The Red Deer Regional Airshow returns this weekend to the Red Deer Regional Airport in Springbrook, Alberta, bringing the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and a full lineup of aerial thrills just a short drive from Innisfail. The three-day event runs from July 24 to 26, 2026, and marks a historic milestone as the Snowbirds celebrate their 55th anniversary and perform for one of the final times in the iconic CT-114 Tutor jets before the aircraft is retired.
The Snowbirds are slated to fly alongside the CF-18 Hornet Tactical Demonstration, the SkyHawks parachute team, a historic Harvard Mark IV, aerobatic pilot Melissa Burns, and a MiG-17 jet. Flying displays take place each afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m., with gates opening at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Friday’s Glow Night runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and features hot air balloon illuminations and a Flight Suit Disco.
On the ground, visitors can explore static aircraft displays, a Red Deer Auto Showcase car show, more than 25 food trucks, and beer gardens pouring a signature YQF lager from Alley Kat Brewing. A Kids Zone and an Aviation STEM Area offer hands-on activities, and performer autograph sessions give fans a chance to meet the teams.
The Town of Innisfail has highlighted the airshow on its community calendar, noting its appeal for Central Alberta families. The 2023 event drew over 25,000 people, and organizers are building on that success this year. Ticket prices are $40 for adults, $20 for youth aged 3 to 17, $35 for seniors 65 and older and veterans, and free for children under 3. Friday night admission is $20 for all age groups.
This year’s Snowbirds performances are especially significant. On May 19, 2026, Defence Minister David J. McGuinty confirmed the team will stand down indefinitely after the season, with the aging Tutor fleet to be replaced by the new CT-157 Siskin II turboprop in the early 2030s as part of a $9.4-billion Royal Canadian Air Force modernization. The Snowbirds are expected to return to the skies once the new aircraft is operational.
