friday, November 6, and Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Dallas Executive Airport in Dallas, Texas. Friday hours are 9 a.m.–3 p.m. and Saturday hours are 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Is Aviation Discovery Fest a good activity for kids?

Yes. Aviation Discovery Fest includes the Aviation Discovery Zone with hands-on aviation and STEM activities, historic aircraft, cockpit tours, living history displays, military vehicles, and other experiences for young aviation fans.

Is admission free for veterans?

Military veterans receive free admission on Friday, November 6. Children and Commemorative Air Force Colonel members also receive free Friday admission.

What aircraft will be at Aviation Discovery Fest?

The planned 2026 lineup includes the B-29 FIFI, B-24 Diamond Lil, B-25 bombers, P-51 Mustang Gunfighter, AC-47 Spooky, TBM Avenger Sweet Louise, Stearman, AT-6 Texan, C-45 aircraft, and additional historic aircraft. Aircraft appearances are subject to change.

Can visitors ride in the historic aircraft?

Yes. Aircraft rides are available on select aircraft and require a separate ticket. Availability varies by aircraft and schedule.

Where is Aviation Discovery Fest?

Aviation Discovery Fest is held at Dallas Executive Airport in Dallas, Texas.

Is Aviation Discovery Fest a Veterans Day activity?

Aviation Discovery Fest takes place just before Veterans Day and includes opportunities to meet military veterans, explore military aviation history, see historic aircraft and vehicles, and learn about the experiences of those who served.